Long Island Pool Companies Are Fighting the Labor Shortage Crisis with Innovative Training Programs That Could Transform the Industry

The pool service industry across Long Island is facing an unprecedented labor shortage that’s forcing companies to get creative with their workforce development strategies. By 2025, industries across New York will require nearly 454,000 new workers to meet demand, creating intense competition for skilled technicians. Worker shortages and high chlorine prices are resulting in people leaving the pool service industry altogether, causing more pressure on those who stay in business.

This shortage isn’t just a temporary setback – it’s reshaping how pool service companies approach hiring and training. Workforce development may well be the biggest challenge facing the pool industry today. Forward-thinking companies on Long Island are responding by investing heavily in local worker training programs, apprenticeships, and professional development initiatives that are setting new industry standards.

The Scope of the Problem

If we hire 10 or 20 guys, maybe two will stick, explains one industry veteran, highlighting the retention challenges plaguing the sector. Historically, the pool industry has experienced frequent turnover. Add high employment and labor shortages across many industries nationwide, and filling jobs at pool companies is especially difficult right now.

The situation is particularly acute on Long Island, where many Long Island pool companies are already reporting that they’re booking weeks or even months ahead of their typical schedule. This scheduling backlog is directly impacting customer service and putting additional strain on existing workers.

Training Solutions Taking Root

Recognizing that traditional hiring approaches aren’t sufficient, Long Island pool companies are implementing comprehensive training programs. The most successful initiatives focus on three key areas: professional certification, hands-on apprenticeships, and ongoing education.

New York State Sanitary Code (Title 10, Part 6) requires that all public swimming pools have a qualified pool operator. Most NY health departments interpret this to mean a CPO-certified operator is required. This regulatory requirement has created opportunities for companies to build structured training pathways.

From rooftop pools in Manhattan to apartment complexes in Albany and swim centers in Long Island, the demand for certified pool operators in New York is strong. Companies are leveraging this demand by partnering with training organizations to offer 2 day CPO® certification program run 8:30 to 5:00 both days and covers all 18 chapters from the NSPF® Pool & Spa OperatorTM Handbook as well as local state codes.

Industry-Leading Apprenticeship Programs

The most innovative solution comes from nationally recognized apprenticeship programs that are now available to Long Island companies. The PHTA Apprenticeship Program, registered with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), is the pool and hot tub industry’s premier training pathway. It provides hands-on, paid training and industry-recognized education — helping both workers and employers build a stronger future.

These programs offer two distinct career tracks: The Pool Maintenance and Service Technician Apprenticeship Program provides employers with an educational pathway to lead apprentices through 2,000 hours of on-the-job training, as well as a self-study program that offers more than 144 additional hours of online classroom-style instruction. For construction-focused roles, The Pool Installer Technician Apprenticeship Program provides employers with an educational pathway to lead apprentices through 3,500 hours of on-the-job training, as well as a self-study program that offers more than 228 additional hours of online classroom-style instruction.

Local Success Stories

JAS Aquatics, a premier Pool Service Long Island, NY company, exemplifies how local businesses are adapting to workforce challenges. Since our inception in 2009, JAS Aquatics has been at the forefront of designing bespoke outdoor living spaces throughout Long Island, Queens, and the surrounding areas. The company has built its reputation on exceptional quality in every service, ensuring each project is completed to the highest standard.

JAS Aquatics is a premier provider of custom pools and outdoor living spaces in Long Island and surrounding areas, specializing in both residential and commercial pool services. Since 2009, they have offered a comprehensive range of products and services including pool maintenance, chemicals, cleaning equipment, and accessories. Their approach demonstrates how established companies can maintain service excellence while navigating workforce challenges.

Practical Training Strategies

Successful Long Island companies are implementing several key strategies to develop their workforce:

• Establishing partnerships with local educational institutions, such as trade schools or community colleges, which often have students looking for summer jobs. Establishing partnerships with these institutions not only helps fill positions quickly but also fosters a pipeline of potential future employees.
• A well-structured training program ensures that all employees, regardless of their experience level, are equipped with the necessary skills to perform their jobs competently. This can include hands-on training, online tutorials, and mentorship opportunities with experienced technicians.
• Offering incentives such as performance bonuses, flexible schedules, and opportunities for advancement can motivate seasonal workers and improve job satisfaction.

The Investment Pays Off

Companies investing in comprehensive training programs are seeing measurable returns. According to industry statistics, companies that invest in training programs see a 24% increase in employee retention rates. Additionally, apprenticeship programs can help streamline the recruitment process. By training apprentices, companies can effectively evaluate potential employees’ skills and fit for the company’s culture before offering full-time positions.

The transformation isn’t just about filling positions – it’s about elevating the entire industry. Investing in employees, and in turn, companies, helps to better the industry, turning the pool industry away from the stigma of the “typical pool guy” who does the work as a part-time job into a viable, rewarding career where the employee is an expert in their field. The apprenticeship program is like the cornerstone to help companies raise their level of professionalism and get their people on a good footing.

Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond

As Long Island pool companies continue to innovate their training approaches, the industry is poised for significant transformation. PSATC anticipates rolling out another program as well as a national version in 2025. This expansion of formal training programs suggests that the solutions being developed on Long Island could become models for the entire industry.

For homeowners seeking pool services, this investment in workforce development translates to better service quality, more reliable scheduling, and access to properly trained technicians who understand both the technical and safety aspects of pool maintenance. The companies leading this training revolution are positioning themselves not just to survive the current labor shortage, but to thrive in an industry that’s becoming increasingly professional and skilled.

The pool service labor shortage that seemed like an insurmountable challenge is driving innovation that could ultimately strengthen the entire industry. Long Island companies that embrace comprehensive training programs today are building the foundation for sustained success in 2025 and beyond.