Question 1

ENGINEERING 4411: Essential Electrical Workshop

Accepted Answer

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

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

Accreditation

Duration: 16 hours
IACET CEUs: 1.6
All students who complete the course and evaluation form receive a Certificate of Completion documenting 1.6 IACET CEUs even if they do not continue with the Certified Watershape Electrical Specialist (CWES) certification.

Delivery

There is one option:

Live In-Person

A typical course runs 8-hours per day spanning 2-consecutive days (16 hours)
Complete attendance is required
Ask questions as they come up
Manual is provided in class
Instructors are available for questions during the lectures
Travel, lodging and meals are the responsibility of the student
Watershape University provides lunch both days

Certifications

Watershape University’s ENGINEERING 4411: Essential Electrical Workshop instructs builders on safe high and low-voltage electrical systems for pools, spas and waterfeatures.

ENGINEERING 4411: Essential Electrical Workshop supports the following certifications:

Licensing and CEUs

The Certified Watershape Electrical Specialist (CWES) certification may be used for contractor licensing and required continuing education in certain jurisdictions. The CWES certification builds upon the CWF certification; therefore, all Certified Watershape Electrical Specialists (CWESs) are also CWFs which support licensing in the following jurisdictions:

Details

ENGINEERING 4411: Essential Electrical Workshop is intended for and attended by licensed electricians, builders, installers, consultants, contractors, subcontractors, and service and maintenance professionals — particularly those looking to communicate with their electricians the unique safety aspects of electrical systems related to pools, spas and waterfeatures.

Level: 4 – Senior / Advanced / Applied Theory

There are no prerequisites for ENGINEERING 4411: Essential Electrical Workshop, although CONSTRUCTION 2111: Essential Pool Construction is required for CWES certification and strongly recommended otherwise.

ENGINEERING 4411: Essential Electrical Workshop is a prerequisite for:

None

Authorized Faculty

David J. Peterson, P.E., IWI

President/CEO — Watershape Consulting, Inc.

Peterson is President/CEO of Watershape Consulting, Inc., an international planning, design and engineering firm providing owners, architects, contractors, and the legal profession with services relating to residential, commercial and institutional pools, spas and water features.

He obtained his B.S. Civil Engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and is a registered engineer in several states. Peterson has been in the watershape industry since 1994 when he began his career designing life support systems for large aquariums and marine mammal exhibits. He was Vice President Engineering at Polaris Pool Systems where he developed and patented several products.

Peterson reorganized the Genesis 3 Design Group into GENESIS® University in 2012. When GENESIS merged with the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) in 2016, Peterson became Director of Education for GENESIS, a position he held until forming Watershape University.

Paolo Benedetti, IWI

President/CEO — Aquatic Technology Pool & Spa

Paolo Benedetti is the President/CEO of Aquatic Technology Pool & Spa and Lux Environs, one of the world’s leading luxury design and build construction firms. Since 1993, Aquatic Technology has been a leader in the aquatics industry, having developed many new and cutting-edge concepts. As a licensed pool builder and general building contractor, he has managed the design or construction of residential and commercial aquatics projects, vacation resorts, and high-end luxury residences. After receiving his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, Paolo continued his post-graduate studies in construction management and technology, architecture and design, material sciences, aquatic design and hydraulics.

Over three decades in the aquatics industry he has developed a faithful following of loyal clients. Their unwavering trust in his attention to detail, evolved into a parallel firm, Lux Environs. Lux Environs was founded to provide these demanding individuals with luxury residential design and consulting services, construction management, owner’s agent – representative and quality control services. As the fiduciary for these high-net-worth individuals, he frequently collaborates with world-class architects, builders and design professionals. His creative, imaginative and ingenious insights have proven invaluable in resolving design dilemmas with cost effective solutions. Clients include heads of state, billionaires, titans of industry, celebrities, sports stars, and those that simply demand the best life has to offer.

Paolo’s projects have spanned the globe, Africa, South America, the Caribbean, Middle East, Europe and across North America. He is court recognized as an expert in construction practices, building codes and trade standards. His firms provide design & consulting services to other builders, property owners and developers; corporate training, project and process evaluations; workmanship assessments; forensic investigations; construction defect inspections; expert witness services; and personal injury litigation support.

Paolo’s work has graced the pages of Architectural Digest, Dwell, LUX, Luxury Real Estate, Residential Design/Build, Dream Home, Millionaire, Conde Naste, Ambiance Piscines, Home World, Ocean Home, LA Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and has appeared on countless TV programs. His projects have twice been granted Masters of Design Awards by Pool & Spa News Magazine. One of only 17 Masters within the Genesis Design Group, Paolo brought his talents to Watershape University upon its inception. He is currently a member of the Watershape University Leadership Team and one of a few that have achieved membership in the prestigious International Watershape Institute (IWI).

Question 2

CONSTRUCTION 3341: Essential Plumbing Workshop

Accepted Answer

If the heart of a pool is the pump and filter, then the veins and arteries are the pipes which transport the fluids or gasses critical to proper operation of the watershape. Just like in our bodies, if the circulation system is not optimized, then the whole body will not function as desired. This course not only teaches the basics for how to evaluate the plumbing system required for specific system being installed, but it also dives deeper into the specific means and methods necessary to install these elements in order to ensure the long term success of the project.

Learning Outcomes

Define proper means and methods for installing the various different plumbing systems commonly found within the swimming pool construction industry.
Employ the means and methods to practice the skills necessary to properly execute these tasks in the field.
Learn to correctly choose which materials will be appropriate for the specific scope of work for which they will be utilized.
Apply basic hydraulic rules learned in the course to determine the proper sizing of piping materials for the specific applications for which they will be utilized.

Accreditation

Duration: 12 hours (4-hours online, on-demand plus 8-hours live in-person)
IACET CEUs: 1.2
All students who complete the course and evaluation form receive a Certificate of Completion documenting 1.2 IACET CEUs even if they do not continue with the Certified Watershape Plumbing Specialist (CWPS) certification.

Delivery

There is one option:

Blended

4-hours online on-demand plus 8-hours live in-person
See schedule for upcoming live in-person classes

Online On-Demand Units:

Start online units immediately at your convenience
Available 24/7/365
Start and stop at your own pace
Repeat content as needed
The course is organized into roughly one-hour logical units of study. You can tackle one at a time or even stop after 20 minutes and start over later or simply resume where you left off.
We will send you the manual via FedEx as soon as you register but it is also available as a PDF download
Instructors are available for calls during normal business hours
No travel or lodging expenses!

Live In-Person Units:

A typical course runs 8-hours in a single day
Complete attendance is required
Ask questions as they come up
Manual is provided in class
Instructors are available for questions during the lectures
Travel, lodging and meals are the responsibility of the student
Watershape University provides lunch

Certifications

Watershape University’s CONSTRUCTION 3341: Essential Plumbing Workshop extends the general construction training of CONSTRUCTION 2111: Essential Pool Construction into a detailed hands-on plumbing installation course.

CONSTRUCTION 3341: Essential Plumbing Workshop supports the following certifications:

Licensing and CEUs

The Certified Watershape Plumbing Specialist (CWPS) certification may be used for contractor licensing and required continuing education in certain jurisdictions. The CWPS certification builds upon the CWF certification; therefore, all Certified Watershape Plumbing Specialists (CWPSs) are also CWFs which support licensing in the following jurisdictions:

Details

CONSTRUCTION 3341: Essential Plumbing Workshop is intended for and attended by builders, installers, consultants, contractors, subcontractors, and service and maintenance professionals — particularly those looking to improve their layout, measuring and solvent welding skills.

Level: 3 – Junior / Intermediate / Practical Application

There are no prerequisites for CONSTRUCTION 3341: Essential Plumbing Workshop, although CONSTRUCTION 2111: Essential Pool Construction is required for CWPS certification and strongly recommended otherwise.

CONSTRUCTION 3341: Essential Plumbing Workshop, or approved equal, is a prerequisite for the following programs:

None

Manual Table of Contents

Materials, Tools and Definitions
General Plumbing, Means and Methods
Class Project: IPS/Weld-On Certification Workshop ASME B31.3 Bonder Qualification
Pool-Specific Plumbing
Trenching & Protection
Fusion Welding
Plumbing at the Vessel
Plumbing at the Equipment Pad

Authorized Faculty

David Penton, IWI

Principal — Fluid Dynamics Pool and Spa, Inc.

David Penton, IWI, is president of Fluid Dynamics Pool & Spa Inc. – a Boutique Watershape Construction and Consulting firm located in Southern California. Fluid Dynamics is recognized around the world as one of the premier watershape construction and consulting firms within the high-end, elite estate property marketplace. Penton is also one of the principals for Ask The Masters – an Arizona based LLC focused on continuing education and mentoring for professionals working in the outdoor living space. He is a regular host of the Ask The Masters Podcast and has been a guest on CBS This Morning, the Pool Chasers Podcast and WATERtv. He is regularly featured in many trade and consumer publications. Penton is a graduate of Genesis University – where he has been an instructor and served in leadership for years as a member of the Society of Watershape Designers.

JC Escudero, IWI

President/CEO — Aquatic Technology Pool & Spa

Juan C. “JC” Escudero, has a diverse background and heritage with three different nationalities. He has traveled extensively and lived in other countries throughout his life. In 2001, he joined the pool industry and by 2009, JC had already worked on over 1,200 swimming pool projects. JC’s unique design perspective values his client wholeheartedly, ensuring the final product reflects their vision and lifestyle.

Utilizing state-of-the-art construction techniques while producing the most advanced water shapes; JC’s work speaks for itself when it comes to delivering results to last you and your family a lifetime of fun. As an SWD graduate and member of the International Watershape Institute, JC has been recognized among his peers as committed to continued-education programs. His pro-education commitment makes him an active contributor to respective industry and social media education platforms.

Currently, JC operates J Designs Pool & Spa Construction and Service divisions. Since its inception in 2008, JC has continued to exhibit his commitment to innovation with each and every project. He carefully curates each design to fit each client’s individual needs and lifestyle. Along with the design, JC oversees every aspect of the building process. He creates a safe and open line of communication for his clients to be a part of every step of the way in a very professional yet personable manner — a true pool expert.

Kevin Cobabe, IWI

President — Dynamic Pool & Spa Construction Inc.

Kevin Cobabe, IWI, is president of Dynamic Pool & Spa Construction, a custom swimming pool design and construction firm serving the greater Los Angeles area. At just 10 years old, Cobabe was introduced to the pool industry while assisting his brother-in-law in equipment installations, learning early on basic hydraulic principles of efficient plumbing installations. He jumped into the construction industry headfirst right out of high school, where he continued his pursuit of producing the perfect equipment installation a passion he continues to pursure in all his installations. He has a keen eye for detail in every aspect of watershape construction including creating works of art out of mechanical rooms. Now a 35-year industry veteran, Cobabe started his company in 2005 where he has successfully managed a multitude of high-end multi-million-dollar projects to near perfection. He gravitates toward ultra-complex projects and prefers to be challenged at every turn. He loves to pass on his knowledge and experience to others, teaching and mentoring industry colleagues seeking learn and improve their skills. He is an active managing team member of Ask the Masters and Pool Pro podcasts, and is an active supporter of Watershape University and its rich palette of educational offerings.

Question 3

CONSTRUCTION 3611: Essential Plaster Workshop

Accepted Answer

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

Establish a base line of acceptable pool concrete surface substrates and surface profiles prepped and made ready for a new plaster application.
Discuss and demonstrate (in class) plaster design and mixology with related cementitious chemistry of a typical plaster mix.
Instruct on plaster application techniques and examine texture and bond ability characteristics.
Introduce moisture and submersion of new plaster applications and teach start up and pool care techniques for the new plaster

Accreditation

Duration: 16 hours
IACET CEUs: 1.6
All students who complete the course and evaluation form receive a Certificate of Completion documenting 1.6 IACET CEUs even if they do not continue with the Certified Watershape Foreman (CWFS) certification.

Delivery

There is one option:

Live In-Person

See schedule for upcoming classes
A typical course runs 8-hours per day spanning 2-consecutive days (16 hours)
Complete attendance is required
Ask questions as they come up
Manual is provided in class
Instructors are available for questions during the lectures
Travel, lodging and meals are the responsibility of the student
Watershape University provides lunch for both days

Certifications

Watershape University’s CONSTRUCTION 3611: Essential Plaster Workshop provides the foundation for the Certified Watershape Finish Specialist (CWFS) certification.

CONSTRUCTION 3611: Essential Plaster Workshop supports the following certifications:

Licensing and CEUs

The Certified Watershape Finish Specialist (CWFS) certification may be used for contractor licensing and required continuing education in certain jurisdictions. The CWFS certification builds upon the CWF certification; therefore, all Certified Watershape Finish Specialists (CWFSs) are also CWFs which support licensing in the following jurisdictions:

Details

CONSTRUCTION 3611: Essential Plaster Workshop is intended for and attended by builders, installers, consultants, contractors, subcontractors, and service and maintenance professionals — particularly those looking to expand their construction services into plaster and aggregate interior pool finishes.

Level: 3 – Junior / Intermediate / Practical Application

A highly recommended prep class for CONSTRUCTION 3611: Essential Plaster Workshop is:

CONSTRUCTION 2111: Essential Pool Construction more→

CONSTRUCTION 3611: Essential Plaster Workshop, or approved equal, is a prerequisite for the following programs:

None

Manual Table of Contents

Why We Need an Understanding of
Plaster Application and Startup
Concrete Pools
Prepping Pools
Project – Applying Bonding Agent
Mixology
Project – Calculations/Forms
Applications
Project – Plaster Sample Applications
Review Overnight Submission
Troweling/Application
Exposure Techniques
Water Chemistry, Identify Issues
Water Chemistry Results and Prevention
Project – Samples – Surface Cleaning, Wash
Plaster Failure – Cause & Effect
Misinformation: Associations, Social
Media, Questions
Appendix: ASA Position Statements

Authorized Faculty

William T. Drakeley, ACI, IWI

President — Drakeley Pool Company

William Drakeley is an award-winning shotcrete technologist specializing in concrete science and construction, particularly shotcrete applications, techniques and standards, with thirty years (+) experience in shotcrete installation, waterfeature and geotech design and construction. Services include consultation and review, training and testing and expert testimony. He’s principal and founder of Drakeley Pool Company, a luxury design and build firm based in New England; and, Drakeley Industries, an international consulting firm focusing on shotcrete applications and techniques, notably providing training for the New York City Metropolitan Transit Authority underground tunneling projects.

An educator and advocate for high industry standards, Bill has most recently developed and launched Watershape University (WU) with colleague David Peterson, P.E. to provide the highest quality of live instruction of business, design, engineering and construction programs to students of all levels of pool, spa, aquatics and outdoor living sectors. Bill has conducted trainings for the Colorado School of Mines, the American Society of Landscape Architects (CT), World of Concrete, GENESIS 3, Aqua Show, NESPA, and others. His technical writings have been widely published in trade magazines and e-publications.

Question 4

BUSINESS 1341: Design Fees – Billing for Professional Services – IN SPANISH

Accepted Answer

Free estimates are a thing of the past. You, the professional should be paid for your experience and education, be it classroom or field work. Overcome the fear that charging for design and estimates may lose you the job. Think of your efforts as any other professional, be it Doctor, Lawyer or Accountant, charge for your services!

Learning Outcomes

Recognize profitability prior to construction.
Distinguish from the competition, demonstrate professional design service.
Compose a process to warrant charging for design and estimates.
Apply in-house psychology to embrace the fee.

Accreditation

Duration: 1 hour

IACET CEUs: 0.1

Instructor

Joan Roca, IWI

Question 5

CONSTRUCTION 1956: Understanding Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR)

Accepted Answer

Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR) is often referred to as “Concrete Cancer”, an affliction that destroys cementitious structures from within by way of a complex set of runaway chemical reactions. Builders who do not understand ASR and fail to take preventative measures become exposed to catastrophic project failures. The good news is that ASR can be reliably prevented by applying basic knowledge and proven methods. This course defines ASR in layman’s terms and covers prevention from both the technical and business perspectives.

Learning Outcomes

Define Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR), its basic chemistry and effects on concrete structures.
Examine symptoms including cracking and gel formation, and how to identify ASR.
Explore preventive measures including admixtures, aggregate selection, and waterproofing.
Discuss financial and contracting implications, and how to address ASR from a business standpoint.

Instructor

Paolo Benedetti, IWI – President/CEO — Aquatic Technology Pool & Spa

Question 6

CONSTRUCTION 2921: Profiling Outstanding Projects Start to Finish – Parts 1 & 2

Accepted Answer

WU’s Project Profile Track highlights outstanding and unique work presented by the industry’s leading designers and builders.

Learning Outcomes

Review high-end residential project profiles. Examine, project conditions, client expectations and design challenges.
Describe the collaborative process with clients and other project team members.
List design changes, engineering considerations, project limitations, design and detail execution.
Discuss completed projects and learning experiences/takeaways.

Instructors

Bill Drakeley, IWI
Brian Van Kirk
Erik Eikevik, IWI
Brett Holland, IWI

Question 7

CONSTRUCTION 3251: Pier and Beam Construction

Accepted Answer

This is a look at multiple projects using pier and beam foundations to support watershapes on hillsides or poor soils. These projects are not part of Watershape University’s CONSTRUCTION 4112: Essential Advanced Watershapes – Residential course – instead, we take a totally different approach with these project profiles because every project has different considerations, issues to solve, and surprises that will challenge any builder’s expected means and methods.

Learning Outcomes

Identify site and programming parameters that demand a need for a pier and beam foundation.
Recognize common challenges, solutions and errors that contractors encounter while building with caissons, timber piles, helical piles, auger cast piles, etc.
Inspect photos of pier and beam foundations to comprehend the sequence of operation and challenges of working on difficult sites.
Judge the cost in time, money and reputation to builders who fail to obtain soils reports and follow best practices when a project should have had a proper foundation.