For more than 62 years, Master Pools Guild (MPG) has been a beacon of excellence in the pool industry, providing a unique platform for collaboration, education, and support among its members. Founded in 1962 by a group of visionary pool builders in California, MPG has evolved into an exclusive international network of custom pool builders, with a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of construction and ethical practices.

At the helm of MPG stands its current Executive Director, Teri Wiltshire, who brings over 15 years of experience in the pool and spa industry to her role. In a recent interview, Wiltshire shed light on the organization’s history, mission, and the transition into her position as Executive Director.

Wiltshire emphasized the familial nature of MPG, stating, “Our group is tight-knit, 100 members. They have always been incredibly supportive. We’re a tight-knit family.” This cohesion is crucial as it fosters a spirit of openness and communication, a unique characteristic in an industry where competitors often find themselves at odds.

Continuing a Proud Tradition of Excellence

Since its inception, MPG’s mission has remained focused on communication, networking, and continuing education. Wiltshire notes that one remarkable aspect of the organization is the emergence of third and fourth-generation members, who, having grown up within the organization, contribute to smooth transitions in ownership and management within their respective companies.

Contrary to misconception, MPG is not a buying group. While they do provide a small annual rebate to members based on their purchasing, the organization’s primary focus is on sharing knowledge and education. Wiltshire clarified, “Overwhelmingly our purpose is sharing and education. We provide our members with the continuing education they need to stay at the top of their game.”

Becoming a Member of Master Pools Guild

Membership in MPG is by invitation only, and the organization maintains a rigorous vetting process to ensure the highest standards in construction and ethical practices. Wiltshire outlined the meticulous process, including reference checks, discussions with banks and vendors, and the use of digital platforms to assess a business’s online reputation.

Wiltshire emphasized, “We want to make the right choice, and we want to make sure that we are the right choice for that organization as well.” This stringent selection process reflects MPG’s commitment to maintaining a family-like atmosphere within the organization.

Shared Core Values

Integrity, honesty, and honorability are foundational cornerstones for MPG and its members. Wiltshire stated, “All of those qualities are extremely important to us,” and highlighted the organization’s proactive approach in monitoring members’ online presence on platforms such as Google, LinkedIn, Facebook, Yelp, and addressing any negative reviews promptly.

Wiltshire emphasizes the importance of the relationships MPG has built with its approximately 150 vendor partners through the Preferred Equipment Provider Program. She notes, “In March and October of every year, when our members get together, we invite those vendors to attend as well. There are great networking and communication opportunities throughout our three-day program, fostering great relationship building.” Wiltshire emphasizes the significance of these relationships, especially during critical times like the unprecedented ice storm in Texas, where the vendor partnerships proved instrumental in supporting and aiding MPG members.

A Commitment to Educating Pool Builders

At the core of MPG’s mission is education, and Wiltshire explains the various avenues the organization employs to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing. She highlights the collaboration with Genesis organization and Watershape University, providing optional education for members during meetings. Additionally, the organization partners with vendor allies to offer online education components throughout the year, ensuring a continuous flow of knowledge. “We feel like on all of those touch points, we are doing everything we can do to give our members the ability to get as much continuing education as possible,” says Wiltshire.

Wiltshire elaborates on the guidelines for becoming an MPG member, underscoring the organization’s commitment to maintaining high standards. “Some of those guidelines are that the business has to have been in existence for a minimum of five years. There can be no bankruptcies in the past. We ask that they build primarily gunite pools, and there should be no other memberships with other associations in our industry, competing associations,” she explains. These stringent criteria ensure that MPG continues to uphold its reputation for excellence.

Connecting With Master Pools Guild

For emerging professionals eager to join the ranks of Master Pools Guild (MPG), Wiltshire encourages aspiring members to explore various channels to connect. “There’s a place on our website that allows you access to the contact information for our office anytime anyone would like to reach out to us.” The MPG website serves as a gateway for potential members, offering valuable insights and contact information. Wiltshire emphasizes her openness to conversations, inviting individuals to reach out and discover more about the organization.

MPG’s website serves not only as an informational hub for its members but also as a valuable search tool for homeowners seeking top-tier builders. Wiltshire details, “The guild office has the goal of providing an avenue from the consumer to our member builders. If you click through and enter a zip code or a location, it will dial you down to your nearest Master Pools Guild member builder.” This initiative underscores MPG’s commitment to facilitating connections between discerning homeowners and elite pool builders.

While the website serves as a centralized resource, Wiltshire also highlights the importance of personal connections within the MPG community. “Any Master Pools Guild member builder that someone knows is a wonderful resource. My office can give you everything you need, but if you really want insight into what it means to be a Masterpools Guild member, you will not find a better resource than an existing member.”

Welcoming The Next Generation

As the pool industry continues to evolve, Master Pools Guild remains committed to cultivating a community of excellence. Whether through the digital realm, industry events, or direct connections with current members, MPG offers a multitude of avenues for aspiring professionals to explore and join this exclusive network.

For those with a passion for craftsmanship, innovation, and a commitment to the highest standards in pool construction, Master Pools Guild stands ready to welcome the next generation of builders. The open-door policy and the wealth of knowledge within the existing community ensure that aspiring professionals will find the support and mentorship needed to thrive within the MPG family.

Listen to our interview with Teri Wiltshire, Executive Director of Master Pools Guild on the Pool Magazine podcast.

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