John Broughton
Aquatics Operations & Maintenance Manager
Tropic Falls @ OWA
Foley, Alabama - U.S.A.
Featured in
World Waterpark Magazine, January 2024
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE?
Over my 24 years in the aquatics field, my experiences have had me working with some of the best lifeguards and technicians in waterparks, pool management companies, municipalities and country clubs.
WHAT CERTIFICATION OR LICENSING DO YOU HAVE?
I have my Ellis and Associates Lifeguard Instructor, Certified Pool Operator (CPO), Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO), Commercial VRA Rappelling Certification and OSHA-30 Certification.
WHAT MADE YOU GO INTO THIS FIELD?
I grew up spending my summers at our local theme park and knew that was something I wanted to do as I got older. As for the aquatics side of it, it found me more than I found it.
WHAT ASPECT OF THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY DO YOU LIKE BEST?
Simple...the people. The ability to meet, network and get to meet so many people in the industry is incredible.
WHO HAS MOST INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
Where to begin with that question? There have been many, but my current General Manager, Mike Neace, is who I would say has inspired me the most. Having the opportunity to work with and learn from him over many years, he has guided me and continues to guide me on how to grow, apply and better myself.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR WATERPARK CAREER?
Staffing and unfortunately, I feel it’s not just a problem for me. We continue to be creative, supportive, and open-minded on how to operate with a shorter staff while ensuring we provide a completely safe and fun environment for our guests.
HOW DO YOU KEEP FOCUSED AND MOTIVATED?
I rely on my support team at work as well as my support team at home (aka - my wife) to keep me grounded and moving forward.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN WORKING IN THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY?
“Alone We Can Do So Little; Together We Can Do So Much” - Helen Keller. There will be good days and there will be bad days. Rely on those around you and together you will succeed.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
Having the opportunity to work at a place that provides a fun and energetic atmosphere for our guests and to see the smiles on their faces.
WHAT CAREER OR BUSINESS WOULD YOU CONSIDER IF YOU WERE STARTING ALL OVER AGAIN?
Can’t really say I would change what I’m doing. Seeing it through the eyes of a maintenance guy... If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE WWA?
Every job opportunity and company that I have worked for has been a member of WWA.
WHAT IS SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOU THAT FEW KNOW OR WOULD GUESS?
First would be that I had to basically learn how to swim prior to working in the Aquatics field. The second would be that I have been part of the construction and opening of two waterparks, Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags St Louis and Tropic Falls at OWA. •