Eighteen pool technicians in the Virgin Islands have been certified after completing a two-day Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) training programme held at Maria’s By the Sea on June 27 and 28, 2025. Photo: KAD Pool Services Ltd

The training programme was organised and conducted by KAD Pool Services Limited, which has been operating in the Virgin Islands since July 2012. Photo: KAD Pool Services Ltd

Following the two-day, 62-hour training, participants had to take an exam. Despite the challenges, all 18 individuals passed. Photo: KAD Pool Services Ltd

This programme was organised and conducted by KAD Pool Services Limited, which has been operating in the Virgin Islands since July 2012. The aim was to add a level of professionalism to the swimming pool service industry.

International certification

Dion Anselm, Managing Director of KAD Pool Services Limited, stated, “The reason for this training is that I realised most of my technicians and many workers in the BVI were not pool certified for their field of work. I decided to offer this training in the BVI so they could treat pools and maintain them at a professional level.”

He emphasised that certification is important for everyone, as it can be used when applying for jobs elsewhere in the world, stating, “With this certificate, they can find work if they decide to move from the BVI to the US, France, or anywhere else since it is an international certification.”

“We focused on giving back to the community through this initiative. We had participants from the technical studies school in Baugher's Bay as well as local community members. This way, when companies are looking for technicians, we won't have to look outside of the territory; we will be ready to hire certified individuals,” Anselm explained.

‘Essential to train VIslanders’- Anselm

This annual initiative aims to enhance the skill set of locals in the pool industry.

Anselm noted, “Every year, the training focuses on different aspects of pool technology. Last year, we conducted aqua call training; this year, we opted for the CPO course. We plan to do pet care training next year. It’s an ongoing effort in a variety of fields.”

Following the two-day, 62-hour training, participants had to take an exam. Despite the challenges, all 18 individuals passed.

Anselm reflected on the success of this year’s training, stating, “I think one of the greatest things a company can do is invest in their workers and provide them with the training they need.”

'Proper service' can be expected

With certification, customers can expect proper service, as the technicians gain knowledge of everything related to pool maintenance, including safety protocols and equipment usage.

When discussing the pool industry in the Virgin Islands, Anselm remarked, “I believe this training will have a great impact on customer service. The pool industry is growing as more people want to have pools in their homes, so we must prepare for this growth by educating our technicians.”

He encouraged the younger generation to pursue careers in skilled trades such as plumbing, pool technology, and electrical work, which are areas that require more local professionals.

"It’s essential that we train BV Islanders to fulfil these roles, as we often have to look outside our territory for workers, especially for contracts we have in various locations," Anselm concluded.