Pool and spa professionals can choose from an array of educational offerings at the 2016 PSP Expo’s conference segment, running Oct. 30 to Nov. 4. With a grand total of 67 classes and more than 260 hours of course selections and targeted education tracks and programs, there’s bound to be something for everyone at the conference.

Besides the offerings of APSP, Genesis, NSPF, the Hayward School of Business and the National Plasterers Council, there are 45 sessions in the conference program, and they’re all new, according to Tracy Garcia, CEM, show director at Informa Exhibitions U.S. of Irving, Texas.

Seminar topics run the gamut, from the ever-popular water chemistry to how to find and hire top performers, showroom design that maximizes customer experience and sales, basic financials, and more.

Of course, there will be some standouts. “One session in particular, ‘Selling the Whole Backyard Lifestyle,’ is generating hype among registrants,” Garcia says. It will feature Tony Rodriguez, Summerset Casual’s president/CEO, discussing how dealers can close sales beyond the pool. “The industry is becoming more aware that consumers are now seeking to build an experience in their outdoor living spaces as opposed to selling them on an individual product,” Garcia adds.

She notes that Scott Cohen will be presenting on that topic as well during his two-part session “Design and Build the Ultimate Outdoor Living Experience,” on Thursday, Nov. 3.

Another session sparking interest among Expo registrants is Wednesday’s “Efficient Installations: Equipment, Controls and Underwater Speakers,” led by Paolo Benedetti.

Then there are the educational experiences in the exhibit hall. “Education on the show floor is always a draw,” Garcia notes. “The Hayward School of Business is expected to be packed, as usual. There will be [a total of] six sessions on Wednesday and Thursday.” She adds that other educational opportunities on the show floor include Splash Talks, Commercial Education, and the Genesis Lifestyle Program.

Now let’s take an early look at some seminars specially tailored for builders, service technicians and retailers.