At Oak City Outdoors, we take pride in always learning and growing as a team. Whether we’re out in the field or in a training room, we’re constantly working to improve our knowledge and sharpen our skills. Staying up to date on the latest tools, techniques, and safety practices helps us serve our clients better every day. As part of that commitment, we’ve earned several professional certifications—some of which are listed below.

The Certified Watershape Foreman (CWF) validates that the recipient has met the globally-recognized professional standard to execute construction of basic pools, spas and other water features. This standard requires verification of professional education and training as well as passing a professional certification exam. This designation is a prerequisite to most advanced credentials.

The CWB certifies sufficient knowledge to operate a watershape construction company, document proposed designs, estimate projects, and build basic pools, spas and other watershapes.

The Certified Watershape Designer (CWD) validates that the recipient has met the globally-recognized professional standard established to professionally design pools, spas, and waterfeatures. This standard requires verification of professional education and training as well as passing a professional certification exam. This designation is a prerequisite to some advanced credentials.

The Certified Watershape Company (CWC) validates that at least one person in a leadership position has achieved the Certified Watershape Foreman (CWF) status and is driving improvements within the company.

The Certified Watershape Finish Specialist (CWFS) understands basic pool construction including the importance of safety issues such as suction entrapment, but they have extended their knowledge with two days of hands-on training in a workshop where the students actually mix and apply various cementitious finishes. This standard requires verification of professional education and training as well as passing an in-class project.

The Certified Watershape Professional (CWP) validates that the recipient has met the globally-recognized professional standard for operating a design/build firm capable of executing complex pools, spas, and water features. This standard requires verification of professional education and training as well as passing a professional certification exam. This designation is a prerequisite to some advanced credentials.

The Certified Watershape Renovator (CWR) validates that the recipient has met the globally-recognized professional standard for reshaping, reconfiguring and renovating pools, spas and other waterfeatures. This standard requires verification of professional education and training as well as passing an in-class project.

The Certified Watershape Real Estate Inspector (CWRI) validates that the recipient has met the globally-recognized professional standard to execute competent and cost-effective residential pool inspections that adhere to swimming pool codes and standards, and the ability to create a thorough and professional pool inspection report for Real Estate transactions. This standard requires verification of professional experience, education and training as well as passing a professional certification exam.

The Certified Watershape Waterproofing Specialist (CWWS) understands basic pool construction including the importance of safety issues such as suction entrapment, but they have extended their knowledge with two days of hands-on training in a workshop where the students actually mix and apply various waterproofing products onto horizontal, vertical and radiused surfaces plus details such as pipe penetrations. This standard requires verification of professional education and training as well as passing an in-class project.

The Swimming Pool General Contractor License in North Carolina is a specific certification for contractors who construct or renovate pools. It means they’ve passed a state exam and met experience criteria, ensuring they understand safety codes and proper building practices. This protects you as a client, ensuring your contractor is qualified, insured, and legally permitted to handle your pool project with professionalism and care.

NC GENERAL CONTRACTOR #L.85393

The North Carolina Landscape Contractors License ensures that a contractor has proven knowledge in areas like planting, grading, drainage, and hardscaping. To earn the license, contractors must pass a state exam and meet insurance and experience requirements. It’s a mark of professionalism and accountability. Hiring a licensed contractor gives you confidence that your project will be completed safely, correctly, and to state standards.

NC LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR #L.0238