We’re living on the edge with Ryan Young and Edge Pools out of Scottsdale / Phoenix, Arizona. We got the opportunity to sit down with Ryan for an interview and look forward to sharing a bit about what motivates this young pool pro after fifteen years in the industry.
After having some challenges happen in his life, Ryan wanted to try something new, so he started servicing pools (he loved working outside and found pools intriguing). After cleaning pools for a while he decided that what he really found interesting was the repairs side of the business. However, without any experience, no one would give him a chance. So, he decided he would just show up when he found out that a repair was scheduled, and he learned and would help the repairmen for free and shadow them until someone eventually gave him a shot as a repair guy. Ryan calls his tenacity “a war of attrition” and proudly confirms that “I made the opportunity myself”. With a competitive industry that is just what you have to do to sometimes get a foot into the door.
We asked Ryan how he stays up to date on new technology and he replied “I’ve always had good relationships with people in the industry who have offered to help me and teach me. Find people who know more than you do. Treat them with respect and give them the opportunity to want to train you.” From training at manufacturers such as Raypak to finding mentors in the industry, it’s important to have well-rounded educational and hands-on opportunities available.
When asked how Ryan overcomes challenges, he replied, “Definitely the hardest part of succeeding is paying my dues. Having to fight through hard summers and take the bad days with the good made me strong, and capable of excelling in my journey. The most important thing is to never give up, that is one thing many are not willing to do.”
Ryan has worked on a lot of memorable projects over the years, but the one that stands out the most is a remodel of a pool on the second floor of a commercial complex called Overture Kierland. “It was very difficult because the logistics of getting material in and out were very complex,” he said. “Everything had to be done through an 8×6 grate in the center of the pool area down to a parking garage below. The project went off without a hitch and became one of my proudest accomplishments”.
We asked Ryan if he has any tips or advice for other professionals in the pool and spa industry and he referred to the “board trick”.”You take a 2×4 and attach two wood hooks at the end. When you have a stubborn light that won’t pull through the niche, using the board as leverage and the hooks to grab the cord, you can pull the light with ease even on cords that are completely corrupted.”
As we wrapped up our time with Ryan we wanted to see if he had a positive experience or success story involving Raypak products that we could share. He noted, “I have experienced so many awesome moments with Raypak. They truly have done great work out in the field. Consistency of products and innovation is what sets Raypak products apart from others in the market”.
Learn more about Edge Pools and Ryan at https://edgepoolsaz.com/contact-us or by calling (480) 720-0948. From commercial and residential repair, construction, to complete remodels, they are focused on the highest quality at competitive pricing.
