Life is fast in the digital age; there is so much information available at our fingertips. People can learn just about anything through YouTube; so why is being a member of a trade organization like IPSSA so important to you and your pool service business?
The Independent Pool and Spa Service Association, Inc. exists for the mutual professional benefit and growth of its members and for the continued improvement of the pool and spa industry.
IPSSA members believe this is achieved through community, education, and support. The cost of membership is equal to a few cups of coffee a month. Each chapter sets their own monthly dues, and there is a small portion included to IPSSA National.
Community — Being a member of an IPSSA chapter connects you to a community of other pool service professionals. Chapter meetings provide face-to-face opportunities to network with other members and share best practices, ideas, and advice in working through common industry problems. IPSSA members not only bond through business but also through chapter social events and participation in community outreach. You get to connect with people who understand you and what you do: you are not alone.
Education — IPSSA Chapter Meetings often include educational opportunities. Its members benefit from meetings that feature in-person learning from industry partners in subjects such as: pool route management, the latest in chemical products, and equipment training. IPSSA also provides education reimbursement grants to anyone selfemployed in the pool service trade to offset the costs of education related to your business through the IPSSA Education Fund.
One way that IPSSA supports education is through its IPSSA Education Fund. Applicant is eligible for (2) $200 per course scholarship through the ED FUND. The Fund is available to all pool professionals that derive 50% of their income from the pool industry and makes scholarships available for individual and class instruction. Qualifying classes include: ▪ Industry Trade Show education offerings ▪ Certified Pool Operator (CPO) courses ▪ Aquatics Facility Operator (AFO) courses ▪ Contractor License school courses ▪ Manufacturer- sponsored courses ▪ College-level courses in: Bookkeeping, accounting, use of computers and chemistry subjects.
▪ Trade-school courses in: Plumbing, electrical and mechanical subjects Support — What happens if you get injured or sick and cannot service your customers’ pools? Members of an IPSSA chapter help each other out by providing coverage through the Sick Route Program.
Chapter members will divide and share the responsibilities in servicing your route without solicitation to your customers during the agreed-upon recovery period. This protects your income and your business.
Customer Benefits — Becoming a member of an IPSSA chapter is also good for your customers. IPSSA requires all members to carry a minimum of $1 million in liability insurance.
Its members have access to an exclusive endorsed insurance option through Hub/Arrow Insurance; this is the very best insurance coverage in our industry.
IPSSA members must certify proficiency in water chemistry by the end of their first year of membership; your customers can rest assured that their pool is being serviced by the highest qualified professional in their area.
Your customers also benefit should you need sick route coverage; the health of their pools will not suffer due to your illness or injury.
Are you interested in learning more? Come to a meeting and see what IPSSA is about.
You can find a local chapter with meeting information, membership application, insurance information and complete details online at the the IPSSA Education Fund at www. ipssa.com.
