Kelly Collins, 39
Operations manager
Inverness, Florida
Kelly Collins didn’t just join the pool industry — she grew into it step by step. In 2019, she began helping her husband with invoicing and office work at Code 3 Pool Service and then moved into the field as a technician. That combination of office and field knowledge prepared her to be operations manager, where she oversees scheduling, vendor coordination, customer communication and team support. She still jumps in on fieldwork when needed, training new hires or covering routes, which keeps her connected to the day-to-day challenges her technicians face.
From working closely with vendors to swapping ideas at trade shows, Collins thrives on learning new ways to improve her skills and bring value to the company. “Industry shows are always a highlight for me — I love the energy, the chance to barter with new vendors and the opportunity to bring fresh ideas back to our team,” Collins says.
Whether training a new technician or helping a seasoned team member troubleshoot an issue, Collins values the “aha” moments when knowledge clicks into place. “Knowing I’ve helped someone gain confidence and build their skills is a big part of what motivates me,” she explains.
Of course, challenges come with the role — particularly when it involves customer service. Mistakes are inevitable, but Collins has learned to face them head-on. She believes honesty and transparency are the best tools for building trust. “Owning the issue, communicating clearly and offering a solution” has helped her turn difficult conversations into stronger long-term relationships with clients.
As she looks ahead, Collins wants to build a team that can run operations smoothly without heavy dependence on her, empowering others to lead and grow. Ultimately, she hopes to cement Code 3 Pool Service as the go-to company in her region, known for consistent, high-quality work.
She also hopes to help shift public perception of pool service work. “I want to move beyond the outdated ‘cabana boy’ image and highlight the expertise, skill and dedication it takes to do this work well,” Collins says. By raising the bar for professionalism, she believes the industry can gain the respect it deserves.
Away from work, Collins loves spending time outdoors. Hunting and fishing have been longtime hobbies that help her unwind. Collins also enjoys art as a creative outlet, and family trips to the beach.
