Pleatco expanded its awards program to include seven winners in 2016. Pictured left to right: Todd Riddick, Backyard Hero Award; Mark Howard, Big Heart Award; Jason Lehmann, Industry Leadership Award; Perfect Pool Guy Cory Eagles; Pleatco CEO Howard Smith; Erin Thibodeau, Outstanding Service Award; Brian Van Bower, Genesis; Douglas Hoerber, Lifetime Achievement Award; Skip Phillips, Genesis; Perfect Pool Gal Jennifer Del Vaglio; and Thomas Lachocki, NSPF.
PleatcoPure Pleatco expanded its awards program to include seven winners in 2016. Pictured left to right: Todd Riddick, Backyard Hero Award; Mark Howard, Big Heart Award; Jason Lehmann, Industry Leadership Award; Perfect Pool Guy Cory Eagles; Pleatco CEO Howard Smith; Erin Thibodeau, Outstanding Service Award; Brian Van Bower, Genesis; Douglas Hoerber, Lifetime Achievement Award; Skip Phillips, Genesis; Perfect Pool Gal Jennifer Del Vaglio; and Thomas Lachocki, NSPF.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Pleatco’s annual Perfect Pool Guy/Gal search. The Glen Cove, N.Y.-based manufacturer of pool and spa filtration products, along with co-sponsors Genesis and National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF), will accept entries until September 10.

The Perfect Pool Guy/Gal contest began in 2007 as a way to recognize service industry men and women who excel in their profession. Organizers search for the best pool and spa service technicians across the United States, and internationally, through submissions.

Winners will receive a trip for two to the International Pool, Spa, and Patio Expo in Orlando, as well as free admission to the Genesis Basic Pool Construction Course, (listed as a $5,000 value), recognition at an awards gala, the chance to participate in a national marketing campaign, and free products from Pleatco.

In celebration of the 10th anniversary, NSPF will offer its AST Certification course free of charge to all Perfect Pool Guy/Gal alumni.

Nominations can come from the technicians themselves, from customers or other industry professionals. To submit a nominee, go to Pleatco’s website. The process includes filling out a questionnaire and submitting a written testimonial, along with photos or video. The deadline for entries is September 10, and voting takes place from September 14 to October 1. Finalists will be contacted by Pleatco between October 4 and 7. The manufacturer will announce winners on its website and present the awards at the PSP in Orlando in November 2017.