Category: Instructors

Charlie has been employed in the field of aquatics since 2004. He has been instructing the CPO Course since 2018. His approach to teaching is to enhance the day-to-day operations for pool operators across our region and educate them on pools, pool operation and pool safety. While working in the field and utilizing a hands-on approach to the aquatics industry, it has become vital that customers as well as pool professionals alike are educated in the basics of operating a pool. Charlie is currently an Aquatic Consultant with Spear .

Mike Shepherd has been employed in the field of aquatics since 2015. He earned his NSPF Instructor Certification in January of 2018. Mike has over 30 years’ experience in sales, services and management in the commercial specialty chemical/fluids industries. His approach to the course is to impart critical knowledge and instruction to help facilitate a healthy, safe and enjoyable experience for operators and patrons of aquatic facilities. Mike is currently the Director of Sales for Spear .

Bryce Jones has been employed in the field of aquatics since 1999. He has been instructing the CPO Class since 2011. His goal and approach to this course is to educate participants and give them a better understanding of the operator’s role in swimming pool care and management. While at Spear , Bryce has consulted with many Midwest aquatic facilities regarding new installations, renovations, and new project development. Bryce has natural instincts and insight in finding the best solution to the most unclear Aquatic facility dilemma.

Sam Blake has been employed in the field of aquatics since 1995. He has been instructing the CPO Class since 2005. While at Spear , Sam has specialized in the design and construction of chemical systems, filtration systems and pool design. Sam’s experience in the Aquatic Industry include consulting on the following facility designs; 2012 US Olympic Trial Pools, North Central High School Natatorium, Franklin Community High School Natatorium, Lebanon Aquatic Center, and many others. Sam’s professional affiliations and certifications are: Illinois Park and Recreation Association, Indiana Park and Recreation Association, Indiana School Board Association, Kentucky Recreation and Park Society, Ohio Parks and Recreation Association.

Brian Spear has been employed in the field of aquatics since 1990. He has been instructing the CPO Course since 2005. Brian started at Spear as a Service Technician and then later served in the position of Project Manager, while specializing in mechanical room renovations and new construction. Brian is currently serving as President of Spear . During this CPO Course, Brian will share his knowledge and skill that has been acquired by years of hands-on experience. Brian enjoys unique aquatic projects that include the design and construction of circulation and filtrations systems.  Some of those have included the 2004 FINA World Swimming Championships, the 2012 and 2016 USA Olympic Swimming Trials, NYAD 48 ‘Swim for Relief’ with Diana Nyad, and Marine Corp bases in Okinawa, Japan.  Brian has a passion for aquatics. He strives hard to assist and educate pool operators of all facilities in the Midwest and beyond.