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Empowering Aquatic Professionals.
Leading the Industry Forward.
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit advancing the aquatic profession through education, advocacy, research, and drowning prevention to build a stronger, more connected community of aquatic professionals.
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Life Jackets Given
18k+
500+Â
​Swim Lesson Grants
40+Â
Partners
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What We Do
Advancing The Aquatic Profession
We believe in promoting and supporting the aquatic profession through advocacy, research, and education — providing a common forum for members, educators, and aquatic suppliers that contributes to their professional advancement.
The Reality We Face
Drowning is preventable — yet it remains a leading cause of injury death worldwide.
Too many communities lack access to trained professionals, lifesaving gear, and water safety education. The gap between what aquatic professionals know and what the public receives is where lives are lost.
18k+
Life jackets distributed to communities in need
Limited access to professional training and certification
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Communities without life jackets or swim lesson funding
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Fragmented safety standards across facilities and regions
A unified force for water safety
Our Solution
AOAP coordinates research, education, advocacy, and grants into one professional community — equipping every aquatic professional to lead safely and effectively.
we distribute thousands of U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets to communities for swim lessons and open swim times.
Our free drowning prevention education program covers fundamental water safety protocols, rescue techniques, and community advocacy.
Gain recognized credentials through advanced training modules and the AqP designation, establishing you as a leading expert.
Making a global difference
Our Measurable Impact
Since 2011, AOAP has grown from a small group into a national and international organization — with membership increasing 25% from 2022 To 2026
18k+
Life Jackets Distributed
500+
Swim Lesson Grants
$1.2M
Educational Investments
40+
Partners & Sponsors
From joining to saving lives
How It Works
A clear path that turns professional commitment into community impact.
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Join the Community
Become a member and connect with a worldwide network of aquatic leaders, educators, and safety advocates.
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Learn & Get Certified
Access 80+ webinars, on-demand courses, and the AqP designation to establish yourself as a leading expert.
Apply the Knowledge
Implement evidence-based safety protocols, drowning prevention programs, and best practices on deck.
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Save Lives
Your work directly supports life jacket grants, swim lesson grants, and community drowning prevention.
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AOAP changed the way our community views water safety. Their mission-driven approach to drowning prevention is truly lifesaving.
Sarah Jenkins
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Community Safety Coordinator
Where aquatic professionals belong.
Why Choose AOAP
Membership is more than access to education or discounts. It's a professional community built by aquatic professionals for aquatic professionals — designed to support every aspect of aquatics, from leadership and operations to risk management, programming, advocacy, and drowning prevention.
AOAP's commitment to drowning prevention is inspiring. The conference brings together the best minds to solve the most critical challenges in aquatics.
David L.Â
— Conference Attendee
Frequently asked questions
Questions Answered
What is the Association of Aquatic Professionals?
AOAP is a domestic 501(c)(3) nonprofit that promotes and advocates policies, practices, and procedures contributing to safer aquatic education, recreation, programs, and facilities. We are known as the Association that is for Aquatic Professionals by Aquatic Professionals.
How do I become a member?
Individual annual membership is $75, with discounted rates for retired professionals and full-time students at $45. Group/agency memberships scale from 5 to 100 members, and commercial/business memberships are $200. Join or renew online in minutes.
What is the AqP designation?
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The Aquatic Professional (AqP) designation recognizes excellence in aquatic management, often in collaboration with international education platforms. It establishes you as a leading expert in drowning prevention and lifesaving education.
Where does my donation go?
A portion of all proceeds supports drowning prevention — funding Learn to Swim program lessons and grants for life jackets. Your contribution helps save lives, improve safety, and enhance aquatic experiences for countless individuals.
The International Aquatics & Water Safety Conference and Exposition is held annually. The 2027 conference takes place February 8–11 at the Grand Sierra Resort and Convention Center in Reno, NV.
When is the next conference?
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