Duration & Format

24 Hours (2.4 IACET CEUs). Available online or in-person.

Course Description

Students spend three days carefully examining the key elements of swimming pool construction with a focus on how basic engineering directly determines construction methods and details.

Day One covers basic engineering (listed above), Day Two moves through construction phases including layout, forming, utilities, safety barriers, shotcrete, waterproofing, tile and coping, all with an eye toward exceeding standards and best practices.

The program concludes with discussions about concrete decking, plaster science and startup methods. 

Learning Outcomes

1. List engineering disciplines: geotechnical, hydraulic, structural and electrical.
2. Examine project layout, form design/construction, shotcrete application and waterproofing techniques.
3. Examine artisan points: tile and coping, decking, plaster preparations, cementitious finishes, materials science.
4. Discuss startup procedures, punch list execution and project conclusion/hand over.

Instructor(s)

Bill Drakeley, ACI, IWI

Paolo Benedetti, IWI

Rick Chafey, IWI

Joe Dempsey, Jr., IWI

Ben Lasseter, IWI

Isaac Keselman, IWI

Chris Volk, IWI

Duration & Format

16 hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

As existing pools age and ownership turns over to a new generation, major renovations have become a larger and larger part of the watershape construction market. This in-depth, two-day major renovation design course is formatted with a series of targeted lectures supporting an interactive renovation design project. 

Learning Outcomes

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Instructor(s)

Bill Drakeley, ACI, IWI

Paolo Benedetti, IWI

Ben Lasseter, IWI

Dave Peterson, P.E., IWI

Chris Volk, IWI

Duration & Format

24 hours (2.4 IACET CEUs). Live in-person only.

Course Description

This rigorous three-day program is presented sequentially by experts from each trade, unifying all watershaping technical disciplines into a manageable and disciplined process. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Review site work including gravity plumbing, soil stabilization, pier and beam foundations, advanced site work and forming, and control and automation systems. 
2. Identify mechanical, venting and exhaust systems, and automation/control systems. 
3. Examine architecturally integrated watershapes, concrete science, fire elements and glass-tile installation. 
4. Consider innovative aesthetic details, technical solutions to unique challenges and construction strategies at difficult sites. 

Instructor(s)

Paolo Benedetti, IWI

Rick Chafey, IWI

Bill Drakeley, ACI, IWI

Dave Penton, IWI

Dave Peterson, P.E., IWI

Duration & Format

16 hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Live in-person workshop only.

Course Description

Custom tile installations come with high expectations and often extravagant client investments, making absolute perfection the only acceptable outcome. Clearing that high bar requires a carefully controlled work environment, and complete command of proven installation techniques. This comprehensive presentation offers a framework for ensuring artisan execution and superior results in all environmental conditions. Taught by Luke and Amy Denny, one of the industry’s leading and most sought-after tile-installation artisans, students will go on a deep and detailed dive into the installation process. From how to properly tent and protect tile-installation environments, to the use of setting materials, understanding tile characteristics, and assembling a skilled labor force that is prepared to work at the highest level through seasonal and multi-seasonal projects, this course defines the roadmap to tile-installation success and professional prowess. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the Tile Industry Standard for tile installations in submerged environments (TCNA P-602).
2. Identify best practices for designing glass tile within pool environments.
3. Explore methods, tips and tools for preparing a shell to receive a mosaic full-tile layout, in-class and hands-on.
4. Review hands-on techniques for mortar rendering and installation.

Instructor(s)

Amy and Luke Denny

Duration & Format

16 hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Live in-person workshop only.

Course Description

This class defines and resolves frustrating disconnects that have long existed between pool builders, plaster applicators and service technicians. By combining these three disciplines and the key phases they encompass, students completing this class will fully understand concrete pool expectations in terms of finished application, successful start-up and satisfying project goals and intentions.

The instructor panel features top experts in their respective fields: Bill Drakeley (concrete), Jon Temple (plaster) and Eric Knight (start-up/service). The curriculum includes both hands-on instruction for application techniques, lecture, and supplemental instruction and reference materials. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Establish a baseline of acceptable pool concrete surface substrates and surface profiles, prepped and made ready for a new plaster application.
2. Discuss and demonstrate (in class) proper plaster design/mixology
3. Learn plaster application techniques and examine texture and bondability characteristics.
4. Learn cement chemistry as it relates to hydration, curing and carbonation
5. Learn the optimal startup water chemistry for proper plaster curing in the first 30 days.
   

Instructor(s)

Jon Temple

Johan Temple

Robert Abinuman

Bill Drakeley, ACI, IWI

Eric Knight

Miguel Chavez

Duration & Format

12 hour (1.2 IACET CEUs). Blended format: 4 hours online, 8 hour in-person workshop.

Course Description

Well-crafted presentations help homeowners visualize their watershapes and surrounding landscape. Additionally, using hand-drawn sketches on a job site cuts miscommunication and can be effective in conveying the work to be done, especially when cross-sectional views are critical.

In this 12-hour, blended-format, introductory course, students will take a four-hour video lecture and then spend a full day receiving live instruction, while practicing the dynamic art and craft of perspective drawing. 

Learning Outcomes

1. List basic perspective drawing and presentation skills.
   
   
2. Define visual attributes including plan views, elevations, sections, detailing and lettering.
   
   
3. Explore linear perspectives through one- and two-point techniques used to create visual depth in two dimensions.
   
   
4. Identify common drawing flaws and errors in perspective.

Instructor(s)

Mike Nantz, IWI

Duration & Format

16 hour (1.6 IACET CEUs). Live in-person workshop only.

Course Description

With the widespread use of 3D modeling programs over the past two decades, a majority of watershape and outdoor-living designers have joined the industry without the advantage of formal professional design education. 

This intensive two-day design workshop fills that gap with a crash-course detailing the core concepts of watershape and landscape design – all tailored specifically to intricacies of residential pools and outdoor living. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Explore the reasons WHY We Design including the sub-conscious role that design plays in creating an underlying emotional connection between our clients and the created space that they cannot leave.
   
2. Define how to see the world with “design eyes” as you discover the fundamental elements and principles of design. Instruction includes creating Objects and Properties, Spatial Theme, Design Framework, and Design Composition
   
3. Discover the benefit of a blended, design process that accentuates the inherent character of each project site, home, and client blending traditional “old school” design methodology with the unique advantages of modern modeling technology.
   
4. Examine numerous case studies and project examples created by design masters across the world and develop a final project design concept, with instruction on how to modify the process to fit your company, your client, and your style

Instructor(s)

Jason Brownlee, ASLA, IWI

Duration & Format

16 hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Live in-person workshop only.

Course Description

This invaluable course develops design literacy that is the true DNA of watershape design 

Learning Outcomes

1. Define the concept of architectural style and historical influence.
   
2. Review and describe 20th Century design traditions including Arts and Crafts, Prairie Style, Art Deco, Bauhaus, California Bungalow, Mid-Century Modern, Brutalism and many others.
   
3. Consider the role of water in architectural motifs.
   
4. Explore how 20th Century architectural styles continue to define 21st Century design.

Instructor(s)

Jason Brownlee, ASLA, IWI

Mike Nantz, IWI

Duration & Format

16 hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

Whether on purpose or not, the use of color has a tremendous impact on design, and ultimately, the user experience. In this essential course, students explore the powerful impact of color theory and how to wield it to distinguish their design work, and inspire emotional reactions from their clients. 

Learning Outcomes

1. List the properties of light, vision and optical physics. Define color theory, primary colors, color “DNA”, blends and color mixing. 
2. Discuss the use of color wheels. Explore the concept of color psychology and how it impacts mood, and ultimately purchasing decisions.
   
3. Consider how color can make or break design concepts.
   

Instructor(s)

Lea Frederick, IWI

Duration & Format

16 hour (1.6 IACET CEUs). Live in-person workshop only.

Course Description

Most WU students have taken the basic Elements and Principles of Design courses and should have a solid grasp on the fundamental building blocks necessary to create good design projects. But what happens next? What is needed to take the next steps toward becoming an exceptional designer and creating masterful Watershape and Outdoor Living spaces that connect on an emotional and visceral level?

What are the Advanced Design Principles that guide Master-Level Watershape Designers to take the canvas of client, house, and site; then transform their design space into an artistic expression? We will examine these advanced principles -- from historic origins to modern interpretations -- as we blend design theory with emotional psychology and practical application with real-world design examples from Modern-day Masters.

We will examine the extremely important WHY a space connects with its viewer, WHAT natural elements provide to a design, WHERE to successfully incorporate the advanced feature details studied in WU courses, WHEN the design is complete, HOW to develop Design Discipline Habits to improve your skills, and -- most importantly -- WHO can become a Master Designer -- anyone with a critical eye and inquisitive mind! 

Learning Outcomes

1. Discover the Intermediate Design Principles (Integration / Illusion / Authenticity / Engagement)
   
2. Recognize Classical design techniques from artistic masters throughout historical periods (Golden Rule / etc.
   
3. Understand the Gestalt Principles of Design (Proximity / Closure / Similarity / Continuity / Perception / Organization / Symmetry)
   
4. Develop Practical Design Discipline Habits to improve your design skill set.

Instructor

Jason Brownlee, ASLA, IWI

Duration & Format

2 hours (0.2 IACET CEUs). Available Online.

Course Description

Inground watershape structures must be engineered to reliably exist within the surrounding geological conditions. Before you can engineer the structure, you must first understand the soils.

This course explores the role of geotechnical science, soils reports and how structures are engineered to prevent damage from differential settlement, expansive soils, corrosive soils, liquefaction, slip-planes, seismology and other natural forces.

Learning Outcomes

1. List common geological conditions that impact in-ground watershape structures, including soil mechanics, bearing capacity, lateral pressures, compaction, settlement, and differential settlement.
2. Examine soils report requirements and how to interpret geotechnical data.
3. Discuss code requirements and best practices for soil design and engineering
4. Compare relevant construction techniques including excavation, trenching, soil compaction and shoring.

Instructor(s)

Dave Peterson, P.E., IWI

Duration & Format

2 hours (0.2 IACET CEUs). Available Online.

Course Description

This course provides a basic understanding of structural engineering and design. Although not intended to teach structural engineering, per se, a working familiarity with, and application of, basic structural concepts can often spell the difference between project success and structural failure.

More advanced instruction covering issues such as design for caissons, timber piles, helical piles, auger-cast piles and other foundations are introduced in ENG 3251: Understanding Pier & Beam Construction. 

Learning Outcomes

1. List structural characteristics including compression, tension, shear forces, bending moments, and live and dead loads.
2. Examine reinforcing steel design, details and installation.
3. Define concrete compressive strengths and other engineered characteristics.
4. Discuss compliance with code requirements including ACI 318, ACI 350, ASA and the IBC.

Instructor(s)

Dave Peterson, P.E., IWI

Duration & Format

16 Hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Available online and Live in-person workshop.

Course Description

The importance of understanding the mathematics of hydraulic watershape design cannot be overstated. It is an essential element in every type of watershape system. In this detailed class, students are immersed in hydraulic principles and applied science needed to design efficient, durable and serviceable circulation systems. 

Learning Outcomes

1. List key fluid engineering concepts including area, volume, volume, depth, mass, flow rate, pressure, velocity, energy, head pressure and others. 
2. Apply basic hydraulic principles, guidelines, standards and code limitations to watershape design. 
3. Discuss efficiency principles including total dynamic head (TDH), electrical efficiency, energy costs and heating efficiency. 
4. Practice using apps for pipe sizing and other key calculations. 

Instructor(s)

Dave Peterson, P.E., IWI

Duration & Format

16 Hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

Vanishing edge and slot-edge details have become, and remain, among the most popular custom design elements. As a result, the ability to design the structural and mechanical systems is an important skill in the watershaper’s design toolbelt.

This comprehensive eight-hour program, divided into two sections, familiarizes students with the key technical issues needed for today’s crafty edge treatments. Note: students are required students to use their laptop to access worksheets provided on a flash drive. 

Learning Outcomes

1. List edge design details for water-in-transit pools, spas, and water features.
2. Compile a library of SketchUp edge details. 
3. Utilize mechanical design worksheets for vanishing and slot-edge details. 
4. Demonstrate speedy design and engineering methods for water-in-transit pools, spas, and water features for quick bids and estimates. 

Instructor(s)

Rick Chafey, IWI

Dave Peterson, P.E., IWI

Duration & Format

16 Hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Live in-person workshop only.

Course Description

This rigorous 16-hour program provides detailed instruction in fluid engineering for custom pools, spas, and other types of watershapes. Activities includes a detailed project worth 50%, and an online exam accounting for the remaining 50% of the passing score.

E2311 is a prerequisite for this program. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Define the meaning and scope of advanced hydraulics, hydrology, and fluid dynamics design, including complex gravity-fed and water-in-transit systems. 
2. Detail water-in-transit engineering including vanishing edges, slot-edges, gutters, and water features. 
3. Demonstrate use of the WatershapeAdvisor® series of software worksheets, including surge basin design, gravity and drainage systems, channels, lazy rivers, level-bottom slot channels, and more. 
4. Practice analyzing vanishing edge and slot-edge pool and spa combinations, as a class project. 

Instructor(s)

Dave Peterson, P.E., IWI

Duration & Format

16 Hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Live in-person workshop only.

Course Description

Electricity rarely wants to engage with water but, in the watershaping industry, it is unavoidable — electrical power is needed to run pumps, heaters, chemistry systems, lights and other equipment. The pool and hot tub industry has volumes of very specific life-critical codes to consider, spread across multiple ever-changing documents.

Making sense of it all is a challenge even for licensed electricians who may have wired 1,000 homes but still don't know how to wire a single pool safely. And that's just the "high-voltage" side of things — there is much to talk about on the low-voltage and wireless side of communications, controls, home automation, etc.

This program is designed for pool builders, service professionals and licensed electricians needing to improve their watershaping electrical acumen. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Explain high-voltage terms, definitions, electrical-science and functionality including single and three-phase systems. 
2. Calculate sizing of feeders, panels, breakers, conductors, conduits, voltage drop and other important design parameters using a series of worksheets.
   
3. Appraise proper installation considerations such as conduit and conductor routing developed through hands-on exercises.
   
4. Discuss, design and evaluate low-voltage measurement, communications, protocols and controls from simple chemical controllers to complex home automation integration.
   

Instructor(s)

Paolo Benedetti, IWI

Dave Peterson, P.E., IWI

Duration & Format

8 Hours (0.8 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

Operating a construction, service, and/or retail business can be a rewarding experience but it also comes with great responsibility and potential liability. Quality watershaping firms need to be on top of their games in both their external client-facing efforts, and also internally on corporate / personnel-facing operations.

This 8-hour lecture introduces students to a broad range of important management topics and provides tools to help them apply basic best practices to their business. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify key facets of running a business, including general and administrative issues, human resources, information technology, legal concerns, marketing, advertising, and sales.
2. Describe contracts, insurance, liability, and dealing with difficult clients.
3. Explore how to establish a healthy company culture, including hiring practices and how to retain and retrain employees to reflect that culture.
4. Develop strategies for growth, from marketing and sales techniques, through construction and finally seamless hand-offs to ensure positive referrals.

Instructor(s)

Julie Kazdin, IWI

Chris Volk, IWI

Duration & Format

16 Hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Live in-person workshop only.

Course Description

Qualified swimming pool inspectors are in great demand for residential pools as part of real estate sales. In particular, prospective home buyers typically must have a pool inspected as part of the customary pre-purchase home inspection.

This 16-hour course equips industry professionals with necessary information and skills to conduct competent and cost-effective residential pool inspections through a review of national swimming pool codes and standards. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Perform a complete step-by-step residential pool inspection.
2. Identify and diagnose pool issues that are in violation of national pool codes and standards, as well as those that may lead to costly repairs.
3. Practice accurately recording all pool-issue findings.
4. Generate a complete and informative pool inspection report.

Instructor(s)

Dennis Boyd

Duration & Format

16 Hours (1.6 IACET CEUs). Live in-person workshop.

Course Description

Operating a construction business can be a rewarding experience but it also comes with great liability and responsibility. This program is the product of decades of work and experience by multiple builders, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a lawyer who has owned multiple businesses.

The 16-hour lecture is infused with a series of interactive tasks where the students analyze their own business in various ways. Students can even use their own financials to do some of the basic calculations in class, or in the privacy of their own office.

A good design/build firm needs to be on top of their game on both the external client-facing work but also internally on the corporate/personnel-facing operations.

Learning Outcomes

1. List important operational matters to consider when running a construction business, including general and administrative issues, accounting, finance and credit, human resources, information technology, legal concerns, marketing, advertising, and sales. 
2. Calculate markup to achieve an appropriate gross margin for you company considering overhead and profit. 
3. Interpret financial statements and develop strategies for growing the business, including subcontracting, leasing vs. buying equipment, return-on-investment, cash-flow management, and other important financial concerns. 
4. Discuss contracts, insurance, liability, and dealing with difficult employees or clients.

Instructor(s)

Julie Kazdin, IWI

Chris Volk, IWI

Bill Drakeley, ACI, IWI

Duration & Format

4 Hours (0.4 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

This 4-hour Business course covers the fundamentals of standardizing a pool service/repair or a pool construction business. This course explains the power of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Operations manuals, and how to create them. The goal is to learn how to systematize your business so that no matter who is operating the systems, your company continues to deliver the same results to customers every time. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Give examples of tactical work vs. strategic work in your business.
2. Define a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), and its key components.
3. Give examples of hard systems, soft systems, and information systems in a swimming pool business.
4. Identify at least four (4) aspects of a pool business that can be standardized and documented.

Instructor(s)

Eric Knight

Duration & Format

8 Hours (0.8 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

This program challenges students to compute markup based on their own financials. Students will utilize the Watershape Advisor® Estimator software developed for the watershaping industry as a platform to elevate their cost analysis and client presentation, while reducing liability exposure.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe correct markup and gross margin using accurate profit and loss financial data.
2. Discuss payment schedules, cash flow and construction contracts.
3. Identify key factors for maintaining consistent payment schedules for project fees.
4. List methods for developing accurate construction cost estimates and calculations for items such as weight of reinforcing steel, excavation volume, trenching, concrete, and other project phases.

Instructor(s)

Kevin Cobabe, IWI

Dave Peterson, P.E., IWI

Duration & Format

8 Hours (0.8 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

Financial success requires understanding the way money flows through your business, where and how it’s made, spent and invested. This course provides a blueprint for understanding and managing financial resources, with an eye toward implementing effective documentation, including profit/loss statements, balance sheets, project estimates, investment portfolios, and a range of other important financial components. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Define key concepts including cash flow, overhead and profit.
2. Examine managing key aspects of accounting and bookkeeping such as inventory, payables and receivables, and tax planning.
3. Review elements of balance sheets, project estimates, operating costs, shareholder equity, as well as accelerated and amortized depreciation.

Instructor(s)

Donna Benedetti

Duration & Format

90 minutes (0.2 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

The average pool service pro carries enough chemicals in their vehicle to accidentally cause a deadly explosion or fire. This short course covers the fundamentals of pool chemical safety. It discusses and shows examples of what NOT to do, as well as examples of proper use, handling, storage and transportation of chemicals.

Learning Outcomes

1. Learn the five (5) cardinal rules for safe chemical transportation and storage, and create a plan for how to implement them immediately.
2. Be able to distinguish between volatile and non-volatile chemicals.
3. Develop safe chemical usage, handling, storage, and transportation procedures and checklists for your company to follow.
4. Identify what items are needed to make your work vehicle(s) and workplace safe for transporting and storing pool chemicals.

Instructor(s)

Eric Knight

Miguel Chavez

Duration & Format

8 Hours (0.8 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

This course takes a comprehensive dive into both sides of water chemistry: water quality and water balance. Students will first learn the nature of water, solubility and saturation. They will then learn about water balance (physics), water quality (safe, clean, and clear), and explore the physical nature of water and why it behaves the way it does. Course content also features ways to deal with the most common water-quality problems, and how to prevent them before they start. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Define water quality in terms of chlorination, disinfection and oxidation.
2. Define water balance in terms of the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI), Henry's Law and the pH ceiling.
3. Learn about pH and its impact on virtually every aspect of water chemistry.
4. Learn how to troubleshoot and prevent the most common pool chemistry issues.

Instructor(s)

Eric Knight

Miguel Chavez

Duration & Format

8 hours (0.8 IACET CEUs).  Live in-person workshop only.

Course Description

This course covers the basics of each of the core four equipment types used on swimming pools: pumps, filters, heating, and automation.

With the help and involvement of each of the major equipment manufacturers, this class is designed to introduce how these systems work, how to identify and troubleshoot common issues, and important safety information. This course is required for each of the WU service certifications.

Learning Outcomes

1. Understand how pool pumps, filters, heaters and automation systems function, and be able to identify their components.
2. Learn how to operate and service each of the types of systems safely.
3. Learn what is and is not a warranty issue with each type of equipment.
4. Know the safety hazards involved with each equipment type, and learn what to look for to identify them.

Instructor(s)

Eric Knight

Course Description

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Learning Outcomes

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Duration & Format

90 minutes (0.2 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

Electricity and water are incompatible but with proper installation they can coexist safely. This short program provides an overview of electrical, bonding and controls with thoughtful attention to how a service professional interacts with them and what they should look for while servicing watershapes. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Explain voltage, current, resistance, voltage drop, and other key electrical terms.
2. Distinguish between high-voltage and low-voltage, grounding and bonding.
3. Formulate solutions to basic electrical problems.
4. List electrical equipment and repairs that will improve safety and your profits.

Instructor(s)

Paolo Benedetti, IWI

Duration & Format

90 minutes (0.2 IACET CEUs). Available online and in-person.

Course Description

If you are a service professional beginning to do renovation work or considering jumping into construction then this program will get you started in the right direction. The instructors began their successful construction careers exactly this way - they serviced pools and then realized that they could build better if they only had the right knowledge to reduce risk, stay out of trouble, and make money. Along their path to construction they had to navigate the legal hurdles of obtaining the right licenses, insurance and other legal protections. Then they had to source qualified subcontractors to help them succeed. With this program you have the unique opportunity to learn from others and get you building fast. 

Learning Outcomes

1. List legal considerations including licensing, contractor bonds, insurance, and sole-proprietor vs. corporation.
2. Discuss minor renovations vs. major renovations vs. new construction.
3. Identify sources for subcontractors and important criteria used in hiring.
4. Identify educational opportunities to prevent costly mistakes and learn from others' errors.

Instructor(s)

Paolo Benedetti, IWI

Dave Penton, IWI