Laura Castanza,
the Director of Education for the Team Horner Group, had a unique introduction
to the pool industry at a young age.
“My father has been an inventor and
formulator of swimming pool surfaces for decades,” said Laura, “As a
family, we spent most of our time in and around water.”
The South Florida native watched her dad become
increasingly fascinated by cements and aggregates, and resolute in applying
them as swimming pool finishes.
It was
only a matter of time before she would contribute.
“After I graduated college,
he asked if I was interested starting a business to build Hydro-Torque water
driven tools,” said Laura. “So, I jumped
right in!”
After 10 years of tools and pools, Laura went through a
personal and professional evolution away from the industry, and opened a co-operative art gallery with a friend. However, three years into
the venture the recession hit that forced the gallery to close. But, she had
remained close to her dad and his work and ended up pursuing an opportunity
with a swimming pool & spa retailer/contractor in Boca Raton.
“It was a full-service company that gave me huge insight
into the mechanisms of the swimming pool/spa industry, “said Laura. “Through
working a number of roles, it taught me everything I needed to become an
educator.”
Laura landed one of her dreams jobs as an educator at her
current employer, Team Horner Group.
“I really love what I do,” said Laura. “It’s conscious, creative, and
collaborative.”