David Jones, 40

When David Jones was 11, a family friend hired him to do some gardening work.

“After about six months, we noticed that the pool maintenance jobs seemed much easier,” he says. “We contacted [a friend’s] uncle who was a pool cleaner and asked him to teach us the ropes. He took my friend along for a day, and soon after, we placed an ad in the Pennysaver and started acquiring pool service accounts.” 

Initially, Jones and his friend focused mainly on service and repairs, working together for about nine years before parting ways. He then joined a small company in Whittier, California, where he learned invaluable lessons both professionally and personally.

“During my 10 years there, we handled everything from remodels and service to repairs and commercial work,” he says. “Without attending any formal manufacturer classes, I taught myself everything I needed to know.”

Over the next few years Jones took on different jobs, and one pandemic later, he is now working as an implementation and training manager for Poolside Tech.

“I’ve been with them for [a short time], and it’s been the best company I’ve worked for,” he says. “Their commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement is inspiring. This is where I stand after 28 years in the industry.”

Jones’ favorite part about his job is the constant evolution.

 “I’ve seen the industry transform from small operations with just one pool guy to large companies managing thousands of pools nationwide, continuously striving to innovate with new procedures, chemical studies and regulations, contributing to its growing professionalism,” he says. “The pool industry is here to stay, and as the market realizes it’s not limited to certain equipment anymore, I believe we’re on the brink of another significant revolution.”

Jones says he is excited to see new technologies pop up and where Poolside Tech takes him. 

“I believe their innovative product will transform the industry’s perspective,” he says. “Alongside this journey, I aim to continue making my mark by teaching classes and educating newcomers, helping the industry evolve. Having taught tens of thousands of pool professionals, I would be honored to continue this work.”