Dive into the fascinating topic of cement. Cement 101 will define the key differences in cements relative to our industry. This session will give you a well-rounded understanding of cement with an emphasis on ASTM Standards, cement production processes, physical characteristics, and insight into where technology is headed.

Finding quality construction employees continues to be a challenge and retaining quality employees is even more difficult. In this session, we’ll examine what MMG has done to engage and effectively communicate with its employees, both in the field and in the office. We’ll discuss how we focus on internal training opportunities provided for both employees and subcontractors and our TEAM approach to motivation and employee engagement.

This class is an overview of renovations for those beginning to do renovations or thinking about it. We will cover how renovations might help your business, the basics of estimating, the basics of the renovation work, problems to avoid, and opportunities to take advantage of.

A Deep Dive into Algae offers a sophisticated analysis of algae formation, growth, and mitigation strategies, drawing from the latest research and industry expertise, including findings from Rudy Stankowitz and the groundbreaking work documented on www.cpoclass.com & www.researchgate.net.  The course delves into the nuances of cyanobacteria (black algae), examining the environmental and chemical variables contributing to algae proliferation and how pool materials, including plaster composition, can indirectly support algae growth. We will also explore potential direct aesthetical biodeterioration, a well-known algal influence on plaster, and cyanotoxins’ toxicological aspects. With a focus on scientific precision and actionable solutions, this course goes beyond essential remediation. It offers a deeper understanding of the cellular biology of algae, advanced chemical interventions, and the critical role of maintenance practices in preventing long-term infestations. This course is ideal for professionals seeking to refine their expertise. It equips you with cutting-edge tools to ensure aesthetics and the control of photosynthetic nuisances in every pool you build or service. Expect to emerge with a mastery of algae management that enhances your professional practice, grounded in theory and application.

This nuts & bolts course covers all you need to know to organize multiple crews and jobs into a full yet manageable schedule. Organization of the essentials, including equipment, materials, labor, logistics, oversight, and communications, enables you and your team to seamlessly coordinate pool jobs while considering conditions that impact your workload and job site. From parts and inventory to vendors, weather, travel, operations, accounting, internal and customer communications, and more, this course provides examples, tools, and methods used by 2 members on how to get the job done efficiently and on time.

Learn the basics regarding materials used for swimming pool plastering. What types of pigments perform best, and why? The balance between achieving vivid colors and achieving long-lasting colors. The use of admixtures with polymers and pozzolan that add workability or durability; modifiers that control set, rheology, and water demand; and the NPC recommended method for dosing and mixing. And, learn the basic differences between the materials used for swimming pool plastering versus those used for concrete construction, and why?

This class will begin with a historical overview of the early challenges, materials, and application methods in the industry. We will cover standard terms and definitions, and then delve deeply into material science and compatibility. Why Damproofing is necessary and areas of concern. The session will focus on work performed by others versus self-performed work. We will conclude the session with a discussion of the current state of damproofing for pools and a Q&A session.

Learning Objectives
• History of Damproofing in submerged application and plaster finishes
• Definitions, applicable codes, standards and recommendations
• What to look for in a properly dampproofed pool
• Current challenges and material compaibility
• Chemical vs. Mechanical bond

Start up begins before the pool is full. Terry Arko will present the best basic water chemistry techniques for starting and maintaining the pool throughout the seasons. This will include: proper chemistry steps, water balance, LSI, disinfection, CYA and algae prevention. Question and answer time is allowed at the end as well.

This program includes a panel discussion, followed by an open forum question and answer session. A panel of industry professionals moderated by Skip Phillips, Master CBP and co-founder of GENESIS® will openly discuss watertight vessels, which are paramount to successful projects and plastering of complicated designs and solutions. During this panel discussion, several experts representing various trades within the industry will share their challenges, apprehensions, experiences, and potential solutions.

A Deep Dive into Cyanuric Acid is designed for pool builders and plasterers interested in an advanced level explanation, offering a thorough exploration of cyanuric acid’s functions, its interactions with other pool chemicals, and the long-term effects on pool plaster and maintenance. In this session, you’ll gain an advanced understanding of the complex challenges posed by over-stabilization as well as some misconceptions. We will cover copper cyanurate formation—what it is and the role of pool chemistry. Additionally, you’ll explore innovative techniques for reducing cyanuric acid levels, including the use of aluminum sulfate (alum) to effectively lower CYA concentrations without draining the pool, a method pioneered by industry experts and explored on www.cpoclass.com. We will also delve into the latest research on cyanuric acid’s interaction with chlorine and its impact on sanitation, ORP, and focusing on the need to avoid overstabilization. I think a few words on stain removal, though off topic, may find it’s way into this session as well. Designed for entrepreneurial thinkers and industry professionals eager to refine their expertise, this course is the definitive guide to mastering the intricacies of cyanuric acid in pool environments.

This class is 2 hours and provides .2 CEUs