Each year, filtration products manufacturer Pleatco names a Perfect Pool Guy and Gal. For 2016, the Glen Cove, N.Y.-based manufacturer had the challenge of choosing from more than 100 contestants. Each winner received a trip for two to the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo in New Orleans in November, where they were presented with their awards.
Jennifer Del Vaglio, of Southold, N.Y. won the Perfect Pool Gal designation in the contest co-sponsored by Genesis and the National Swimming Pool Foundation. Read on to learn more about them — and find out who took Pleatco’s other awards.
WOMAN OF MANY TALENTS
Pleatco recognized Jennifer Del Vaglio because of her willingness to immerse herself in all aspects of the industry, and her dedication to customers.
Del Vaglio takes pride in being able to excel as a woman in the pool industry, with experience in building pools and spas, chemistry maintenance and retail, along with being CPO and CPT certified.
“Her customers rave about her and say she is upbeat, positive and caring,” Smith says.
Del Vaglio’s journey at East End Pool King began when her husband announced big news while on vacation.
“I just bought a pool business, and I need your help,” she recalls him saying.
At the company, Del Vaglio plays an integral role in many aspects of the business, servicing 30 pools weekly, being hands-on with the construction and renovation side, motivating the team, and keeping track of inventory across all segments.
She enjoys how cleaning pools means giving customers the ability to enjoy time with friends and family. She takes great care in tending to customers’ individual needs. For instance, when an older client had to sell her home and relocate due to health needs, Del Vaglio offered to help her pack. “We really believe every customer is like a family member,” she says.
Del Vaglio notes that the male-dominated industry can be tricky for women to navigate. “... Girls are just as much physical and mind-powered and an asset to the industry,” she says.
She likes to be very hands-on, particularly in the construction side of the business. “Nothing makes me happier than having a shovel in my hand,” she says.
OTHER STAR SERVICE PROS
Pleatco expanded the contest again to include other award categories. This year, five other professionals were recognized:
• Todd Riddick of Sand Dollar Shores Pools & Spas in Nags Head, N.C., received the Backyard Hero Award;
• Erin Thibodeau of Pace Pool & Spa Service in Pace, Fla., earned the Outstanding Service Award;
• Jason Lehmann of The Water Connection in North Richland Hills., Texas, was recognized with the Industry Leadership Award;
• Douglas Hoerber of Doug Hoerber Pool Repairs in Lake Worth, Fla., was given the Lifetime Achievement Award;
• Mark Howard, of Poolwerx in Phoenix, received the Big Heart Award.
“We were so impressed by the caliber and diversity of individuals that we felt it proper to recognize the outstanding achievements of several other entrants,” said Pleatco CMO Battista Remati.
