The Wave of AI in the Aquatics Workforce

The modern professional landscape is rapidly evolving and the rise of AI is changing today's workspace as we know it. The aquatics industry is uniquely positioned to embrace new tech innovations while preserving its people-focused nature. And while some industries share concerns about potential job automation, the aquatics field thoughtfully integrates technologies in a way that enhances, rather than replaces, the valuable contributions of its professionals. 

An "AI-Proof" Workforce

At its core, aquatics is grounded in the human experience. AI can serve as a resource, but the true work is facilitated by skilled professionals. For every pool and hot tub project, our teams flex their talents and expertise to create stunning backyard escapes. 

Here's how aquatics relies on its dedicated workforce:

• The Personal Touch – Crafting an aquatics space requires care and attention, and that's where the personal touch of this industry shines. Our teams are equipped with the experience to exceed client expectations, turning their vision into a reality. Whether constructing a pool or troubleshooting a system, aquatics prides itself on a superior quality of work that can't quote be replicated by technology. 
• Real-World Roots – The pool and hot tub industry is a dynamic, on-the-go field that relies on the physical presence of professionals. Our workers go where they are needed to support customers: in the field, onsite and in stores. While AI tools can help streamline monitoring, maintenance, or operations, there will always be a need for a hands-on component. 
• Trusted Relationships – Client relationships are built upon trust, exceptional service, and routine interaction. AI technology can serve as an outlet for these connections, yet it's ultimately our people who build and maintain them. These connections are at the heart of the aquatics workforce. 

Opportunities for AI in Aquatics

Despite hesitations around this new technology, AI does offer significant benefits that can improve routine industry processes. AI integrations across the different aquatics industry sectors can help with workflow and enhance overall user experience. 

"Whether streamlining our internal processes or powering more intelligent products, we see AI as a tool that enhances the way we operate and supports our customers in optimizing their businesses – while delivering a smarter, more seamless pool experience to consumers," shared Jon Viner, President of Fluidra North America, a strategic partner of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. 

Curious to know more? These are the ways in which AI technology supports the aquatics industry:

• Construction – For installation, planning, and design, AI can be implemented as a tool to assist in the ideation stages through mockup creation, blueprint development, and project management. 
• Maintenance – Service professionals can utilize this technology to expedite repairs, troubleshoot potential water issues, and introduce new methods for cleaning, filtration and testing. 
• Manufacturing – Nothing can replace the creativity of the human mind, yet AI can function as another brain in the innovation process to introduce new concepts, revolutionize curennt practices, enhance existing pool products, and beyond. 
• Retail – AI has already established a presence in the retail space in the form of chat bots, but our aquatic sales representatives can utilize this technology behind-the-scenes to organize inventory and routinely fulfill customer orders.

The Next Workforce Wave

While there's excitement, curiosity, and uncertainty around AI, the aquatics industry take a confident view of its future with this technology. "AI represents a strategic opportunity for this industry to evolve," added Viner. 

Pools and hot tubs exist for real-time experiences, and our industry is successful because of our people, skills, expertise, and trust. With this new era of technology, AI will play an important role in the future of aquatics, yet our commitment will always remain with the people who make this industry great. 

Ready to seize these in-demand opportunities? Explore the different career paths in the pool and hot tub industry, and start applying on our exclusive job board.