Pool News
A Legacy Built in Water: Robert George Hauk

Robert George Hauk’s influential career in the aquatic industry began through early displays of resourcefulness, creativity, and a strong entrepreneurial drive. Born in 1939, Robert demonstrated an early interest in construction and water-based projects, embarking on his first significant endeavor at the age of 13 in 1952. This initial project involved building a swimming pool in his family’s backyard—not for profit but as a personal undertaking motivated by a keen interest in aquatic engineering. Despite his father’s skepticism regarding the utility and economic viability of swimming pools, Robert persisted with determination. Partnering with his lifelong friend, Joe Lynch, Robert embarked on a collaborative journey that would span decades and set the tone for his future professional undertakings.
Limited by resources but undeterred by challenges, Robert and Joe manually excavated the pool using shovels. Demonstrating innovative thinking, they repurposed rejected grain silos purchased from Clayton and Lambert—a company soon to patent the steel wall swimming pool in 1954. Robert capitalized on Clayton and Lambert’s rejected inventory for his initial installations, ingeniously adapting these grain silos into pool basins whose depths were available in increments of 30 inches, typically resulting in depths ranging from 8 to 12 feet. This detail was recently confirmed by Clayton and Lambert, who noted their grain silos were originally sold in standard 30-inch heights. This early adaptive use of materials highlighted Robert’s pioneering approach to pool construction, setting a precedent for creativity, innovation, and adaptive resourcefulness that would characterize his entire career.
The Establishment of Circle Pools
Robert rapidly expanded his expertise, and by 1953, at age 14, he completed a significant early project for the Schroeder family in Kirkwood, Missouri. This pool installation was especially notable not only for its superior craftsmanship but also for its indirect historical significance in motorsports. Dorsey Schroeder, who grew up swimming in the family’s Circle Pool, would later rise to fame as the 1989 Trans Am Series champion in his rookie season with Roush Racing. Schroeder further competed professionally in NASCAR events and the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona (Motorsport Magazine, n.d.), highlighting how Robert’s pools indirectly contributed to shaping a future motorsports champion.
Robert initially priced his pools at $1,995, an inclusive figure covering labor, materials, a ladder, a basic filtration system, and a pioneering Jacuzzi pump designed for effective water circulation and maintenance. This affordable price point significantly facilitated the rapid adoption of private swimming pools throughout the Midwest, making pool ownership accessible to broader socioeconomic groups and thus democratizing the recreational aquatic experience.
As Robert said, “$1,995 was a lot of money for a 14 year old kid, back then.”

Industry Impact and Innovation
Robert Hauk’s pioneering vision extended well beyond traditional recreational uses of swimming pools. Recognizing pools’ broader potential, he foresaw their applications in athletic training, scientific research, and even aerospace exploration. This visionary perspective established Circle Pools as a leader in innovative pool construction and technological advancement.

One of Robert’s most extraordinary and initially understated contributions came from a project commissioned by NASA and McDonnell Douglas Aircraft. Without extensive guidance or knowledge of the project’s ultimate purpose, Robert constructed an indoor grain silo pool within an empty warehouse.

It was only years later that he learned the significant impact of this installation—it served as a neutral buoyancy simulator used to mimic weightless conditions encountered by astronauts during NASA’s Mercury and Gemini missions. Robert’s pioneering work in buoyancy simulation became foundational, influencing current astronaut training practices employed in NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NASA, n.d.).

Robert frequently emphasized the importance of perception and customer experience in pool design and sales, often repeating his favorite quote: “Sell the sizzle, not the steak. If you can do that, you will sell a lot of pools.” This philosophy guided his approach to business, focusing on the emotional appeal, lifestyle enhancement, and experiential value pools provided rather than merely the technical specifications.
The Continuing Family Legacy
Robert George Hauk’s legacy transcends his individual contributions, deeply embedding itself into the subsequent generations of his family. His passion for innovation, commitment to meticulous craftsmanship, and relentless pursuit of excellence laid a robust foundation upheld by 15 Hauk family members actively engaged in the contemporary swimming pool industry. The Hauk Family has now been in the pool business for 73 years. Evolving from the foundational grain silo-based designs to sophisticated, contemporary acrylic installations, the Hauk family continues to embody Robert’s original ethos—consistently prioritizing innovation, quality, and craftsmanship in their work. Robert’s son, Robby, built one of the largest pool companies in the United States, Hauk Custom Pools. Robert’s other sons, Tom, David, and Jeff, own Mirage Custom Pools which operates in Dallas, Texas focusing on luxury pool construction.

As Robert’s eldest grandchild, my professional endeavors through Pure Design and Elemental Acrylic are deeply informed by his foundational principles. My commitment to innovation, creative problem-solving, and high standards of excellence serve as a direct continuation of my grandfather’s pioneering legacy, actively influencing my career in modern aquatic design and development.
Honoring Robert George Hauk
Robert George Hauk passed away peacefully on Valentine’s Day, reuniting in spirit with his beloved wife. Though physically absent, his profound influence remains visible in the pools he designed, the family members inspired by his life’s work, and the countless lives positively impacted by his innovations. His enduring legacy is a testament to the lasting influence of visionary leadership, creative resilience, and innovative problem-solving within the aquatic industry. Robert’s story continues to inspire, exemplifying the lasting significance one individual can impart upon generations, with his innovations continually shaping the aquatic industry, one pool at a time.
References
- Motorsport Magazine. (n.d.). Dorsey Schroeder Career Profile.
https://database.motorsportmagazine.com/database/drivers/dorsey-schroeder - NASA. (n.d.). Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory.
https://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/neutral-buoyancy-lab - Clayton & Lambert. (n.d.).
https://claytonlambert.com/about/clayton-lambert-history/
Pool News
Landmark Aquatic Brings Poolside Adventures Attractions Nationwide

Poolside Adventures and Landmark Aquatic have joined forces to bring big-impact attractions with a small footprint to aquatic facilities across the country. The partnership pairs Poolside Adventures’ AquaClimb®, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX attractions with Landmark’s expansive nationwide reach and proven expertise in aquatic facility design, construction, renovation, and maintenance.
Poolside Adventures attractions add excitement to aquatic facilities without a major renovation because they anchor directly to an existing pool deck with no water hookups, special tools or added concrete and reinforcement. In fact, the modular AquaClimb® walls can start with one section and grow with budgets. The AquaZip’N® is rapidly becoming a new, safer alternative to diving boards as it only requires four feet of water depth, can be installed in just a few hours, and has a throughput of six riders a minute.
“Some municipalities can’t afford a new water park or perhaps cannot renovate their pool this year,” said Cherie Moy, VP of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships for Poolside Adventures. “Our products are an easy answer: a big impact with a small footprint, adding an ‘active attraction’ that makes the pool more exciting.”
“Landmark has a large footprint across the country, and we’re especially excited about their reach into HOA communities, a growing market where our partnership has already led to multiple installations,” said Moy. “Together, we will help clients find the right fit for their space, their budget and to add action and adventure to their pool experience.”
Matt Cappello, Vice President of Design at Landmark Aquatic agrees saying, “We’re excited to collaborate with Poolside Adventures to promote the versatility, ease of installation and entertainment value their products will bring to more pools across the country.”
About Landmark
Since 1967, Landmark Aquatic has helped communities and organizations bring complex aquatic facilities to life and keep them performing. Today, we are the nation’s largest integrated commercial aquatics platform, providing design, construction, renovation, restoration, and maintenance services nationwide. Our construction-led expertise and long-term service capabilities give customers one trusted partner across every stage of a facility’s lifecycle. For the life of your pool. Learn more at www.landmarkaquatic.com.
About Poolside Adventures
For more than 20 years, Poolside Adventures’ flagship AquaClimb® has led the market for poolside climbing walls. Its full line, including the AquaClimb® Luxe, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX, delivers challenging, safe fun for swimmers of all ages. For more about Poolside Adventures visit www.aquaclimb.com.
Pool News
Shasta Pools Hires 30-Year Builder to Head Residential Construction

Vic Harshman brings extensive pool building experience to key leadership role
- Decades of proven pool construction experience across Nevada, Arizona and Texas
- Previously served as Shasta Pools’ exclusive excavation contractor
- Predecessor handpicked Harshman to grow position under new leadership team
SCOTTSDALE, Arizona (October 5, 2026) – Shasta Pools, Phoenix Metro’s most recognized pool builder, named Vic Harshman as Head of Residential Construction. Harshman joins the new leadership team with more than three decades of hands-on industry experience and a long-standing relationship with the company to one of its most critical leadership roles.
Harshman has held senior construction leadership positions in Arizona and Texas, and worked closely with Shasta Pools, developing firsthand knowledge about the company’s standards, culture and customers. The appointment reflects the momentum Shasta Pools has built since its August 6 acquisition by Dansons Capital Group, Accrual Equity Partners, and Hydro Construction, and positions the full-service 60-year old pool company for continued growth.
Leadership Perspective
“Vic brings exactly the kind of no-nonsense, customer-first leadership our residential construction division needs,” said Jeff Thiessen, President, Dansons Capital Group. “His philosophy is deeply aligned with ours. Keeping customers’ needs as the foremost priority at every stage of the build process is at the center of everything we do, and Vic lives that every day.”
Harshman’s career in pool construction began at age 19, when he purchased a backhoe and launched a business digging plumbing trenches and footings. When the housing market declined in the late 1980s, he relocated to Las Vegas and began excavating swimming pools, a move that led to the creation of Harshman Excavating.
Harshman built and operated excavation businesses in Nevada, Arizona and Texas, primarily serving the pool industry, and served for a period as Shasta’s exclusive excavation contractor.
In 2012, Harshman joined A&A Manufacturing, serving pool builders across an eight-state region and growing annual sales by 10x. In 2020, he joined Keith Zars Pools in Texas as Director of Construction, where he brought together decades of ownership, leadership and industry knowledge.
A Return Rooted in Relationships
“I have always believed that strong relationships, hard work, accountability and taking care of people are the foundation of a successful business,” said Vic Harshman, Head of Residential Construction, Shasta Pools. “Shasta has been a meaningful part of my career for many years. I am genuinely excited to come back and help lead this team into a very exciting future.”
Harshman steps into the role with the full support of Dan Thiessen, Chairman of the new ownership team, and John Mortensen, the outgoing head of residential construction. Mortensen recommended Harshman for the position and will now serve as the company’s lead trainer. That transition reflects Shasta Pools’ commitment to investing in its people and preserving institutional knowledge as the organization continues to grow.
ABOUT SHASTA POOLS:
Shasta Pools is Arizona’s trusted name in custom pool building, proudly serving the Valley since 1966. For 60 years, Shasta has transformed backyards into beautiful, functional spaces where families relax, entertain and enjoy life. The company specializes in new pool construction, remodeling, pool service and landscape design with plans for expansion into the home services market to provide customers with complete home care solutions. Learn more at ShastaPools.com.
ABOUT DANSONS CAPITAL GROUP:
Dansons Capital Group, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a family-owned and family-managed investment firm built on shared values, integrity and long-term vision. The firm was established by the founders of Dansons, Inc., the company that launched and sold Pit Boss Grills. The company takes a hands-on approach, actively seeking opportunities across global markets and multiple asset classes. Its growing portfolio includes strategic real estate development holdings across multiple countries, oil drilling technologies, and limited partnership investments. Guided by a deep commitment to quality and the communities they serve, the Thiessen family leads with gratefulness for the blessings God has given them and in turn supports those less fortunate. Dansons Capital Group continues to identify and cultivate opportunities that reflect their family’s values and generational vision.
ABOUT ACCRUAL EQUITY PARTNERS:
Accrual Equity Partners (AEP) is a founder-led, privately funded private equity group built on the belief that every person, every percentage, and every product matters. This commitment, known as the “Power of One,” drives AEP’s mission to empower businesses and secure legacies across fragmented, service-based industries. AEP partners with founder-led and family-owned businesses to overcome barriers and unlock their full potential through strategic investment, operational performance enhancement, and advisory services. For more information, visit AccrualEquityPartners.com.
ABOUT HYDRO CONSTRUCTION:
Hydro Construction, LLC (HydroCon) was founded in 1986 to serve Arizona’s commercial pool construction and renovation market. Under the leadership of Curt Lonsdale, the company’s commercial pool construction division now manages some of the largest and most complex projects in the country.
Pool News
NTCA Welcomes Jennifer Ibe and Rachel Smith to the Team

Flowood, MS, October 1 – The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is pleased to announce the addition of Jennifer Ibe as Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager and Rachel Smith as Membership Marketing Manager. The two new positions strengthen NTCA’s focus on membership growth, retention, engagement, and delivering greater value to members.
“Growing and strengthening our membership is a key priority for the NTCA, and Jennifer and Rachel bring the experience and expertise to help us do that,” said Jeremy Sax, Deputy Director of NTCA. “Their complementary skills will allow us to take a more strategic approach to both membership development and the overall member experience.”
Jennifer Ibe, Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager
Ibe brings more than 10 years of experience in association events, sales, sponsorships, relationship management, and strategic growth. Most recently, she served as Director of Sponsorship and Sales for the Global Workspace Association, where she led major conferences, sponsorship development, budgets, and initiatives that increased attendance by 33% and profitability by 30%.
At the NTCA, Ibe will lead membership recruitment, retention, re-engagement, and relationship development while supporting sponsorship and partner revenue opportunities. She will also represent the NTCA at major industry events and help strengthen relationships with members and prospective members.
Ibe holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Rachel Smith, Membership Marketing Manager
Smith brings extensive association experience in membership, communications, digital engagement, and member programming. Most recently, she served as Digital Communications Manager for the Association of Electric Companies of Texas. Previously, as Director of Membership for the Texas Economic Development Council, she managed more than 1,000 members and developed programs to increase member engagement and networking. She also served as Membership Coordinator for the Texas Association of Community Health Centers, where she managed more than 5,000 members and led new-member onboarding and retention initiatives.
At NTCA, Smith will focus on member onboarding, retention campaigns, communications, digital engagement, webinars, events, and community development. She will also support membership analytics and digital initiatives aimed at strengthening the member experience.
Smith holds a B.A. in Communications with a minor in Social Justice from West Virginia Wesleyan College.
“Jennifer’s focus on relationship-building and membership development, combined with Rachel’s experience in member communications and engagement, gives us a strong team focused on every stage of the member journey,” Sax added. “We’re excited about what this means for our members and for the future growth of NTCA.”
About NTCA
Established in 1947, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the professional installation of ceramic tile and natural stone. It is widely recognized as the largest and most respected tile contractors’ association in the world. For those seeking to improve their tile business, NTCA provides unparalleled educational experiences, supportive peer interaction, unique cost-savings programs, and a commitment to help develop the skills needed to improve your work, recruit, train, and manage your employees, and ultimately, make your business more profitable. Find out more at www.tile-assn.com.
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