membership
Member Profile: Mallory Wachowski
- How long have you been a member of PHTA?
The company I work for, DesRochers Backyard Pools and Spas, has been a member for the entire time I have worked with them, which this year is my 15th year. I am sure they were members before that, but I became involved with the Retail Council in 2016!
- Why did you join PHTA?
I got involved with PHTA to give back to the industry that I love and also for networking. Talking with others is so valuable to innovating and changing things in your business to make each year a little more efficient!
- What committee/council/chapter do you currently volunteer with?
On the national level, I am a part of the Retail Council. I am also on the board for the PHTA Midwest Chapter and co-chair of the Midwest WAVE.
- What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I like to be involved in what is happening in the industry. I love to network with others that do similar jobs as I do.
- What is your current occupation? How long have you been in the pool and hot tub industry?
I have been in the Pool and Spa industry for 15 years. I started as a retail associate at DesRochers Backyard Pools while I was in college. I loved working for them so much I changed my career path and have been here ever since. I am now the Retail Operations Manager of their 3 retail locations.
- What do you love most about the pool and hot tub industry?
It is always changing. There is always something new to learn or try. There are always new people to meet or a new challenge to overcome. I also like how the people you meet become part of your network. From my experience, there is always someone willing to give advice, help with a problem, or give input.
- How do you define success?
I define success by meeting goals. I usually make those goals myself and make them aggressive!
- Who inspires you?
Honestly, the owners of the company I work for are often my biggest inspiration. They are so motivated, driven, and also compassionate. It is something I strive for.
- If you could choose anyone as a mentor, who would you choose? Why?
The owners of my company are definitely my mentors, and I would choose them if they weren't already. They care so much about the people that work for them. They also want to help everyone grow in their positions here.
- What’s one thing - either industry-related or not - you learned in the last month?
I built a coffee bar with my best friend. Honestly, I didn't do much of the constructing, but I did stain and finish it. It was fun learning something new!
- What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I have a blog that I haven't kept up with lately but it's about growing as a manager. It is called the Millennial Manager.
- What’s the last book you read?
I recently finished Promised Land by Barack Obama
- What’s the first concert you ever attended?
I am not even sure which concert was my first, but I love going to concerts. I actually have a concert bucket list. I like to travel to new cities to see concerts, which also helps me fit them into my schedule. My favorites have been Sia, Motion City Soundtrack, and Fall Out Boy.
- If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
This is so random, but when I was away at college I lived off pasta and butter. It is still my favorite comfort food.
