Power Women: Kelly Collins

Like many women who find themselves in leadership roles in aquatics, Kelly Collins started in the industry alongside her husband and the company he built.

Code 3 Pool Service was founded in 2003, and for years, Collins supported the business behind the scenes while working in business administration. She helped with invoicing and office tasks, gaining insight into what it takes to keep a service company running smoothly. But in 2020, she officially stepped into the pool industry full time, bringing her professional background to the day-to-day operations of the business.

“This experience taught me the importance of creating a company that not only delivers excellent service but also provides growth opportunities for employees, helping them succeed alongside the business,” she says.

As operations manager, Collins oversees scheduling, customer communication, vendor coordination and team support. She also stays connected to field operations, occasionally stepping in to train new technicians or fill gaps. 

“My favorite part of working in this industry is building relationships, especially with vendors and other professionals,” she shares. “I enjoy networking, learning new ways to improve my skills and staying up to date with the latest tools and products.”

For Collins, that sense of connection extends beyond Code 3. She credits her growth to mentorship, peer support and the industry community.

“Online tech groups like the Skimmer community and local events are invaluable for learning, networking and staying connected to trends that help keep our company strong,” she says.

She also emphasizes the importance of trust and the balance required to lead with openness while maintaining professionalism.

“Maintaining semitransparency [with clients and employees] — being open when possible but knowing what not to share — builds trust, which strengthens our company and supports long-term growth,” she says.

Collins has learned that some of the toughest moments in pool service don’t come from the work itself, but from navigating customer expectations when problems arise. 

“One significant challenge is dealing with customer disputes, often related to equipment failures caused by natural wear, Florida sunshine or chemical exposure,” she explains. “Some customers attempt to shift blame or gain unnecessary replacements, which impacts profit.”

Her approach is steady and solutions-focused: reviewing service history, assessing equipment age and finding a path forward that supports the customer and the company.

“I follow the principle of ‘Do unto others as you would want done to you,’ ” Collins says. 

Collins is also proud to be part of a broader shift happening in the pool industry, one that continues to bring more professionalism and fresh perspectives into the field.

Women entering the industry, she says, should approach it with respect, curiosity and a willingness to learn. “Keep an open mind and respect what already works,” Collins advises. “Women should add their personal touch without bulldozing existing systems.”

Looking ahead, Collins remains focused on building a company that’s strong because of the people behind it.

“As my career progresses, my goal is to build a team that can confidently run the day-to-day operations with minimal dependence on me,” she says. “I want to empower others to lead, grow and take ownership of their roles.”

Kelly’s Toolbox

A must-have tool: My backpack is like a mobile command center: chemical testers, business cards, phone, purse, important documents like quotes, pens, markers for labeling equipment, rags, gloves, extra socks (because wet feet are the worst), water and snacks.

Best on-the-job time-saving tip: Using service software has been a game-changer. We log photos — which are often more valuable than words — to help build a clear history of each pool and its equipment. Our service app, Skimmer, streamlines communication, documentation and internal notes.

A habit that helps you reset: My daughter is in competitive dance, and I have a great group of dance moms who feel like my support system. We unplug from work by sharing our days — we even joke that it’s our group therapy. 

A mentor or peer who shaped how you work: There have been a few men who took real pride in pool service and shared their knowledge with anyone willing to learn. I also have a close dance-mom friend who owns her own business. She helps keep me grounded and focused on what I’ve already accomplished instead of only what’s still ahead.  

Go-to caffeine order: Hot coffee from home with a splash of oat creamer. I’m my own best barista.

Music to get you through the day: Controlled chaos — a mix of worship music, ’80s rock, country, hip-hop, alternative and even some movie soundtracks. Whatever it takes to get me out of my own head and through the day.