News
National Water Safety Month Coalition Celebrates 20th Anniversary

(Overland Park, Ks.) – A National Coalition of water safety partners, including the American Red Cross, the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA), the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), and the World Waterpark Association (WWA), along with Governors in 45+ states, are working together to promote May as the 20th annual National Water Safety Month.
Since 2003, members of the Coalition have worked to raise awareness and highlight the importance of public education regarding safer practices for kids and adults when they are in and around water of all kinds. The event, celebrated every May by thousands of aquatics facilities, businesses, and professionals, provides educational programming, public service announcements, government proclamations, business promotions, and water safety-themed materials designed to help prevent water-related illnesses, injuries, and fatalities.
“The American Red Cross encourages families to make water safety a priority to build confidence in water, for life,” said William D. Ramos, PhD, member of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council. “Preventing unsupervised access to water, providing constant, active adult supervision in and around the water, and knowing how to swim are critical layers of protection to help prevent drowning.”
The National Water Safety Month campaign plays a foundational role in leading the conversation about how to keep families safer in the water. The initiative to strengthen water safety education has led to national media coverage, improved legislation, and critical advocacy efforts throughout the U.S.
“At NRPA, we are proud to support National Water Safety Month and recognize the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all people to learn to swim,” said Julie Boland, NRPA Vice President of Credentialing and Member Operations. “NRPA park and recreation professionals throughout the country provide aquatics at more than 70 percent of agencies in support of this goal.”
The Coalition supports water safety activities throughout the month and during swim season, including:
- International Water Safety Day
International Water Safety Day (May 15, 2023) is designed to help spread global awareness about drowning prevention and educate youth about becoming safer in and around water. May 15th is a day to share drowning awareness and water safety education by any means possible. - World’s Largest Swimming Lesson
Celebrating its 14th year of saving lives, the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL) (June 22, 2023) is a global event that includes tens of thousands of participants on six continents working to raise awareness about the fundamental importance of teaching children to swim. Aquatic facilities are encouraged to register as Host Locations during the month of May. - State Proclamations
In preparation for National Water Safety Month, the Coalition works to secure gubernatorial proclamations to draw attention to this issue at the state level. Annually, 45-50 state Governors proclaim May as National Water Safety Month to support this important work. Proclamations are added throughout the month. Look for your state’s proclamation here. - Safe Swimmer Pledge
Anyone can join the movement to reinforce the importance of water safety and become an advocate in the community. For example, the Safe Swimmer Pledge encourages children to practice safe swimming behaviors. - Social Media Conversations
The Coalition will share safety tips and resources across its social media channels throughout the month. Follow along on Twitter and Facebook, and join the #watersafetymonth #NWSM2023 conversations. Shareable content is also available through the National Drowning Prevention Alliance website’s Water Safety Season Tool Kit.
“The NDPA is thrilled to join the National Water Safety Month Coalition and support this crucial, life-saving work,” said Adam Katchmarchi, Ph.D., Executive Director, NDPA. “Our mission has always been to unite all stakeholders to collaborate behind a unified agenda focused on building awareness, advocacy, and education about water safety practices that reduce drowning. National Water Safety Month is a terrific platform to support those goals.”
“National Water Safety Month is a great tool for the pool, spa, and hot tub industry to continue the important conversation about best practices for water safety in every environment,” said Sabeena Hickman, CAE, President and CEO, PHTA. “PHTA is proud of the work the National Water Safety Coalition has accomplished and is committed to sharing these important messages to keep our children safe through swimming education.”
May marks the beginning of swim season as beaches, pools, waterparks, and community center pools begin to open and people begin to spend more time outdoors. The Coalition is determined to increase awareness about vital water safety practices to help keep children and their families safer around all kinds of water. Learning to swim and practicing safe behaviors are critical first steps.
“We’ve accomplished a great deal since we launched this initiative in 2003. National Water Safety Month is now a major platform that’s helped reach millions with important messaging about how to be water aware and the necessary layers of protection involved in keeping families safer around the water,” said Rick Root, President of the World Waterpark Association. “But we still have a long way to go because far too many parents and caregivers still don’t understand the risks. We’re grateful for the thousands of members of the aquatics industry that support NWSM by reaching out to their communities to help save lives by sharing these vital water safety messages.”
Parents, educators, and caregivers can find detailed information and free resources in support of National Water Safety Month at www.NationalWaterSafetyMonth.org.
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National Water Safety Month is made possible by the National Water Safety Coalition, led by the American Red Cross, the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, the National Recreation and Park Association, the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, and the World Waterpark Association. Since 2003, members of the Coalition have worked to raise awareness and promote water safety through educational programs, public service announcements, governmental proclamations, and easy-to-access water safety information and materials. To learn more, visit www.NationalWaterSafetyMonth.org.
News
Master Pools Guild Welcomes Red Rock Design Build as Newest Member

Arizona-based custom pool builder joins international network of industry professionals dedicated to excellence in design, construction, and collaboration.
RICHMOND, VA — October 23, 2026 — Master Pools Guild (MPG), an international network of distinguished custom swimming pool builders, is pleased to announce Red Rock Design Build of Chandler, Arizona, as its newest member. Led by longtime friends and business partners Rick Chafey and Brett Blauvelt, Red Rock Design Build specializes in custom swimming pools, landscape design, and complete outdoor living environments, bringing a team-oriented approach to creating exceptional spaces for its clients.
Red Rock Design Build has established itself through a commitment to quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and personalized service. The company’s team works closely with homeowners to create outdoor environments that seamlessly integrate swimming pools, landscaping, and functional living spaces.
With decades of combined experience in the pool and construction industries, Rick and Brett bring complementary expertise to the company. Rick’s extensive background in swimming pool construction and technical craftsmanship, combined with Brett’s experience in design, business management, and construction operations, provides a strong foundation for the Red Rock team.
“Rick and Brett have built a company that reflects the values we look for in our members,” said Teri Wiltshire, Executive Director of Master Pools Guild. “Their team’s dedication to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to creating exceptional outdoor environments align with the standards of our organization. We’re excited to welcome Red Rock Design Build to the Guild and look forward to the experience and perspective their entire team will bring to our network.”
For Red Rock Design Build, joining Master Pools Guild represents an opportunity to connect with other accomplished builders, exchange ideas, and continue developing the knowledge and resources that benefit both the company and its clients.
“At Red Rock, we’ve always believed that surrounding ourselves with knowledgeable, talented people makes us better at what we do,” said Rick Chafey, Co-Founder of Red Rock Design Build. “Joining Master Pools Guild allows our entire team to learn from other respected builders, share ideas, and continue raising the bar for the projects we create.”
“One of the things we’re most excited about is the opportunity to bring new ideas and perspectives back to our team,” added Brett Blauvelt, Co-Founder of Red Rock Design Build. “The relationships and shared knowledge within Master Pools Guild will help us continue growing as a company while delivering the level of quality and service our clients expect.”
As a member of Master Pools Guild, Red Rock Design Build joins an international network of independent pool builders committed to advancing the industry through education, innovation, and collaboration. Members regularly exchange knowledge on construction techniques, emerging technologies, design trends, and business practices.
The addition of Red Rock Design Build further strengthens MPG’s network of professionals who share a dedication to craftsmanship, continuous improvement, and the advancement of the swimming pool industry.
About Red Rock Design Build
Red Rock Design Build is a Chandler, Arizona-based company specializing in custom swimming pools, landscape design, and outdoor living environments. Led by business partners Rick Chafey and Brett Blauvelt, the company brings together a skilled team of professionals dedicated to creating thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. With an emphasis on craftsmanship, collaboration, and personalized service, Red Rock Design Build works closely with clients to transform their outdoor living visions into reality.
About Master Pools Guild
Master Pools Guild is an international network of independent custom swimming pool builders dedicated to excellence in design, construction, education, and collaboration. Through shared knowledge, industry resources, and professional relationships, MPG members work together to advance the art and business of swimming pool construction.
Media Contact:
Cheryl Lewis
Office (804) 657-4752
Manufacturer
Nidec Names New Pool/Spa Motors National Account Manager

ST. LOUIS, MO – October 21, 2026 – Nidec, a manufacturer of electric motors and drives, has announced the promotion of Atticus Edge to National Account Manager for the pool and spa industry.
In his new role, Edge is responsible for the Pool/Aftermarket Motor business, managing Nidec’s U.S. MOTORS® network of sales representatives and supporting key national pool supplier accounts. He works closely with customers and sales partners to drive growth and deliver strong support across the pool aftermarket channel.
Edge joined Nidec two years ago, serving in various engineering roles. Most recently, he supported the Variable speed and Neptune® motor platforms as a mechanical engineer, where he developed strong technical expertise and product knowledge.
“As pool pumps and motors become more complex, pool service professionals often need expert guidance in selecting and programming pump motors,” said Steve O’Brien, National Sales Director at Nidec. “Atticus is already proving himself in this role as he applies his education and knowledge to benefit pool service professionals and distributors.”
Variable speed motors are now required by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for most pool applications, including replacement motors. Nidec’s Neptune line of pool pump motors offers energy savings plus the ability to replace only the failed motor, rather than the entire pump.
With these technical advantages, Edge said the Neptune line has become a popular replacement motor for the pool industry. “We’re pleased to be able to offer service reps, and in turn their pool customers, these high-efficiency motors that meet or exceed DOE regulations.”
Prior to joining Nidec, Edge worked for Spec-Tech Industrial Electric as an assembly and testing tech. He also completed an internship at Neff Power. Edge holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Saint Louis University.
About Nidec
Nidec Corporation is the world’s No.1 comprehensive motor manufacturer. Based in Kyoto, Japan, Nidec Corporation offers motors ranging from micro-size to super large, as well as application products and services in IT, automation, home appliances, automobiles, commercial and industrial systems, environmental, energy, and many other businesses. Nidec is comprised of approximately 340 companies employing more than 110,000 people all over the world. Nidec.com
The U.S. MOTORS® brand of Nidec Motor Corporation encompasses a complete line of general and special purpose commercial and industrial motors from 1/3 horsepower through 4000 horsepower for a wide variety of applications. Since 1908, the U.S. MOTORS brand has stood for exceptional product reliability and performance. It is one of the oldest and most trusted brands in the motor industry and is recognized worldwide as the mark of leadership and technological innovation. USMotors.com
Industry News
Pentair Names Josh Cowley Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, Pentair Pool

London, United Kingdom – October 19, 2026 – Pentair plc (NYSE: PNR), a leader in helping the world sustainably move, improve and enjoy water, life’s most essential resource, today announced that it has named Josh Cowley as Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Pentair Pool, effective November 9, 2026. Mr. Crowley will report to De’Mon Wiggins, Executive Vice President and President, Pentair Flow, Water Solutions and Pool.
“Josh brings deep pool industry knowledge, a strong understanding of our customers and a proven ability to turn strategy into action,” said John L. Stauch, Pentair President and Chief Executive Officer. “His successful commercial and operating track record, coupled with his business acumen and leadership experience, will help build on the strength of our Pool business, enhance customer relationships and position Pentair Pool for long-term growth. We are pleased to welcome him to Pentair.”
Cowley brings more than 25 years of leadership experience and a successful track record of scaling businesses, building teams and strengthening channel partnerships. Most recently, he served as Chief Executive Officer of May Manufacturing, a leading hot tub and swim spa manufacturer, where he led the company through a significant phase of growth by establishing a customer centric culture with focused strategic priorities, expanding customer relationships, building a solid leadership team, and improved overall financial performance.
Prior to that, Cowley served as Chief Commercial Officer of Latham Group, the largest designer, manufacturer and marketer of in-ground residential swimming pools in North America, Australia and New Zealand, where he led global sales, customer service, product and channel management, and brand marketing. Earlier in his career, from 2005 to 2021, he held several senior leadership roles at Stanley Black & Decker, Inc., including President and General Manager of North America Retail Sales & Marketing. Cowley earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise and sport science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
About Pentair plc
At Pentair, we help the world sustainably move, improve, and enjoy water, life’s most essential resource. From our residential and commercial water solutions, to industrial water management and everything in between, Pentair is a core large cap value S&P 500 equity stock focused on smart, sustainable water solutions that help our planet and people thrive.
Pentair had revenue in 2025 of approximately $4.2 billion, and trades under the ticker symbol PNR. With approximately 9,000 global employees serving customers in more than 150 countries, we work to help improve lives and the environment around the world. To learn more, visit www.pentair.com.
PENTAIR CONTACTS:
Jeff Thompson
Investor Relations
Direct: 763-656-5527
Email: [email protected]
Rebecca Osborn
Corporate Communications
Direct: 763-656-5589
Email: [email protected]
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