Celebrating the Next Generation – and Preparing for What’s Ahead
Every year, one of the issues I look forward to most is our 30 Under 40. This feature spotlights the incredible young leaders who are shaping the future of the pool industry. The class of 2025 is no exception — they are builders, service pros, innovators and entrepreneurs who embody the grit that keeps this trade moving forward.
Reading their stories, what stands out is not just their accomplishments — though there are plenty — but their perspective. They see service techs not as “just the pool guy” but as multiskilled professionals. They’re building companies around culture and training, raising the bar for communication and proving professionalism in our industry is more than possible — it’s essential. These are the people who will not only carry the torch but also raise it higher for those who follow.
Even as we celebrate today’s rising leaders, this issue is also about preparing for tomorrow. Articles throughout this edition challenge us to look ahead — to the offseason strategies that keep companies profitable and crews sharp, to performance reviews that don’t just evaluate but also develop talent, to automation tools that simplify lead nurturing without losing the personal touch.
As you read, I encourage you to celebrate the accomplishments of our 30 Under 40 recipients but also to see them as a mirror. How is your company preparing for the future? What systems are you using to keep your team strong, your operations resilient and your clients supported?
The future of this industry is bright, but it doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when we invest in people, refine our processes and embrace innovation while staying grounded in the relationships and craftsmanship that brought us here.
Here’s to celebrating the next generation — and to all of us committing to the work it takes to make 2026, and every year after, even better.
Best,
Megan Kendrick, publisher, CPO
