Swimming Operator Pool Certifications: AFO vs. CPO vs. CPT etc.

A: The Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Certification is recognized by the CDC and all fifty states to satisfy the recommended requirement to operate a public swimming pool in the USA and beyond. There are tons of great educational opportunities and Aquatic Media Group encourages you to get training wherever it is available. In addition to just pool chemistry and mechanics the AFO certification also covers faculty management, programming and profitability. AFO will show you how to achieve profitability within the aquatic facility using swim lessons, aqua fitness and aquatic therapy. AFO will discuss current trends in facility and programming, design plus give resources to help you help your facility be top notch. If you look around at job postings for aquatic directors in major metro areas you will often see AFO certification as now being a job requirement in place of the old standard CPO. CPO is a great certification for residential swimming pools. AFO is preferable when you are working in an aquatic facility that has programming.  The other certifications mentioned have not been reviewed by Aquatic Media Group, but we are reaching out to ask for permission to evaluate their courses as well, to give them a fair shake. All these type certifications meet the criteria of many authorities holding jurisdiction (AHJs) as is referred to by the Model Aquatic Health Code or “MAHC”.  Which has been written collaboratively by aquatic professionals in support of a national standard for operator training.