The Supporting Women Industry-Wide, Mentors & Networking reception was held Nov. 1 during the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo in Orlando, Fla.
SWIMN is a female-focused group of pool and spa professionals dedicated to mentoring, networking and promoting growth.
The organization was founded by Pam Vinje, president and CEO of Small Screen Producer; Lauren Stack, managing director, regional division at the National Swimming Pool Foundation; Teri Wiltshire, special projects manager of Master Pools Guild; and April Nielsen, national accounts manager of Lonza.
“We’ve got great women here,” said Vinje. “It was a great event.” The organization was created to provide opportunities for mentorships, networking and fun, she said. Many facets of the industry were represented, including builders, manufacturers, retailers and industry associations.
Sherry Buckman, co-owner of Pride Pools, Spas & Leisure Products in Savannah, Ga., has attended the event since its inception and was pleased with the networking opportunities as well as the plans that were discussed for future marketing and communication endeavors.
“I’ve been in this industry for more than 30 years, and I wish that someone had created this organization sooner,” said Buckman. “I wish I’d thought of it.”
Vinje plans to hold the SWIMN meeting again next year “and for every year to follow.”
