Awards & Certifications
Awards, Certifications & Professional Affiliations
Experience Recognized by the Pool and Spa Industry
Since 1970, Douglas Aquatics has built a reputation for exceptional pool design, quality construction, and dependable service throughout Richmond and communities across Central and Eastern Virginia. Our award-winning work, professional certifications and respected industry affiliations reflect our continued commitment to craftsmanship, safety and customer satisfaction.
We believe outstanding pools begin with knowledgeable professionals. Through continuing education, advanced technical training and collaboration with leading industry organizations, our team stays informed about the latest standards, technologies and best practices for designing, constructing, renovating and maintaining pools, spas and water features.
Professional Certifications
Training That Supports Better Results
Douglas Aquatics team members hold nationally recognized certifications covering pool construction, operation, service and maintenance. These credentials require specialized education and testing in areas such as hydraulics, water chemistry, equipment, circulation, filtration, electrical systems, construction standards and jobsite safety.
- Certified Advanced Pool Builder Professional – This advanced designation represents a high level of education in pool design and construction. The program expands upon the Certified Builder Professional credential with additional training in areas such as fluid hydraulics, engineering principles and the construction of complex pool and spa environments.
- Certified Builder Professional — CBP – The Certified Builder Professional designation demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of pool construction. Certified professionals complete required GENESIS construction education and pass an industry examination covering the principles and standards involved in building residential and commercial swimming pools.
- Certified Pool & Spa Operator — CPO – The Certified Pool & Spa Operator program provides essential training in safe and effective pool operation. Certification topics include water chemistry, testing, disinfection, filtration, regulatory guidelines, chemical handling, troubleshooting and risk reduction.
- Certified Pool & Spa Service Technician — CST – The Certified Pool & Spa Service Technician designation reflects advanced knowledge of pool systems and equipment. Training includes circulation, filtration, hydraulics, electricity, equipment operation, pool finishes, repairs and practical troubleshooting.
- Certified Pool & Spa Maintenance Specialist — CMS – The Certified Pool & Spa Maintenance Specialist program focuses on the fundamentals of professional pool care, including safety, circulation, filtration, routine maintenance and water quality. It also introduces electrical systems, heaters, controls, pool structures, finishes and customer service.
Together, these certifications help our team provide informed recommendations, identify potential concerns and complete work according to established industry standards.
Professional Affiliations
Connected to Leaders Across the Pool and Spa Industry
Douglas Aquatics is proud to participate in respected professional organizations that promote education, innovation, safety and excellence throughout the pool and spa industry. These affiliations give our team access to continuing education, technical resources and a network of experienced professionals from across the country and around the world.
- Master Pools Guild – The Master Pools Guild is an international network of accomplished independent pool builders committed to quality construction, exceptional customer service and ethical business practices. Membership allows builders to exchange technical knowledge, design inspiration and proven business practices with other leading pool professionals.
- GENESIS® Society of Watershape Designers – GENESIS provides advanced education for professionals involved in the design, engineering and construction of pools, spas and other watershapes. Douglas Aquatics’ involvement reflects our commitment to thoughtful design, sound engineering and ongoing professional development.
- Pool & Hot Tub Alliance – The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance supports education, certification, safety and professional standards throughout the pool, spa and hot tub industry. Many of the professional credentials held by Douglas Aquatics team members are part of PHTA’s established certification pathways.
- National Plasterers Council – The National Plasterers Council is dedicated to advancing knowledge and technical expertise related to cementitious pool and spa interior finishes. Its educational resources and industry collaboration help promote proper application practices and high-quality finished surfaces.
