National Aquatic Conference makes a splash in Austin.

There is a saying that everything is bigger in Texas--that certainly held true for the 416 attendees of the National Aquatic Conference who were treated to educational sessions, off-site learning opportunities, an exciting exhibit hall, special certifications and nationally known speakers.

The week began with about 130 aquatic professionals participating in the National Aquatic Management School, receiving certificates that show their knowledge is current in aquatic trends and issues when managing aquatic facilities.

Some attendees also opted to sit through the Aquatic Facility Operator courses, to then take the test and become AFO[TM]-certified. In addition to these education schools, two new workshops were offered in advanced water quality and aquatic facility technician training.

While some participants learned in the classroom, others toured aquatic facilities in Austin to learn from example. The group went to the Lee and Joe Jamail Texas Swimming Center at the University of Texas, which is one of the world's top swimming and diving facilities. It is also considered one of the fastest pools in the world.

The tour continued to Texas' first outdoor public pool called Deep Eddy, built in 1916, then went to Barton Springs Pool--three acres in size and fed from an underground springs, the pool stays 68 degrees year-round.

One of the highlights of the conference was keynote speaker Mimi Donaldson who spoke on gender differences in the workplace. Her address not only educated those in attendance, but drew laughs from both men and women. Speaking about how men and women communicate differently, she said, "Women talk to relax, while men talk to get things. It is no wonder that men use 15,000 words a day versus women who use 25,000!" She continued to say that men and women need to understand their differences before they can communicate effectively.

In addition to learning, attendees didn't forget to have fun. Though Texas may be larger than life, it was no match for this vivacious group.

NAB Council Creates Strategic Plan

Changes in the aquatic business are fast and furious, turning yesterday's best practices into planning process relics. Technology is undoubtedly the impetus for many of these changes, whether it is an increased ability to track aquatic maintenance spending, using Web-enabled tools to promote programs and register your attendees, or--to your dismay--finding that 30 percent of your regular aquatic users have found discounted aquatic rates at neighboring facilities, rather than opting to purchase an annual swimming pass or register for programs with your agency.

Understanding these changes is the first step towards aquatic planning excellence. As fast as the industry is moving, aquatic professionals must take the time to research new trends and find out how to grow their careers. Fortunately, the time has never been better to launch your skills to new levels.

The National Aquatic Branch (NAB) is realizing that it's not enough to have professionals who can pull together the logistics of a special event or celebration. Rather, it needs professionals who have the skills, tools and focus necessary to execute operations in a way that will further their organization's goals and the safety of their participants.

With all of that in mind, the members of the National Aquatic Branch Council met Feb. 28 to begin the process of developing a Strategic Plan for NAB. The Council attended a nine-hour retreat, led by John Whitmore from Denton, Texas, to discuss the importance of the National Aquatic Branch and how the branch must strive to support the organizational objectives of NRPA and become more active on a national level.

Some critical issues that were identified through a survey to NAB members and the council include; legislative participation, partnership development, the changing perception of aquatic professionals, certification proliferation, the AFO program, improving communication in the branch, professional development of members, resource shortages for aquatic facilities, improving branch planning, supporting Council leadership, and revenue generation to support the branch, NRPA and the scholarship fund. These issues were reviewed at the general meeting of the branch during the National Aquatic Conference. More than 60 branch members provided input and feedback on the actions steps to take to resolve the critical issues.

Some of the attendees were asked how they felt about the retreat, and most were impressed. Stephanie Shook, Southern Region representative said, "Being new to the council, I didn't know what to expect. I'm glad to say that I was very impressed. During our retreat, I saw a high level of professionalism, mutual respect amongst members, and a tireless dedication to the field of aquatics."

Here's to striving for excellence every day, whether on the job or in the pool. Turn to the NAB to keep up with the latest industry trends and strategies that will help hone your skills and sharpen your aquatic planning and safety tactics.

AQUATIC AWARDS GIVEN

At the opening session of the National Aquatic Conference, the Aquatic Branch awards were given out to agencies that continue to make a difference in its community. Congratulations to all award winners:

Class I--Over 650,000 City of Austin Parks & Recreation Department, Austin, Texas

Class II--250,000-650,000 Greenville County, Recreation District, Taylors, S.C.

Class IV--50,000-100,000 City of Denton Parks & Recreation, Aquatic Section, Denton, Texas

Class V--20,000-50,000 Derby Recreation Commission, Derby, Kan.

Class VI--Under 20,000 Coralville Parks & Recreation Department, Coralville, Iowa 

Class IX--Elementary/Jr./Sr. High Schools Brownsville Independent School District, Brownsville, Texas 

Class XI--Military Bases Marine Corps Community Services, Okinawa, Japan