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PHTA to consolidate NSPF and APSP training courses

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance board of directors made determinations on PHTA education structure and course format plans for the future. Recommendations were made to address duplicate courses and certifications that came as a result of the unification of The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals and the National Swimming Pool Foundation. Most changes will go into effect in 2021.

“As the industry grows and evolves, adjustments to education are necessary,” says Sabeena Hickman, PHTA president and CEO. “We are committed to providing robust and comprehensive education offerings that benefit all segments of the industry. We continue to work diligently to build upon the excellent courses people have come to know and expect from the organization.” 

 Education updates will be announced in the coming months. Cornerstone courses PPSO and CPO will coexist and will continue to meet state certification requirements for commercial pool operators, with classes held as scheduled for 2020. A new format will be launched in 2021 that will consist of two levels of certification under the CPO umbrella.

The board approved to sunset the Advanced Service Technician program. Through 2020 the AST course will be phased out and replaced with Certified Pool & Spa Service Technician (CST). Individuals who are currently AST certified are eligible to take the CST self-paced course and exam at no cost for one year after the official announcement phasing out AST. With more states recognizing CST certification for licensing, this allows students to be better positioned and in compliance with their state’s requirements.

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The NSPF Instructor Class will be fused with Train the Trainer in 2020. Aspiring instructors will go through a revamped PHTA Instructor Assessment School. 

“PHTA is a manifestation of strength in unity,” says Chris Curcio, PHTA board chairman. “One of the greatest benefits of the unification of APSP and NSPF is the overall enhancement of industry education. We’re putting the necessary elements in place to launch a revitalized educational platform, and I couldn’t be more excited for our industry.”

As course revisions are finalized, PHTA will reach out to certification holders about how they are benefited or affected by the adjustments.

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