Mallory Bjekich-Wachowski, 36

Mallory Bjekich-Wachowski, 36

Mallory Bjekich-Wachowski’s career began as a summer job at DesRochers Backyard Pools & Spas. This experience inspired her to pivot from her original dream of becoming an educator. She pursued a degree in sales and sales management while simultaneously working her way up from retail sales associate to managing multiple stores over the course of 16 years.

In 2022, Bjekich-Wachowski started her company, Toolbox for Excellence, with fellow industry professional Jane Merritt, combining her pool industry background with her love of education. She also works at All Seasons Pools & Spas in Orland Park, Illinois, as a training and business development manager.

One of Bjekich-Wachowski’s favorite aspects of working in the pool industry is the continuous learning opportunities. The industry’s ever-evolving nature offers a daily education in product knowledge, business acumen, leadership skills and more. Connecting with customers or team members compels her to do all she can to set them up for success.

“Helping dealers reach their potential through training and coaching is truly the foundation of Toolbox for Excellence,” she says.

Her experiences have shown Bjekich-Wachowski the power of training and networking.

“I realized I was nothing without learning from others,” she explains. “I think we can all remember we have something to learn from others.”

Her biggest lesson is that investing in one’s team and creating an excellent company culture are essential to thrive. “The highlight of my career has been watching my employees grow, learn and then move forward in their careers, whether that was with me or to their dream jobs,” she says.