Can anyone give me information on factory training such as Pentair or Hayward other than pool and spa shows? Do they have training on their equipment at the factory? And I would like some general training in the industry to get a better understanding of how pool systems work. I have been in the industry for three years but for the most part it has been only part time one day a week but I would like to expand my knowledge as well as grow my business to full time. I do already have my CPO certification and will soon be a IPPSA member. Can someone help me on this.
Replies
Thanks Scott, that is great information.
Don
I've been to a ton of manufacturer's training sessions and while you pick up some technical knowledge most of the presentation is driven to selling you on their product. This isn't bad, it also helps you sell their product to your customer. If I am hearing you correctly, you want some more "nuts and bolts" education. If you are a book learner you might look into the APSP's Certified Service Professional or the Certified Building Professional. You might also be lucky enough to find a builder that will let you job shadow them through some of the phases of construction. This would help you by seeing all those hidden parts we toss in the ground and cover up. It would also let you ask some of the "why" questions you might have during the process. Hope this helps.
Talk to your distributors(Superior, SCP, Emsco, or whoever is in your area) and see when they have their open houses or roundtables. Both of my distributors have these at least once a year and we go to each one to see new products, build relationships, and learn what we can. I am fortunate enough to be large enough to have the manufacturers reps come to my place to hold training, but get to know your rep and talk to them about it, you will have a better chance with them as they are looking for you to use their product. Many of them may even come out int he field with you if you are having an issue. The manufacturers do offer training at their factory, however it is often quite expensive and requires travel. You are better off with the smaller centralized offerings.
Thanks for the info.
Don Parish said:
Don,
Manufacturers like Pentair, Hayward typically have training class' that they do in some of the larger or more centralized areas.
Pentair: http://www.pentairpool.com/pool-pro/dealer-resources/training/index...
Hayward: https://www.totallyhayward.com/techServices/register/
Any other manufacturers you should contact your local sales rep and see if they offer training in your area or have a one on one training session with your rep.