Before aquatics, I served as a Marine in the K-9 field for nine years, followed by 20 years in customer service. I came into the aquatics industry with minimal technical knowledge, but with an eagerness to learn. Fortunately, I had a fantastic team, including Dana Staniunas and Bill Frazier, who helped me develop the skills needed to succeed in the field. Their guidance has been instrumental in my journey, and I continue to build on what they taught me every day.

Anthony’s career in the amusement industry started in his hometown of Pittsburgh, PA, at the renowned Kennywood Park. Spending most of his early years in the Maintenance department, he gained hands-on experience caring for various rides and attractions. This foundational knowledge in maintenance and operations proved to be a strong asset in his later roles.

In 2012, Anthony made the move to Columbus, OH, where he took on the role of Rides Maintenance Manager at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay. It was here that he truly immersed himself in the world of aquatics, gaining in-depth expertise in the maintenance and operation of pools and waterslides. His years of experience culminated in 2019 when he returned to Ohio as Vice President of Zoombezi Bay, overseeing both the waterpark and guest services at the Columbus Zoo.

Anthony’s professional experience spans beyond waterparks. In 2017, he joined Universal Orlando Resort, where he held various leadership positions in Attractions Operations. Working in a park that welcomes 10 million guests a year gave him an unparalleled view of large-scale park operations, further enriching his understanding of guest experience and safety.

Before diving into aquatics, I was an elementary school teacher for 8 years. My experience working with children has been invaluable, as my current employees are often just a bit older than the students I once taught. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to see these young people grow and succeed, knowing I’ve played a part in their development.

I originally wanted to pursue a career in designing and building roller coasters, but after my second year as a lifeguard, I decided I truly loved this field and wanted to stay. I changed my major, and worked with my mentors to chart my own path of success. 

Over the years, I have earned several certifications including CPO, AFO, EMT-B, OSHA 10, and I am an Instructor Trainer for Ellis and Associates. Many people ask how my career path led me to the aquatic industry, and like many in this industry, I never planned for it to be my career. I stumbled upon it, loved it, and it became my career. My oldest brother, who was working as a Security Supervisor at a theme park, introduced me to the industry. He convinced me to work in Aquatics, and I fell in love with the team-centered environment, the sun-filled summers, and the amazing friendships and connections I made.

Growing up, aquatic recreation was a significant part of my life, with frequent visits to water parks and community centers. My childhood memories of fun and family bonding in these environments fueled my passion for the industry. Transitioning from a lucrative consulting job to founding Life Floor wasn’t about financial gain but about making a difference. 

A pivotal moment came when I pitched the idea to an investor who questioned my decision. I stood firm, emphasizing the importance of safety in aquatic environments and the potential to save lives. This encounter solidified my commitment to creating safer spaces in aquatic recreation, driving the early days of Life Floor with a passion to prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety in aquatic settings.

My journey into the aquatic industry started in 1999 when Six Flags Great Adventure (NJ) began building Hurricane Harbor. I began as a ride attendant and joined the first lifeguard class. Initially, it was just a summer job to meet people in my new town and help with college expenses. Even after graduating from college and again after graduate school, I found myself drawn back to the aquatic field because the people and experiences were unlike anything else. I always say it’s a job where colleagues become like family, and you can stay for a season or a lifetime.

Throughout my career I have been invited to new properties that were opening or reorganizing under new ownership. I loved working with clean slates to build teams and systems that would allow them to function efficiently even from the start. It was during these experiences that I developed a deep appreciation for the training and development side of the business.

Starting my aquatics career lifeguarding at a summer camp in 2005, I then moved to the bustling environment of Coney Island – Sunlite Pool in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 2007. My career path has taken me to Gulfport, Mississippi, working at Gulf Islands Waterpark, and eventually leading me back to Coney Island as an operations manager. Currently while based in Houston Texas, I oversee aquatic operations across 14 properties all over the USA, embodying the role of a mentor to the next generation of aquatic professionals.

My career started right after high school when I joined Tropicana Pools. That job wasn’t just work; it was where I found my calling. It taught me the ropes of pool building and maintenance, setting the stage for my later role at Wet ‘n Wild Water Park. Joining Wet ‘n Wild in 1980 as a Water Chemist was a pivotal moment for me, marking the start of an incredible journey in waterpark management.