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Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Announces 2022 Scholarship And Fellowship Recipients

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Scholarship from PHTA

(Alexandria, Va.) – The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) is pleased to announce the five recipients of the 2022 PHTA Fellowship and PHTA Scholarship Programs: Graham Lamb, Emily Broom, Colton Morris, Jason Marsh, and Meghan Partrick.

The PHTA Fellowship Program exists to encourage and support graduate students and post-doctoral fellows who focus research in areas associated with water-treated aquatic venues. Graham Lamb is the recipient of a $2,000 Board Fellowship. He is pursuing a Master of Science in Civil Engineering at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Lamb has been involved in two research studies: regenerative media filter and how effectively it removes Cryptosporidium from recreational water; and measuring parameters such as chlorine, pH, and alkalinity at Charlotte-area aquatic venues.

“We were so impressed with Lamb’s research,” says Sabeena Hickman, CAE, President and CEO of PHTA. “PHTA’s core purpose is to promote safe and healthy pool and hot tub environments, and the studies that Lamb has conducted tie into that perfectly. His graduate-level work will lead to real-world impacts on recreational water quality and improve bathers’ health and enjoyment of aquatic facilities.”

The PHTA Scholarship Program was founded to honor public swimming pool or spa operators who have pursued further education to better protect public health. To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must be a certified pool professional or an immediate family member and must submit an application package for the PHTA Board to review. This year’s application asked students to write an essay answering the question: If you had a $100,000 budget, how would you spend that money to positively affect unintentional drownings?

Emily Broom, who attends the University of Central Florida, and Colton Morris, who attends Arkansas Tech University, both received $2,000 Board Scholarships. Broom is the daughter of a PHTA CPO Instructor, and Morris recently earned his CPO certification. Broom’s essay focused on raising awareness through learn-to-swim and drowning prevention organizations, as well as highlighting the need for specialized swim safety education for children with autism, who are even more at risk of drowning. Morris’s essay explained how swim lessons need to be more accessible across communities and that aquatic facilities should invest in and regularly inspect safety features such as fencing, alarms, and pool covers.

“The two winning essays truly spoke to me on a personal level,” says Olympic Gold Medalist Rowdy Gaines, Vice President of Partnerships & Development at PHTA and head of the Step Into Swim drowning prevention initiative. “Nearly 4,000 fatal unintentional drownings happen in the United States every year. As an industry, we should be constantly looking for ways to reduce that figure. Broom and Morris both understand the life-saving role swim lessons play in preventing drownings.”

Additionally, Jason Marsh from Volunteer State Community College and Meghan Partrick from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill received $1,000 Foundation Scholarships. Both Marsh and Partrick are CPO certified lifeguards. Their essays both covered the importance of proper lifeguard training, including rescue drills and “drop tests” that involve pulling a mannequin or doll from the water.

Formal recognition of this year’s recipients will occur at the World Aquatic Health Conference in Houston, TX, during the Awards Reception on October 12. To learn more about the PHTA scholarship and fellowship programs, please visit https://www.phta.org/education-and-events/grants-and-scholarships/.

For more information, please contact Amy Willer, PHTA Associate Director of Marketing & Communications, at [email protected] or 703-838-0083 ext. 121.

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About the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a non-profit organization with more than 3,600 members from around the world, was established in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of the $36.5B pool, hot tub, and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy, standards development, research, and market growth to increase our members’ professionalism, knowledge, and profitability. Additionally, PHTA facilitates the expansion of swimming, water safety, and related research and outreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making swimming environments safer, and keeping pools open to serve communities. For more information, visit www.phta.org.  

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Marianne Trusty

Marianne Trusty is a Press Correspondent for the pool & spa industry. A published author and social media influencer reaching over 20 million people around the world each day. Contact Marianne about publishing op-editorials, breaking pool news and press releases at [email protected].

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Master Pools Guild Welcomes Red Rock Design Build as Newest Member

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Red Rock Design Build showing Brett and Rick

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

[email protected]

Office (804) 657-4752

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Nidec Names New Pool/Spa Motors National Account Manager

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Atticus Edge, Nidec's new National Account Manager for pool and spa motors, pictured alongside the Nidec logo and a Neptune pool pump motor.

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

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Pentair Names Josh Cowley Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, Pentair Pool

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a picture of a man

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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