Meet Raypak’s very own, and Pool Nation Trailblazer of the Year Nominee, Carlene Viboch! Carlene celebrates 40 years in the pool industry this month. We caught up with Carlene to learn what motivates her in her role at Raypak, how she continues to handle the evolution of the pool and spa industry and what advice she’d share with fellow women in the industry.
Carlene is a born and raised San Diegan who began her career in the pool industry in October 1985, where she worked at a retail store that specialized in hot tubs, gazebos, above-ground pools, saunas, steam rooms, and a wide range of pool supplies including chemicals and accessories. Over time, they successfully expanded to three locations across the San Diego and South Riverside areas. “For 21 years, I wore many hats—managing sales, purchasing, bookkeeping, human resources, and more”, said Carlene. “This hands-on experience gave me a deep understanding of both the operational and customer-facing sides of the business.”
We asked Carlene how she eventually moved to Raypak and she replied:
I first learned about an open sales position at Raypak while attending a trade show—proof that sometimes the best opportunities come when you’re out in the field, connecting with others. I joined the team and began shaping sales strategies in the greater San Diego region, building relationships and driving growth.
As my experience and results grew, so did my responsibilities. I was promoted to oversee sales across California, and eventually took on the role of managing sales throughout the Western 12 states. In this capacity, I serve a diverse range of clients—from distributors to service professionals—helping them find solutions that meet their needs while championing safety, efficiency, and long-term value.
Being a trailblazer often means stepping into spaces where few women have gone before. We asked Carlene if she could share a time when she had to push past barriers or expectations to keep going. Here’s what she had to say:
When I entered this industry in 1985, I was a teenage girl selling high-ticket items priced between $5,000 and $8,000. As a young woman, I was often invisible—customers would bypass me entirely, directing their questions to the men around me as if I didn’t exist. To counter this, I orchestrated moments where my male colleagues would turn to me and ask, “Carlene, how many amps does it require?” or “What’s the voltage?”—forcing others to recognize my expertise.
At just 19, I began wearing my grandmother’s wedding ring to appear older, hoping it would lend me credibility in a world that refused to take me seriously.
Fast forward to 2013: I became a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Instructor, one of the very few women in that role at the time. During breaks, I’d joke that at least I never had to wait in line for the restroom—because I was the only woman there.
Throughout my career, I’ve heard countless dismissive remarks like, “Is there anyone here who can help me?” or “YOU can help me?” But being underestimated time and again only made my achievements more meaningful. Every milestone I’ve reached has been hard-won—and all the more rewarding because of it.
Due to a significant lack of female representation in the industry compared to male colleagues, we wanted to know where Carlene got her inspiration for her career:
When I began my journey in this industry, women were few and far between. At my first International Pool Show as an exhibitor in 1988, I remember looking around and seeing only three other women working booths. That moment stuck with me—not just because of how rare it was, but because of the quiet strength we all carried.
To this day, I still talk and correspond with those three women. We’ve supported each other through decades of change, challenges, growth and for some retirement. Their perseverance and camaraderie have inspired me to be that same source of encouragement for others. I’ve made it a point to lift up women entering the field—offering mentorship, sharing knowledge, and reminding them they’re not alone.
Trailblazers also make a way for others. We asked Carlene how she has mentored, encouraged, or opened doors for the next generation of women in this industry?
Throughout my career, I’ve made it a priority to ensure that the road I carved out wouldn’t end with me. I’ve mentored young women entering the industry, offering not just technical guidance but the kind of support I wish I’d had—confidence, encouragement, and a reminder that they belong here.
I’ve created opportunities for women to lead, speak, and be seen. Whether it was hiring them for roles, inviting them to speak at meetings, or simply making space for their voices in rooms where they were often overlooked, I’ve worked to shift the culture from exclusion to inclusion.
As a CPO Instructor, I’ve made it a point to normalize women in technical leadership. I’ve shared my story openly—ring and all—so that others know they’re not alone in being underestimated. And I’ve made sure that when someone asks, “Is there anyone here who can help me?” the answer is, “Yes—and she’s right here.”
The most rewarding part? Being asked by those that I have hired/promoted/mentored if they can still reach out to me as their mentor when I have moved on and then seeing those women rise, thrive, and mentor others in turn. That’s how change happens—not just through one trailblazer, but through a growing network of empowered voices.
We wanted to know what unique perspective Carlene feels women bring to the pool industry, and how she sees that shaping the future:
Women bring a distinct and valuable perspective to the pool industry—one that emphasizes customer service, collaboration, and attention to detail. We often approach challenges with a team-oriented mindset, prioritize clear communication, and consider the full customer experience, not just the technical solution. Our heightened focus on aesthetics also brings a fresh lens to design and presentation, helping elevate the visual appeal of pool environments or even the look of our pool retail stores.
We tend to ask different questions, notice different things, and offer insights that might otherwise be overlooked. That diversity of thought is powerful—it leads to more inclusive innovation, stronger relationships, and better outcomes.
As more women enter and lead in this industry, I see the future becoming more balanced, more creative, and more responsive to the needs of a broader range of clients.
The pool industry has evolved quickly in recent years. From Carlene’s viewpoint, what’s the most exciting change she’s witnessed — and what change does she believe still needs to happen? Carlene replied,
In my 40 years in the pool industry, I’ve witnessed an incredible transformation. We’ve gone from using Thomas Bros. maps to navigate customer locations to relying on GPS and online tools. Sales once meant flipping through yellow pages—now it’s a few clicks on the internet. Handwritten receipts have given way to sleek POS systems, and communication has evolved from landlines to beepers to smartphones. The rise of the internet alone has revolutionized how we connect, learn, and do business.
But the most exciting change I’ve seen is the growing presence of women in the industry. Seeing more women in roles like pool cleaning and repair—areas traditionally dominated by men—is both refreshing and inspiring. It’s a shift that brings new perspectives, stronger customer relationships, and a more inclusive future.
That said, there’s still work to be done. The industry remains male-dominated, and continued efforts to highlight and support women who are making a difference are essential. Representation matters—not just for visibility, but for shaping a culture where everyone feels they belong and can thrive. Special thank you to Pool Nation for recognizing this and making this category.
We asked Carlene: If you could go back and give your younger self advice on the first day you started in this industry, what would you say?
If I could go back and speak to my younger self on that very first day, I’d say: “You belong here. Don’t let anyone’s doubt define your worth or your potential.”
I’d remind her that being underestimated isn’t a weakness—it’s a quiet strength that will fuel her resilience. I’d tell her to trust her instincts, speak up even when it’s uncomfortable, and never shrink herself to fit someone else’s expectations. The road won’t be easy, but every challenge will shape her into a leader who opens doors for others.
And most importantly, I’d say: “Keep showing up. Your presence alone is powerful—and one day, it will help change the face of this industry.”
To close, we asked her what has motivated Carlene over the years. “My younger brother tragically drowned in a swimming pool just before his third birthday. That loss shaped the course of my life and career. Pool safety has been my top priority ever since—whether I’m at work, at home, or simply enjoying leisure time near water, I’m always vigilant and ready to act. I have shared my story in every CPO class that I have taught. It’s not just professional—it’s personal. That experience fuels my passion for education, prevention, and being the person who’s always prepared to jump in and help”.
Thank you, Carlene, for your honest and insightful interview. We are thankful to have you as a pillar of leadership in the Raypak community.
“Looking back, I can honestly say I wouldn’t change a thing”, said Carlene. “Every role I’ve held, every challenge I’ve faced, and every step along the way has led me to where I am today. This industry has been incredibly rewarding, and while I may not point to one dramatic risk or decision, I see the value in the steady, intentional choices that shaped my path. Each job built on the last, preparing me for the opportunities that followed.”
