Industry News
Pool Magazine Profiles: Kevin Woodhurst
For over 30 years, Kevin Woodhurst has been leaving an indelible mark on the pool industry, crafting awe-inspiring aquatic designs that have captured the hearts of countless clients. With a wealth of experience under his belt, Kevin has been directly and indirectly responsible for the design and construction of thousands of new swimming pool projects and remodels, earning him a well-deserved reputation as a visionary pool designer.
From the very outset of his career, Kevin immersed himself in every aspect of the pool business, donning various hats and acquiring an unparalleled understanding of the industry. His journey has taken him through every role imaginable, allowing him to amass a comprehensive knowledge of pool design, construction, and management. As a result, he stands tall among the industry’s experts, armed with insights that can only be garnered through years of hands-on experience.
Today, Woodhurst is a Design Consultant for Claffey Pools, one of the most prominent and highly regarded pool construction firms in the nation, where he continues to push the boundaries of contemporary pool design and construction. His multifaceted knowledge and hands-on experience in various aspects of the pool business make him an invaluable asset to the company.
Recently, we had the opportunity to chat with Woodhurst on the Pool Magazine podcast. We discussed how he got his start in the pool industry and why he’s still passionate about designing pools after three decades in the game.
PM (Pool Magazine): We were hoping that you could talk about your background a bit and discuss how you first got started in the industry.
KW (Kevin Woodhurst): I fell into the industry and I kind of like to use that as an example of what happens to designers. One of the things that I say pretty regularly is you can check in any time, but you can never check out.
About 30 years ago, I purchased a home and decided that we needed to have a pool and reached out to a few pool builders in Phoenix, and lo and behold, I landed somewhere and that started it all. I had a pretty extensive construction background and an extensive mechanical background while serving in the military for about 13 years. Furthermore, I spent a lot of years drawing and just designing things, so it really came pretty natural to join the industry.
PM: We saw you mentioned once that working in the pool industry has enabled you to build a career that really reflects your truest self. Can you share what initially drew you into this industry and why you stayed passionate about it over the years?
KW: I think a big part of it is there’s a certain build-up and excitement in meeting with potential clients and helping these people visualize not only verbally, but in some sort of media, some sort of format.
Years ago, when I first started, we used a pencil and paper, onion paper, and sat at people’s dining room tables designing projects. It’s a little fascinating to me that we were able to sell pools that way because the modern technology now is so good and there are so many options for it that it seems so weird that people bought pools that way. But, yeah, it’s been a fun experience watching this industry grow and mature from what it was.
PM: You have a diverse background in design and construction and project management. How was your experience in these areas influenced your approach to designing pools?
KW: I had some good mentors along the way and one of them very early on convinced me that it was important to really apply myself to the trade and to the craft. He encouraged me to go through the certification programs and get actively involved with the industry. That’s been a big part of it.
I enjoy engaging with the industry. Whether or not it was the trade shows or the associations. I had some good experiences with NESPA very early on and had some influences from some of the “godfathers of the industry” that are no longer with us, like Al Rizzo and John Romano, both of whom were legends in the pool industry.
Certainly, that would be my suggestion to anybody that’s new in the industry – to get out there and meet some of these people. To find a mentor and the guys that are shaking it up and making it happen out there. There are a lot of truly good guys who are going to share. They want to increase the knowledge base out there and want to see our industry continue to grow and mature.
PM: Can you tell us a little bit about how collaboration has helped shape your career and the benefits it’s brought to the design and construction process you employ today?
KW: I’ve spent a lot of time out in the field working with the trades and really understanding what they were doing. I think part of that is I just have this engineer’s mindset where I need to know how stuff works before I can design it and ultimately be able to explain it in a way that homeowners can understand.
We all have to remember, they just see pretty pictures. They don’t understand what’s going on in the ground, under the ground, the piping, the structural aspects of pools, how turnover works and how filtration works, and how all these mechanical systems ultimately function.
PM: You charge for design services rather than using them solely as a sales tool. What led you to make this shift and how do you communicate the value of your design work to clients?
KW: I’ll tell you, it was a hard transition. I only say that because, at least in the market that I was in, so many people said that it was just impossible. No one’s going to pay for plans. But the reality is there are people that will.
You’ve got to be able to pick and choose who your clients are and learn when to be okay with not getting a particular job. I think people that really understand the complexity of swimming pools understand that it is a major investment in the property. They’ll pay for plans. But at the same time, you’ve got to be able to produce a set of plans that they can look at and go, well, that was worth the money.
For those out there that have gone through a lot of the training, whether it’s through Watershapes University or the Genesis program or any of the associations, you have to value your time before you can expect anyone else to.
PM: How does being selective with the projects that you take on contribute to a better client experience and outcome?
KW: Well, you have to know your limits. You have to know what you’re capable of. I find that to be a very valued trait of someone is knowing when a job is too big to tackle on their own.
Knowing your limitations is a big part of it. But also consider, there are plenty of other people out there in the industry that can help you. You may pay for their time, but that’s just part of that learning process many years ago. Almost 20 years ago, I took on a million-dollar project, and we ended up doing a cost plus on it because it just didn’t make sense for me to put us in that sort of position.
I got some help from within the industry on that project. Building out the hydraulics, et cetera. But knowing your limitations is a really good thing and it just sets a bar for you and a point of reference. ‘Okay, here’s where I’m at and I want to continue to get better, so I can move forward and get to do some of those bigger projects.’ There’s nothing wrong with that.
PM: During the construction process, how do you ensure that your clients are well-informed about the ins and outs of pool ownership and what that process is going to be like?
KW: It’s a lot of information for a homeowner to try to digest. I think to some degree you’ve got to be able to pare your presentation back to the mindset or the level of knowledge that they do have.
Meeting with a homeowner in their space on their property and spending time asking questions is going to give you a little bit of background of what they’re looking for. It’s not a canned speech for everybody. It’s just a process to understand where they’re at, where they’re coming from because you kind of have to meet them there; and then modify your presentation and your information to digestible pieces that they can comprehend along the way.
PM: Looking back on your own career, what has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being a professional pool design consultant?
KW: Well, I still love it. I’ve been involved in the design and construction of thousands of pool projects. I just still love meeting people and seeing the excitement, especially on a young family with kids and you can see the excitement in their faces over the probability of having a swimming pool in the backyard. When you can make the connection with people where they get really engaged with the process, that’s a lot of fun.
Of course, I get excited when I go to a multimillion-dollar home and we’re looking at a very high-end, very exotic swimming pool. But most of the satisfaction really comes from taking that design and taking it from conception to completion.
I have a project going on right now out in Possum Kingdom, which is a big lake here in Texas that is a pretty awesome job. It’s a big vanishing edge pool near a cliff and it’s just that kind of stuff that gets exciting.
I’ve spent half my adult life now in the pool industry, and it’s kind of weird when I think back on it, because I’ll be 61 this year and, man, the years fly by. It’s fun. It has definitely had its moments, but when all is said and done – after three decades, it’s been really good.
Listen to our entire conversation with Kevin Woodhurst on the Pool Magazine podcast.
SPS’s Recent Acquisition of Pool Troopers Accelerates Company’s Investment in Scaled Infrastructure with ServiceTitan Powering Over 30 Branch Locations Across Five States and Standardizing Operations across the Service Cycle
LOS ANGELES – March 17, 2026— ServiceTitan (Nasdaq: TTAN), the software platform that powers the trades, today announced that SPS PoolCare, the largest residential swimming pool services platform in the United States, is standardizing their 30+ branch locations across five states on the ServiceTitan platform. By unifying their family of brands on ServiceTitan, SPS will leverage a single, enterprise-grade system to unify its vast operations, accelerate its high-velocity acquisition strategy, and scale its platform.
“SPS is demonstrating how purpose-built technology can transform a traditionally fragmented industry,” said Connor Theilmann, Chief Business Officer of ServiceTitan. “Their leadership team has made a deliberate investment in enterprise infrastructure, and we’re proud to support their continued growth. Standardizing on ServiceTitan will allow SPS to meet the needs of a large, multi-location operation, with Fraser Ramseyer, Storr Group, and the SPS leadership team making this one of the most seamless large-scale integrations we’ve ever seen.”
The move reflects SPS PoolCare’s continued investment in enterprise-grade infrastructure, as it advances its position as the dominant market leader in a highly fragmented industry. Founded in 2021 and backed by Storr Group, an investment firm that builds and scales industry-leading platforms, SPS PoolCare operates across Texas, Florida, Arizona, Nevada, and Georgia, where it employs more than 1,000 team members and is on track to perform more than two million weekly recurring pool services in 2026. ServiceTitan’s cloud-based platform serves as SPS PoolCare’s technology backbone, enabling SPS to manage complexity across geography, workforce scale, and service frequency.
“We’ve worked closely with the ServiceTitan team for several years, and this decision reflects the trust and alignment we’ve built as long-term partners,” said Lance Martin, CEO and COO of SPS PoolCare. “Our objective has always been to build a durable platform that enables our team to deliver exceptional service to our customers. Standardizing on ServiceTitan gives us the operational visibility, integration speed, and performance discipline required to scale responsibly and create long-term value.”
Ranked #1 on Pool and Spa News Top 50 Service list, SPS continues to solidify its position as the industry leader, driven by the company’s ability to pair high-velocity revenue growth with a deep commitment to staff training and retention, active industry leadership, and an early adopter of innovative technology within the pool service space. SPS PoolCare is dedicated to the communities it serves, ensuring that its national scale translates into a positive local impact across its entire service footprint.
“From inception, our thesis at Storr Group has been to build the pool industry’s first scaled category-defining operating platform,” Fraser Ramseyer, CEO of Storr Group and Founder of SPS PoolCare. “Technology is not ancillary to that vision – it is foundational. ServiceTitan provides the infrastructure necessary to integrate acquisitions efficiently, drive operational consistency, and support disciplined expansion.”
SPS PoolCare’s focus on being the employer-of-choice is supported by ServiceTitan’s mobile-first capabilities, which empower their over 1,000 staff team members with the tools they need to succeed in the field.
ServiceTitan continues to invest in purpose-built technology for the pool industry, offering features like route optimization, automated chemical tracking, and integrated project management for renovations. By providing real-time visibility into multi-location operations, ServiceTitan enables enterprise-scale businesses like SPS PoolCare to make data-driven decisions that fuel organic growth.
About ServiceTitan ServiceTitan is the software platform that powers trades businesses. The company’s cloud-based, end-to-end solution gives contractors the tools they need to run and grow their business, manage their back office, and provide a stellar customer experience. By bringing an integrated SaaS platform to an industry historically underserved by technology, ServiceTitan is equipping tradespeople with the technology they need to keep the world running.
About SPS PoolCare
As the #1 swimming pool services company in the United States, SPS PoolCare is on track to perform over 2,000,000 weekly recurring pool services in 2026 and employs more than 1,000 staff across five states. Backed by Storr Group, the company is focused on growing its family of brands across the Sun Belt, as it continues to make owning a pool a joy. SPS PoolCare is committed to creating a world-class service experience for its customers and being an employer-of-choice for its team members. Read more at spspoolcare.com.
About Storr Group
Storr Group is an operationally focused lower-middle-market private equity firm that backs, builds, and scales industry-leading platforms. With a rich background in business building, Storr combines world-class operators with strategic M&A, deep integration, and sophisticated technology to drive sustainable growth and long-term value. To partner today, visit storrgroup.com.
Press Contact
Max Wertheimer
ServiceTitan, Inc.
© 2026 ServiceTitan. All rights reserved. ServiceTitan, the ServiceTitan logo, and all ServiceTitan product and service names mentioned herein are registered trademarks or unregistered trademarks of ServiceTitan, Inc. in the United States and other countries. Other brand names and marks mentioned herein are for identification purposes only and may be the trademarks of their respective holder(s).
Celebrating the long-standing industry leaders whose dedication, vision,
and service-first mindset have shaped the future of the aquatics industry.
The Pentair Pool Pro Awards shine a spotlight on pool professionals who elevate the
standard of excellence — those who champion safety, embrace innovation, and support
the next generation of industry talent. Among this year’s honorees, the Lifetime
Achievement Award holds special significance. It recognizes individuals whose years of
service, leadership, and impact have left lasting imprints on their teams, their customers,
and the pool community at large.
The 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award winners exemplify what it means to lead with
purpose. Their stories reflect a shared commitment to uplifting others, advancing the
industry, and showing what’s possible through hard work, humility, and a dedication to
doing things the right way.
Lifetime Achievement Award Winner: Shannon Jones
Owner, Graves Pools and Spas | Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
For Shannon Jones, the pool industry is more than a career — it’s a legacy. Celebrating 50
years in business, Graves Pools and Spas has been family-run for generations, and Jones is
proud to continue the mission her grandfather began… And share it with all three of her
children, who are also involved in the business. Early in her leadership journey, she created
a personal mission statement that still guides her today: to make a positive difference in
every life she meets.
That philosophy is woven through her business. Guided by servant leadership, Jones
focuses first on caring for her team, trusting that empowered employees deliver
exceptional experiences for customers. “The more I take care of them,” she says, “the more
they feel fulfilled, and the more they care for others.” Many members of her management
team have been with the company for 16, 18, even 25 years, a testament to her example-driven approach.
Jones’ commitment to excellence shows up in everyday actions, from celebrating safe
driving with the company’s “Golden Steering Wheel” award, to openly acknowledging and
correcting mistakes as part of a culture rooted in honesty. And her impact extends beyond
the business. Graves Pools and Spas supports swim education across three local YMCA chapters, providing equipment and services free of charge and hosting swim lessons in the
company’s pools. “If we save one child from drowning,” she says, “it would be worth
everything we give.”
As automation and A.I. reshape the industry, Jones is focused on bringing modern tools to
both residential and commercial customers, helping her community stay ahead of the
curve. And with all three of her children now part of the company, the future feels bright.
“Our opportunities are limitless,” she says. “And the more we grow, the more positive
differences we get to make. I’m honored to be recognized with this award, but having the
ability to make a difference in the world through my company, I’ve already won big time.”
Lifetime Achievement Award Winner: Sean Johnson
Executive Vice President, Field Services, Amenity Pool Services | New York City, NY
For Sean Johnson, the pool industry became a calling long before it became a career.
Growing up in New York City, Johnson didn’t learn to swim until he was a teenager, but he
was hooked from the moment he did. That first experience sparked a passion for aquatics
and lifeguarding that eventually led him to a career path, where he rose from an entry-level
role to leading an entire office by age 20.
Johnson’s lifelong dedication is rooted in helping people build meaningful careers. Whether
mentoring young lifeguards, developing leaders, or promoting from within, he has always
believed the strongest customer relationships start with strong teams. Throughout his
career with The Amenity Collective, a leader in aquatics, fitness, and recreation solutions,
Sean has been instrumental in the growth of its aquatics platform, including American Pool
and Amenity Pool Services, while mentoring field teams and building operational depth and
process across the organization. Under his leadership, his New York office grew from 40
commercial customers to more than 300, maintaining one of the highest customer
retention rates in the region.
His commitment to going above and beyond is perhaps best illustrated through his work
with Erickson Senior Living. Tasked with automating pools across dozens of properties,
Johnson personally visited every location — traveling more than 200 nights over three years
— to install systems, build relationships, and ensure residents enjoyed safe, perfectly
balanced pools. “It was one of the few things I got exactly right in my life,” he says, laughing.
“I made real personal friends along the way.”
Johnson also contributes beyond the industry, giving his time to Boy Scouts of America by
restoring trail systems, writing hiking guides, and continuing to serve as a scout leader. He’s
also a proud member of his local high school’s board.
Winning the Lifetime Achievement Award, he says, feels deeply personal. “I’ve worked in
this business my whole life,” Johnson shares. “To be recognized like this… it means
everything to me. I hope it shows young people that the pool industry is a real career —
something you can grow in, lead in, and truly be proud of. And beyond that, it’s just plain
fun!”
Celebrating All the 2025 Pentair Pool Pro Award Winners
In addition to the Lifetime Achievement honorees, Pentair recognized winners across
multiple categories, including Premier Pool Pro, Unsung Hero, Safety Advocate, and
Advancing Automation. Visit www.pentair.com/en-us/pool-spa/pool-pro-awards to meet
all the remarkable individuals shaping the future of pools one customer at a time.
Landmark Aquatic is pleased to announce the appointment of Mick Hoeflinger as Vice President of Field Services. Mick brings a proven track record of driving operational excellence and sustainable growth across service-based organizations. Throughout his career, he has led initiatives that strengthened service agreement performance, supported successful acquisitions, and expanded revenue and margins. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Mick works closely with technical field teams and line managers to elevate field-level execution, improve customer experiences, and deliver measurable performance gains that position organizations for long-term success.
Mick brings more than 15 years of service leadership experience across multiple skilled trades, including plumbing, HVAC, and compressed air systems. He also served 20 years in the Marine Corps, including eight years on active duty in construction and general engineering related roles, where he developed a disciplined, mission-driven approach to leadership and operations. He holds an MBA from Concordia University Wisconsin and will play a key role in advancing Landmark Aquatic’s operational strength, service excellence, and continued growth. Mick can be reached at [email protected]
Download the NEW Pool Magazine App
Sponsored Advertisement
New Poolsafe Removable Mesh Safety Fences available in 4 colors
2026 Coverings Installation & Design Award Winners Announced
Best Booth Awards Announced at Coverings 2026
Beatbot Unveils iF DESIGN AWARD 2026 Winner Sora 30 along with New Sora 10 for Effortless Spring Cleaning
PoolDial Launches Modern Pool Service Software with Built-In AI Phone Answering
Pentair Pool Raises More Than $80,000 Through Nationwide Polar Plunge Fundraising Effort in Celebration of its Official Swimming Sponsorship of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games
Franklin Electric Promotes Bryan Duffy to Lead Industrial Business Unit
Dave Penton – Builder, Mentor, Professor
Nidec/U.S. MOTORS Announces Two Senior Staff Promotions
Trex Honored For Outstanding Innovation And Sustainability Impact
Becoming a Pool Builder, A Freshman Pool Companies Perspective
Industry Leader Superior Wellness Honored at UK Pool & Spa Awards 2024
$5,000 Dr. R. Neil Lowry Grant Awarded
Fluidra Launches €20 Million Venture Capital Fund – Fluidra Ventures
Sponsored Advertisement
Sponsored Advertisement-
Pool News3 weeks agoRemembering Guy Wood: A Pool Builder Who Elevated the Craft
-
Pool News4 weeks agoStep Into Swim Is Turning Industry Giving Into Life-Saving Impact
-
Industry News3 weeks agoRB Retail & Service Solutions Launches Dealer Marketing Services Program
-
Pool News4 weeks agoPentair Rings the Opening Bell at the New York Stock Exchange
-
Industry News4 weeks agoSOAKE POOLS ANNOUNCES FOUR NEW HIRES
-
Industry News4 weeks agoHonoring the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Pool Pro Award Winners With Pentair Pool
-
News1 week agoPentair Pool Raises More Than $80,000 Through Nationwide Polar Plunge Fundraising Effort in Celebration of its Official Swimming Sponsorship of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games
-
News2 weeks agoMOVA Expands Its Premium Outdoor Robotic Home Care Solutions with LiDAX Ultra 3000 AWD Lawnmower and Rover X10 Pool Cleaner