Industry leaders gather for the highest-attended conference to date, highlighting innovation, collaboration, and continued growth across the Group.
Las Vegas, Nev. — February 20, 2026 — United Aqua Group (UAG) successfully concluded its annual conference, bringing together members, vendors, and industry partners from across the country for a week of education, collaboration, and celebration — culminating in the highly anticipated Awards of Distinction Gala. The event marked a milestone year for the organization, achieving record attendance, with nearly one in four attendees participating for the first time, reflecting continued growth and strong momentum across the organization.
“What stood out most this year wasn’t just the size of the conference, it was the energy and connection throughout the week,” said Craig Goodson, President of United Aqua Group. “We welcomed so many new faces alongside longtime members and there was an immediate sense of camaraderie. From meaningful conversations on the trade show floor to the moments of celebration in the evenings, you could feel how strong this community has become. The excitement we’re already seeing for 2027 is a direct reflection of how special this year’s event was.”
Attendees participated in general sessions, a trade show, continuing education programming, peer-led discussions, networking events, and industry tours, all focused on helping members grow stronger, more profitable businesses while advancing standards across the industry.
Vendors reported exceptional engagement throughout the conference, with expanded networking opportunities and new initiatives designed to strengthen relationships between members and supplier partners.
Honoring Excellence: Awards of Distinction Gold Winners
A highlight of the conference was the Awards of Distinction Gala, where United Aqua Group recognized projects that represent the highest standards in design, construction, service, customer experience, and others. Submissions were judged on a fixed scale by a group of their peers.
During the gala, longtime member John Clarkson was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing more than two decades of leadership and contribution to the industry.
“We’ve been part of this organization for over 25 years, and I tell people it was the smartest business decision I ever made,” said Clarkson. “To be recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award by peers and friends who have been part of that journey makes it especially meaningful.”
The 2026 Gold Award winners include (company | project name (if applicable) | company location):
- Residential Concrete — Watters Aquatech Pools | Wallis | Las Vegas, NV
- Residential Fiberglass —Kevin Sparks Signature Pools | Casteel | Murfreesboro, TN
- Residential Vinyl — J&M Pool Company | Crowder | Senoia, GA
- Renovation — Ultimate Water Creations | Trainor | Los Angeles, CA
- Outdoor Living — Presidential Pools & Spas | All-Season Resort Backyard | Gilbert, AZ
- Small Commercial — National Pools of Roanoke | Valleydale Apartments | Roanoke, VA
- Large Commercial — California Commercial Pools | Gaylord Chula Vista | Glendora, CA
- Pentair Pool of the Year — Pool Rx | Wilson | Carrollton, GA
- Jandy Pool of the Year — Clarkson Pools | Firelight Retreat | Jacksonville, FL
- Hayward Pool of the Year — Atkinson Pools | The Cut Line | Charleston, SC
- BioLab Retailer of the Year — Thatcher Pools & Spas | Rochester, MN
- Solenis Retailer of the Year — Burton Pools and Spas | Fort Smith, AR
- Best Website — Clarkson Pools | Jacksonville, FL
- Community Outreach — Pride Pools, Spas, & Leisure Products | Savannah, GA
- Best Retail Store Layout — Cavanaugh Pool, Spa & Patio | Madisonville, KY
- Best Retail Store Makeover — Leisure In Montana | Billings, MT
- Best Service Truck — Hauk Custom Pools | Celina, TX
To view the Gold Award winner’s gallery and a complete look at all the honorees, please click here.
Looking ahead to 2027
Building on this year’s momentum, United Aqua Group announced that its February 2027 conference will be held at Waldorf Astoria and Hilton properties in Riviera Maya, Mexico, delivering an elevated experience as UAG remains committed to creating meaningful events that support member success and industry collaboration.
Learn more about United Aqua Group and how to join here.
