Working in a Male-Dominated Field
by Andrea Lynne Nannini
Wikipedia: A swimming pool service technician (known colloquially as a pool man) is a tradesperson who cleans swimming pools and services major pool equipment such as pumps, motors, and filters. Pool Girl Power
Et tu, Wikipedia?
While there are many different aspects to the industry and very different areas of expertise, we are all known as ‘The Pool Guy. As a service tech, I know that my job is usually perceived as easy. I hear things like, “I wish I had your job!” and “I’m jealous! You get to be out in the sun all day!” Most people don’t realize the work-out you get from servicing a pool or how much walking and heavy lifting is involved. We are viewed as ‘the help .’
Men see a woman in a truck and WTF?!
In traffic, my pool truck is the target of road rage more often than my vehicle. Usually, we are portrayed as dumb in movies and on television. For this reason, I don’t think we are given enough credit for the work we do or the knowledge we possess. Anyone can clean a pool, but it takes an educated and dedicated person to maintain a safe and healthy swimming environment.
“This morning while waiting in line to buy water for the day, I overheard a mother telling her daughter “See that woman behind us? She’s just a pool woman. She probably made bad decisions and skipped school too much. Now, instead of having a career and a life, she is only qualified enough to clean swimming pools. You don’t want that do you?”
Amy Lamothe, Swimming Pool Service Tech, Ontario CAN
I can do anything they can do just as well, if not better
In addition to the usual “Pool Guy” stigma, being female in a male-dominated industry has presented a completely different set of challenges. Questioning looks and condescending tones are ordinary, primarily when a problem occurs. Resolving issues becomes more complex and takes longer because of the extra effort required to prove oneself. It can be very frustrating, and it can come from customers and co-workers, male or female, and even some industry professionals.
“A customer came into our pool store today and asked me dozens of questions. Chemical specifics, flow rates, salt system functionality…he’s an engineer so he knows everything, of course. Ten minutes later, looks at me and says “You’re a lot smarter than you look.”
– Erin Thibodeau, Swimming Pool Supply Store Mgr, Pensacola Fl.
“Pool Girls” have always been a regular thing for me. My mother got a job as a service tech when I was about 15, and I got a job with the same company at 18. There were already several women working there, in the office, and as techs. I was trained by a brilliant woman who had years of experience.
It’s not just the men that give us grief!
“It’s a man job . That’s my opinion . And I’m a woman saying that . Brushing pools at every visit during the summer really takes it’s tole . I did it for a year and hired a man .”
Anonymous, Owner, Pool Service Company, Gainesville Fl.
Since becoming a certified pool operator, I have learned so much more about taking care of a pool and the swimmers. I was already a self-proclaimed ‘water snob,’ even going so far as to test the water I was drinking with my Taylor test kit. Sometimes I have to hold myself back from explaining my test results when I see people drinking certain bottled water brands.
A pioneer in the industry chimes in
“Women in construction are typically judged more closely than their male counterparts. When I started in the pool construction industry, I quickly realized that my best plan was to immerse myself in the industry and learn as much as possible. I studied and obtained my Certified Building Contractor (CBP) from APSP and take as many Continuing Education hours as possible yearly to stay abreast of current topics, trends and education”.
“When Texas required a Texas Appliance Installer License for Service, I obtained that license. It was hard and challenging, but it stretched my knowledge. Women have to work harder, yet smarter, and we must demand respect when none is given.”
– Debra Smith, President, Pulliam Pools, Fort Worth, TX
Some things are funny, like the guy who said he could never understand how women could clean pools because of how hard it is. I shrugged and smiled as I walked away with my 50lb bag of bi-carb over my shoulder. Some things are not easy to shrug off, like when the unfortunate, inappropriate comments are overheard.
I work like a girl. Try to keep up!
“I happen to be a woman pool tech, a damn good one and pool service company owner (In direct response to the anonymous comment above)…. It does indeed get better and as they say, practice makes perfect.”
“Your muscles are building and trust me they will not only stop hurting but become a very valuable tool in your tool box. You got this. Don’t give up and remember that girls can do anything boys can do. Believe in yourself. Think of it this way….it’s like doing yoga all day.“
– Mary Prettyman, Owner, A Grande Choice Pool & Spa, Englewood, FL
When I think back to all the pools I was in as a kid, it makes me happy to know that I know we have the knowledge and power to help prevent others from experiencing those same adverse side effects that I remember. One of my favorite things to hear is, “Thank you so much for taking care of my pool! My grandkids had the best time!” The ability to clear up any algae issues or staining and maintaining healthy and sanitary water for everyone to swim without worry was my primary motivation for becoming a pool operator.
“The advice I can give is that your word is your bond, and integrity is everything. Do not take things personally because business is business. Do not hold grudges because it only harms you. Circumstances change, and you may end up working with that person again. To help others achieve their success and be a great mentor.”
– Debra Smith, President, Pulliam Pools.
This industry has some of the most knowledgeable people who are willing to help with any situation. Compared to my experience in restaurants and big-box retail, I have never seen such a broad base of expertise or met people with the most helpful attitudes. There are many building blocks necessary in becoming proficient and confident in your ability.
Continued education is key to staying informed and ahead of potential problems. A certified pool operator course is the cornerstone of that foundation. Women considering joining the pool business or expanding their knowledge by getting a certification shouldn’t hesitate about starting the adventure, not only because of the fantastic and supportive network of pool girls and guys but also because of the rewards and excitement this industry has to offer.
– Andrea Lynne Nannini, swimming pool service tech and creator of the “Adventures of the Pool Girl” FB page
#PoolGirlPower
We look forward to hearing your thoughts in the comments below:
Ms. Lynne presents a well-written and meaningful dialogue that should both enlighten and inspire both men and women. Like so many other blue-collar professions, the pool industry is fraught with demeaning and misleading stereotypes perpetuated by the media grasping for low-hanging fruit and their audiences hungry for the next punchline.
Ms. Lynne offers her perspective and those of other women, all of whom, through self-confidence, hard work and tenacity, broke through the negative and inaccurate caricatures and changed the face of the pool industry.
Tal, thank you so much for your kind words and support!
Nnniiiccceeeeeee of you, Andrea! Keep going, gurl! I’m very proud of you.
The world needs your example, as well, to inspire better ways in our people, today.
I love you and this.
Much love.
Thank you very much! I’m glad you enjoyed reading!
Andrea Nannini you are a powerhouse pool tech and you demonstrate your incredible knowledge day in and day out. Thank you for providing such a fantastic example to all women and girls around you. Bravo! Hands down, I would love to employ such a women of extensive experience and know how at my pool service company in Englewood, FL.
Mare you are just as amazing! I am forever grateful for your encouragement and everything you do! ?
I have been in pool business 10 years and know by just listening or reading what people have to say what their pool knowledge is, Andrea is a wealth of knowledge and knows more then most of the male pool industry people I interact with, male or female is does not matter, knowledge and skill is something Andrea has. Good work Andrea
🙂 Thank you so much!
Wow you are amazing
Thank you Steph! ?❤✌
Great article, I like hearing it from your side ???
Thanks Alissa! ??
I hate when people treat women like they can’t do a “mans” job. I was like that was a teenager because my grandparents were that way, and my parents didn’t have manual labor job. But in my 20’s I ran a maintenance crew for a high school and several times the electricians that came out to work on things we couldn’t, were women. They were amazing at what they did. They could track down problems faster and ran wire better than than the men that came out. Great article!
It’s definitely a frustrating thing when it happens, and it’s not all the time, but knowing I’m not alone is super helpful and a relief! Thank you for reading !
Andrea, I am like you.. a little older. I have been in the pool industry since the 70’s…and I like you, have had so much negativity to deal with and to overcome. I am not a shrinking violet and I am strong. Mentally and physically. If women want to be in this profession, it isn’t easy, but it is possible as you have shown. Kudos to you soul sister! Carrying a 50 lb. bag of salt or bicarb on your shoulder takes some muscle…and constantly getting people to believe in your recommendations for their pool’s needs can be frustrating as a woman…but eventually your reputation as a competent pool professional will precede you and your gender. Times are changing and women are allowed to do whatever they want, this was a hard fought battle…but we are finally getting the recognition we deserve. I hold two college degrees…so I am not in the pool business because I need beer money…I do it because I love swimming pools and I like working with the public. As a mother and grandmother…it gives me the financial ability to take care of my family and hopefully provide for their future long after I am gone. Thanks for the article Andrea!
Debra,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I am so happy that there are others like me and we can all accept each other! I love doing what I do and the fact that I will be able to have something for my children to do if they like it is a great feeling!
?
The audacity of some people. When did people decide it was nice to be so rude and make remarks that are hurtful? Ridiculous.
It’s been a challenge for sure. But that’s best motivation to keep learning and not let negativity stop me from what I know and love. 🙂
It is always annoying that people still have that notion about women in different fields! It is nice to prove people wrong though.
Good for you for doing what you enjoy despite stereotypes!
this is incredible and very powerful for us ladies! You go girl!!
I liked reading this post. People need to break stereotypes. I don’t like people who judge other’s career. Moreover, calling a girl you are smart sometimes shows as if women can’t do good work like men. You are doing great. Keep it up 🙂
You go girl. I’m happy to read articles that promote women empowerment.
Great article! We need to teach our daughters nothing is impossible. There is no thing exists meant only for men. Glad you are dealing this with a smile and confidence 🙂
I should share your inspirational post with my daughter who is about to enter adulthood. Thanks for sharing this with us.
When every time I read your posts, it adds extra energy to my life.Thanks and good luck with everything!
Who decided what’s a
Man’s job or a woman’s job!! I am so proud of you for doing what you are doing. You go girl.
Yeah to girl power and nay to all those snobs. Its worse when its a woman hurting another woman, like the mother talking to her daughter about school. But you are a powerhouse. Way to go!
Girls rule the world! Pool techs get a bad rap, but kudos to you for rising above!
Sounds like being a pool tech is a great job! You get to hang at the pool all day! As long as you love it, that’s all that Matters!
Girls can do anything they set their minds to, even being a pool tech. Thank you for bringing attention to this! Girl power!
I love everything about what you wrote! I used to work doing some pool stuff, but stopped. I do love the background of this though it makes me want to go swimming so bad! I am now in my 30’s and used to swim on the swim team in high school and I am starting to miss that.
I’m very proud of you. Keep up the good work.
That’s a huge challenge especially with the rude comments. You go girl #poolgirlpower all the way
Great post. After reading it all. I can say Jobs are for skilled people only. There is no “mans” job only kind of thing. Both gender is equally responsible for making this planet.
Thanks for sharing.
There’s another level of respect I give to women who are hardworking. You definitely are. Great job you do…
I run a “technical & order” call center of 18 agents , 3 of them are female , and damned good. i am always looking for more and i believe your peers are more astounded than your clients. This is my 50th year in the Business , and our two stores always had at least 2 gals on staff in & out of the field , I guess our family business was unique in this way. Always leave in your blanket statements, a tiny area of expectation for change in the culture, i believe it is not just race that is up for change, our gender supposition of role is very much in play.
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