Trese Huss, 39
Sales coordinator
Tinley Park, Illinois
For Trese Huss, the pool industry is family history. Her father founded Pool Care Specialists in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, in 1984, and by 2005 she was working alongside him. Over the years, she held nearly every job in the business, from riding along with service crews and working in the retail store to overseeing scheduling, billing and operations as service manager. That experience gave her a 360-degree view of how the industry works and the confidence to build her path forward.
In 2021, Huss returned to the industry after a brief hiatus, joining Blithe Sales as sales coordinator. There, she gained a new perspective on the manufacturing and distribution side of the business, deepening her understanding of product lifecycles and dealer support. Following Blithe’s acquisition by Mullarkey Associates in January 2025, she has continued in the same role, coordinating sales efforts, marketing initiatives, trainings and trade shows for a wide network of manufacturer reps and partners. She also serves as secretary of the Penn-Jersey Pool & Spa Association and chair of its commercial committee, giving back to the industry that helped shape her.
“The pool and spa world may seem large, but it truly feels like a small, close-knit community,” Huss says. From trade shows and educational events to casual connections across busy seasons, she thrives on the camaraderie. She especially values her involvement with Women in the Industry, a group dedicated to supporting and empowering women in the pool and spa industry. “I love seeing women support women and come together for the greater good,” she says.
Huss enjoys blending her professional expertise with her certification as a health and life coach. As a speaker at industry events, she has led sessions on boundaries, work-life balance, self-care and mental health. “Being able to support others beyond products and sales — to truly connect and make a difference — is something I’m incredibly proud of,” she says.
Her career has not been without challenges. Returning after time away left Huss feeling “behind” on technology and industry shifts, but support from mentors like Clint Blithe and her own commitment and grace helped her regain her footing. “By staying curious and open, I was able to turn what once felt like a setback into a powerful opportunity for growth,” she explains.
Looking ahead, Huss hopes to continue speaking publicly, growing her personal brand as a trusted resource for both product knowledge and professional development. She also wants to help Mullarkey Associates become one of the most respected rep groups in the industry while inspiring the next generation to see pools and spas as a legitimate and rewarding career path.
On a personal level, Huss is proud of her recovery journey, celebrating eight years clean in 2025. Health and wellness remain central to her life, from working out and practicing meditation and prayer to reading personal development books. She also enjoys time outdoors with her husband and children — whether it’s a quiet walk in nature or a noisy family adventure.
