After two years in the infamous Entertainment Capital of the World, the Pool | Spa | Patio Expo / Deck Expo is making its move from Las Vegas back to Dallas, Texas. Exhibitors and attendees alike can enjoy the last few waves of the Texas heat before winter comes across America for the season.
The show opens with its typical pre-conference education session on Saturday, November 9. On November 11, the PHTA Awards of Excellence winners will be honored from 5 to 7 p.m., recognizing their show-stopping installations of pools, spas, hot tubs and water features that highlight the endless design possibilities within the industry.
Also on the night of November 11, the annual Watershape Tailgate will take place at Gilley’s, a nearby event center in Dallas. Enjoy the fun from 6 to 9 p.m. before the Expo hits the ground running the following morning.
The exhibits and core conference start on Tuesday, November 12 with a Keynote from Alan Stein, Jr., a professional basketball performance coach, consultant and author.
Later that evening, the Welcome Party, sponsored by Lyon Financial, will officially welcome attendees to the Expo. Attendees and vendors can mingle, grab food and drinks and enjoy some entertainment.
The following day, November 13, will include the presentation of the Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge, where designers were invited to enter and design a show-stopping outdoor space with a hypothetical million-dollar budget. Five finalists will present their designs during a session at the expo, and live voting will determine the winners, who will receive a cash prize.
The night of the 13, from 6 to 9 p.m., is where you’ll find the fourth annual Pool Nation Awards. Experience one of the most decorated nights in the industry as individuals in various categories are voted the best of the best by their peers.
Keep reading for a comprehensive list of exhibitors, education opportunities and an event guide for this year’s PSP Expo / Deck Expo.
SATURDAY, NOV. 9
8:00 a.m.
- Pool Nation Conference HOIPS-101: Chemical Automation 101: Hands-On Pool Chemical Management — Day 1 of 2
- Pool Nation Conference HOP201: Hands-On Pump Installation, Programming and Repairs — Day 1 of 2
- C201: GENESIS CONSTRUCTION SCHOOL: Concrete Pools — Day 1 of 3
- C393: GENESIS Construction Superintendent: Connecting the Field with the Home Office — Day 1 of 2
- Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS) — Day 1 of 3
- Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) en Español — Day 1 of 2
- Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) — Day 1 of 2
- Certified Service Technician (CST) — Day 1 of 3
- D211: GENESIS Elements of Design — Day 1 of 2
- D231: GENESIS Color Theory & Its Application — Day 1 of 2
- Watershapes University C2111: Essential Pool Construction — Day 1 of 3
- Watershapes University C2241: Quality Shotcrete Placement for Pools – Know It, Demand It
- Watershapes University C3611: Essential Plaster Workshop — Day 1 of 2
- Watershapes University C4113: Essential Advanced Watershape – Commercial — Day 1 of 2
- Watershapes University D1111: Essential Perspective Drawing Workshop
- Watershapes University D4511: Beyond the Vessel – Outdoor Living & Landscape Design + Construction — Day 1 of 2
8:30 a.m.
- Pool Nation Conference HR-102: Building a Team of Teams: Collaborative Strategies for Success
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1001: Elevating Pool Care: The Comprehensive Responsibilities of a Modern Pool Pro
10:15 a.m.
- Pool Nation Conference HR-101: Interviewing and Hiring: Using the Behavior-Based Method
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1002: Precision in Pool Chemistry: Proper Testing, Dosing & Targeted Pool Care
- Pool Nation Conference HOH201: Hands-On Pool Heater Installation and Repair Workshop — Day 1
- Pool Nation Conference HOPL101: Pool Lighting 101: Fundamentals of Pool Lighting — Day 1
12:45 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1003: Understanding Chemicals: Choosing the Right Chemicals for Every Pool
- Pool Nation Conference COACH-103: Coaching for Performance
1:00 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference LDHO101: Precision Pool Leak Detection: Techniques and Tools for Success — Day 1
1:15 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference HOH202: Advanced Pool Heater Troubleshooting and Repair Workshop — Day 1
2:00 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1004: Proactive Pool Care vs Reactive: Utilizing Specialty Chemicals & Minerals to Elevate Your Game
2:30 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference ACC-101: Getting Results Through Accountability
3:15 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1005L: The Importance of Safety: Saving Lives and Limiting Liability
3:30 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference HOTA-101: Automation 101: Hands-On Pool Automation Panel Wiring — Day 1
4:15 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference COMM-105: Effective Communication for You and Your Team
SUNDAY, NOV. 10
8:00 a.m.
- Pool Nation Conference HOIPS-101: Chemical Automation 101: Hands-On Pool Chemical Management — Day 2 of 2
- Pool Nation Conference HOP201: Hands-On Pump Installation, Programming and Repairs — Day 2 of 2
- Watershapes University D4511: Beyond the Vessel – Outdoor Living & Landscape Design + Construction — Day 2 of 2
- C201: GENESIS CONSTRUCTION SCHOOL: Concrete Pools — Day 2 of 3
- C393: GENESIS Construction Superintendent: Connecting the Field with the Home Office — Day 2 of 2
- Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS) — Day 2 of 3
- Certified Pool & Spa Hot Tub Technician (CHTT) — Day 1 of 2
- Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) en Español — Day 2 of 2
- Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) — Day 2 of 2
- Certified Service Technician (CST) — Day 2 of 3
- D211: GENESIS Elements of Design — Day 2 of 2
- D231: GENESIS Color Theory & Its Application — Day 2 of 2
- Watershapes University C2111: Essential Pool Construction — Day 2 of 3
- Watershapes University C3611: Essential Plaster Workshop — Day 2 of 2
- Watershapes University C4113: Essential Advanced Watershape – Commercial — Day 2 of 2
- Watershapes University C4311: Advanced Fluid Engineering Workshop — Day 2 of 2
- Watershapes University D2611: Essential Color Theory, Materials & Textures Workshop
9:00 a.m.
- Biolab Retail Classes BLR101: Effective Employee Onboarding: Strategies for Success in the Pool Industry
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1006: The Science of Algae: Identifying, Preventing, and Eliminating Pool Algae
10:15 a.m.
- Biolab Retail Classes BLR102: Coaching for Success: Empowering Teams for Peak Performance
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1007: Advanced Water Chemistry: Target vs Range and Understanding LSI
- Pool Nation Conference HOH201: Hands-On Pool Heater Installation and Repair Workshop — Day 2 of 2
- Pool Nation Conference HOPL101: Pool Lighting 101: Fundamentals of Pool Lighting — Day 2
12:45 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1008: Advanced Sanitizers: Understanding Ozone, UV, and AOP for You & Your Customers Benefit
- Biolab Retail Classes BLR103: Mastering Merchandising: Strategies for Pool Retail Store Success
1:00 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference LDHO101: Precision Pool Leak Detection: Techniques and Tools for Success — Day 2
- Watershapes University D4551: The Pool House – An Indispensable Guide — Day 1 of 2
1:15 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference HOH202: Advanced Pool Heater Troubleshooting and Repair Workshop — Day 2
2:00 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1009: New Plaster Startups: Do’s and Don’ts
2:30 p.m.
- Biolab Retail Classes BLR104: Unlocking Growth: Advanced Marketing Techniques for Pool Retail
3:30 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference HOTA-101: Automation 101: Hands-On Pool Automation Panel Wiring — Day 2
3:45 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference PRO 1010: Effective Acid Washing: Procedures, Pitfall, and Precautions
- Biolab Conference BLC105: Customer Acquisition Mastery: Growing Your Pool Retail Business
MONDAY, NOV. 11
8 a.m.
- Certified Pool & Spa Inspector (CPI)
- Certified Pool & Spa Inspector (CPI) en Español
- GENESIS E331: A Comparison of Heating Options for Pools and Spas
- C201: GENESIS CONSTRUCTION SCHOOL: Concrete Pools — Day 3 of 3
- Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS) — Day 3 of 3
- Certified Pool & Spa Hot Tub Technician (CHTT) — Day 2 of 2
- Certified Service Technician (CST) — Day 3 of 3
- D291: GENESIS: How to Progressively Introduce Wellness into Your Business Model
- National Plasters Council Start-Up Technician Certification Course
- Watershapes University B3461: Dollars and Sense – Understanding and Managing Business Finance
- Watershapes University C2111: Essential Pool Construction — Day 3 of 3
- Watershapes University C4311: Advanced Fluid Engineering Workshop — Day 2 of 2
- Watershapes University D2211: Essential Principles of Design Workshop
- Watershapes University D4551: The Pool House – And Indispensable Guide — Day 2 of 2
- Watershapes University S1211: Basic Water Chemistry
8:30 a.m.
- Pool Nation Conference BRAND-1016: Mastering Branding: Building a Strong Identity for Your Business
9 a.m.
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1011: The Impact of Water Balance: Balancing Chemistry to Protect Your Equipment
- Pool Nation Conference: AquaStar & Raypak Plumbing-101: Plumbing a Pool Pad: Mastering Installation and Maintenance
- Significant Change Update: 2021 and 2024 ISPSC (International Swimming Pool & Spa Code)
9:45 a.m.
- Pool Nation Conference GROW-1017: Scaling and Growth: Strategies for Business Expansion
10:15 a.m.
- Pool Nation Conference PLRO-1012: Navigating New Plaster Issues: From Identification to Resolution
11:30 a.m.
- Pool Nation Conference MKT-1018: Mastering Modern Marketing: Strategies for Growth
12:45 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference PRO-1013: Chemical Awareness and Safety: Ensuring Compliance and Protection
1 p.m.
- C220: GENESIS Electrical Elements of Pools
1:15 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference EC-401: Electrical Connections for Pool Equipment Pad: Hands-On Training
1:30 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference FIN-1009: Financials and Profitability: Maximizing Your Business Success
2:30 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference SALT-1014: Mastering Salt Pools: Comprehensive Care and Maintenance
2:45 p.m.
- Pool Nation Conference FIN-101: Financial Planning and Exit Strategy: Securing Your Business Future
5 p.m.
- PHTA Awards of Excellence Reception
TUESDAY, NOV. 12
8 a.m.
- 12 Characteristics of a Great Designed Small Space
- GENESIS C252: Science, Math, and Art: 3 Essential Ingredients for Installing Seamless, Long Lasting and Beautiful All Tile Pools
- GENESIS D151A: The Art of Innovation
- Hazardous Materials & Proper Handling for Pool Pros
- Turn Your Team Into A Championship Team: Hiring, Training, Management, Motivation and Retention
- Watershapes University: Introduction to Finance and Estimating
9:15 a.m.
- Day 1 Keynote: Raise Your Game w/ Alan Stein, Jr.
11 a.m.
- Be At Your Best Every Day: 5 Principles to Consistent Sales Success
- Decks Done Right: Footings, Post Bases, and Beams
- Finding Leaks – Turning Headaches into Profits
- GENESIS C322: Construction Management: An Insight into a Functional Team
- GENESIS D166: A Simulated First Meeting: How to Decode What the Client Shows You, Into What The Client Actually Wants
- GENESIS D163: How to Transform a Regular Fiberglass Vessel into a Luxurious Perimeter Overflow Project
- Swimming Pool Water Techniques with Basecrete: A Hands-On Class
- Watershapes University C2240: Pool Shotcrete Inspection and Quality Application
11:30 a.m.
- Rewards/Loyalty Program
- DECKx Talk: “Fail to Plan & Plan to Fail: The Blueprint for Business Success”
12 p.m.
- From the Field to the Forefront: Practical Knowledge for Outdoor Living Contractors
12:15 p.m.
- GENESIS C310: Advanced Tile Cutting Techniques for Pools, Spas, and Water Features
12:30 p.m.
- 5 Marketing Mistakes Pool, Spa and Deck Entrepreneurs are Making
- Get Your Story to Resonate Online to Boost Your Revenue: Digital Communications & Advertising
1 p.m.
- A Picture’s Worth a Thousand Words
- Builder Power Panel
- Decks Done Right: Tony McClem: Hollywood Decks
- Hot Water Spa Chemistry: It’s Not Just a Little Pool
- Keep Pools Safe & Open: Tips on Operations, Elevated Pools, Drain covers (VGBA)
- Learn How Advertising on Amazon Prime Video, HULU & More (CTV/Video Streaming) Improves Your Return on Ad Spend
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Development
- Watershapes University E2956: Pool Shell Failures with ASR – Forensic Evaluations
1:30 p.m.
- Big Ticket Sales
- DECKx Talk: “Know Your Numbers: The Key to Unlock Business Growth”
- GENESIS D177: Architecture: How the Ranch and Mid-Century Modern Home Shaped the Way We Live Outdoors Today!
2 p.m.
- Decked Out Marketing: Elevate Your Business
- Women Blossom and Lead Workshop: Discover Who You Are – And Own It!
2:15 p.m.
- Decks Done Right: Lateral Connections, Joists, Joist Hangers
- Enhance Your Digital Footprint & Generate Better Leads
- Leaders Enhance Life
- Pool Chemistry Troubleshooting: The Top Issues That Keep Us Up At Night
- Solar Pool Heating for Beginners: Basic Design, Installation, and Troubleshooting
- Visual Merchandising To Increase Sales
- Watershapes University C2252: Concrete Defect Identification and Prevention
2:30 p.m.
- 9 Ways AI Can Help You Book More Jobs This Year
- Service Management: Part Three of the Balanced Business Approach
3 p.m.
- Outdoor Living Biophilic Design
- PHTA / WAVE: How to Grow Yourself and Your Business
3:30 p.m.
- Top 3 Immediate Impacts: How Do We Keep People in the Store
- Decks Done Right: Corrosion & Pressure Treated Wood
- DECKx Talk: “Profit Habits: A Guaranteed Strategy for Permanent Profitability”
4 p.m.
- GENESIS E106: Hiring An Engineer without Remorse
- Network & Blossom Happy Hour
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13
8 a.m.
- Deck Business Growth Playbook: Advanced Marketing Strategies for the Digital Age
- Fast Friends: Quickly Bond with Your Clients to Discover What They Really Want
- Future-Proof Your Business: 10 Game-Changing Digital Marketing Strategies for 2025
- GENESIS C307: Construction at Difficult Sites
- GENESIS D205: Design for the Pool Construction Professional
- Liner Measurement from Novice to Pro
- Transforming Swimming Pool & Spa Floors
9:15 a.m.
- Day 2 Keynote: Economic Trends: Navigating Business Challenges and Opportunities in Pool & Hot Tub Industry
11 a.m.
- Boost Your Revenue by Becoming a Trusted Expert for Your Customers
- GENESIS C171: Project Profiles: An Interactive Discussion on Design and Construction Grass Edge Overflow, Clear Underwater Panels and More
- GENESIS D182: Visual Storytelling for Sales and Design
- GENESIS D113: Forecasting Design and Market Trends
- Leveraging Generative AI for Small Business Efficiency: Practical Strategies and Tools
- Load Center Wiring Instruction: Low Voltage & Bonding
- Watershapes University C3923: Removal and Replacement of a Defective Rooftop Pool
11:30 a.m.
- Holding Store Events
- DECKx Talk: “Seal the Deal: Secrets to a 90% Close Ratio”
- SpaRetailer/PoolPro Power Women: Overcoming Career Obstacles and Challenges
12 p.m.
- Deck Power Panel: Marketing to the Max: Craft Creative Marketing Campaigns
12:30 p.m.
- Autoship Programs
1 p.m.
- Deck Power Panel: Elevate Your Decking Business to the Next Level
- Algae: What You Need to Know
- Decks Done Right: Ledgers
- Exploring Transition Options: What We’ve Learned
- Retail Innovations: Utilizing Digital Signage in Your Showroom to Transform Your Sales
- Service Professionals Power Panel: Navigating Challenges and Ensuring Safety in the Pool Service Industry
- Showcasing Your Worth Without Ruffling Some Feathers!
- Watershapes University D2511: Add Revenue From Water and Wellness: Current Trends and Strategies
1:30 p.m.
- Creating a Store Culture
- DECKx Talk: “From Guesswork to Guaranteed Profits: How to Fix Your Estimates”
- GENESIS C253: Dampproofing (Waterproofing) for Remodels
- Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge
2 p.m.
- Maximizing Revenue with Exclusive Leads and Financing Options
2:15 p.m.
- Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Mastering Fiberglass Pool Installation
- Bright Pools, Happy Customers: Upgrading Pool Performance with VS Pump Skills
- Decks Done Right: Corrosion & Pressure Treated Wood
- Bright Pools, Happy Customers: Upgrading Pool Performance with VS Pump Skills (En Español)
- Engaging Gen Z+: Strategies to Attract & Retain Top Talent in the Pool, Spa, and Patio Industry
- Why Sauna, Why Now?
- Watershapes University B1121: Operating Philosophies & Policies
2:30 p.m.
- Navigating Success: Insights from Industry Leaders in the Swimming Pool Sector
3 p.m.
- Crafting the Perfect Fence Enclosure: A Blueprint for Fence Contractors and Pool Contractors
- PHTA: Service Profitability: Turning Your Service Department into a Strategic Advantage (IHTA)
3:30 p.m.
- DECKx Talk: “Buy Back Your Time: How to Build a Team of A-Players”
4 p.m.
- GENESIS D242: Developing Your Skills in Pool Photography
- Lead Like a Woman
6 p.m.
- Pool Nation Awards
THURSDAY, NOV. 14
8 a.m.
- All About Pumps, Filters & Hydraulics
- Designing, Planning & Installing a Gas Fire Pit
- Developing a 12-month Marketing Calendar
- Preparing for Your Future with an Exit Plan
- Retail Power Panel
9:15 a.m.
- Driving Results Through Effective Communication
- GENESIS C209: Damp-Proofing: 3 Key and Important Steps That Are Commonly Overlooked!
- Optimizing Pool Performance: A Comprehensive Guide to Chemical Pump Maintenance for Pool Professionals
- SPANISH GENESIS D220: Pool Design: Meeting Your Client’s Great Expectations
- Watershapes University E2731: Structural Repairs of Existing Pools
10:30 a.m.
- Chemical Automation Done Right
- Developing Leaders in Your Company
- The Top 10 Employment Law Mistakes Most Commonly Made by Construction Contractors (and how to avoid them!)
- Developing a Highly Successful Referral Program
11 a.m.
- Category Shift to Glass Railing
- GENESIS D183: Wellness and Design: How to Discuss and Design with Wellness in Mind
12 p.m.
- Leveraging BIM: How Designers Specify Products in the Modern Era
12:30 p.m.
- GENESIS C112: Stop Blaming the Tile: Misunderstanding Common Pool Tile Failures
1 p.m.
- Elevating Success: Implementing Educational Training and Rewards in a Pro Rewards Program
