Hunter Peterson, 26
Service manager
Royse City, Texas
In four years, Hunter Peterson has advanced from service technician to service manager at Patriot Pool and Spa. He began in May 2021 as a technician, learning the ins and outs of both residential and commercial pool care. Within a year, he was promoted to service supervisor and trainer, and by May 2024, he stepped into his current leadership role.
“This is a great trade to be in — challenging, hands-on and incredibly rewarding,” Peterson says. He values the relationships built along the way, with both customers and colleagues. “Those connections can last for years. I’m especially grateful for the supportive team I get to work with every day; they make the hard work worth it.”
During his rapid rise through the company, each role gave Peterson new perspective, and now, as service manager, he brings firsthand knowledge of what technicians face in the field. That experience has been key in shaping his leadership style.
One of his toughest challenges was shifting the culture within the service department. Peterson focused on details that empowered technicians and gave them confidence. His company introduced an online training program that prepares new hires for real-world scenarios before they take on their own routes. Field training and a strong support network followed, ensuring no one felt alone on the job. “Building a culture where the team works together and supports one another has been essential to our overall success,” he says.
Peterson is committed to the industry long term and hopes to grow into broader leadership responsibilities within Patriot Pool and Spa. “I want to play a larger role in shaping the culture, improving operations and creating opportunities for others to succeed,” he says. Whether mentoring future leaders or driving innovation, he sees himself as part of the industry’s next generation of changemakers.
He’s also passionate about elevating how service technicians are viewed. “Too often, service techs are seen as ‘just the pool guy,’ but the reality is — they are skilled professionals who wear many hats,” Peterson says. From hydraulics and water chemistry to electrical systems and customer service, he believes the profession deserves far more recognition and respect.
When he’s not working, Peterson enjoys riding his motorcycle, spending time at the lake and relaxing outdoors with family and friends.
