SPMC is proud to offer certification classes for different aquatic needs. These courses are targeted towards pool maintenance. If you are interested in becoming a CMS or CST, please reach out to us at info@searspool.com.
Certified Pool Operator (CPO)
The Certified Pool Operation (CPO®) course is designed to provide individuals with the basic knowledge, techniques, and skills of pool and spa operations. The Certified Pool/Spa Operator® certification program has delivered more training than any other program in the pool and spa industry since 1972, resulting in more than 400,000 successful CPO® certifications in 93 countries. Many state and local health departments accept the CPO® certification program.
SPMC requires its full-time Maintenance Supervisors to have their CPO certification. Craig Sears, President of SPMC, is a Certified Instructor for the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA).
Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS)
The Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS) course is appropriate for new and seasonal service employees, as well as for all individuals with a pool-cleaning route. The course is only 2 1/2 days and focuses on basic water chemistry, circulation and filtration, water balancing, pool math, electrical safety, and routine maintenance. It also covers best practices for safety, customer service, and professionalism.
Certified Service Technician (CST)
The Certified Service Technician (CST) course provides education on the technical aspects of pool and spa maintenance and operation. The focus of this program is understanding the proper operations of all equipment and then learning how to troubleshoot the problems that often occur with that equipment. There are not any work experience prerequisites, but the APSP recommends that anyone attending this course have a minimum of 1-2 years of technical pool/spa work experience. The course exam requires the ability to apply technical knowledge to situations encountered in the field. Students do not need to have completed the CMS certification prior to the CST exam but will be expected to have acquired the core knowledge covered in that course.
