In Their Own Words: Why I Wanted to Work at Emler & Why I Stay

Emler Swim School is lucky to have an amazing team. Parents and job seekers often wonder what first attracted these stand-out employees, what their favorite aspects are of the job, and what new things they learned about water safety. While it’s no accident that the answers have similar themes – Emler has been named one of the best places to work by multiple publications – the answers are as varied as the number of fish in the sea. 

Frankie Cruz, General Manager of our Houston Vintage Park swim school, shares his Emler story. 

1. Why did you want to work at Emler?

I wanted to work at Emler for a couple of reasons. The first reason is that my sister worked at Emler and told me nothing but amazing things about the company. She mentioned to me how she worked her way from the ground up and I wanted to do the same thing. She went the aquatic route while I went the customer service route. 

The second reason is because I wanted to be in a place where I can make a difference in someone’s life, and after 5 years in the company I’ve made an impact in so many people’s lives. I’ve made so many amazing memories. Not only that, each person who I’ve come in contact with has left a major impact on me.

2. What’s your favorite thing about it? 

My favorite thing about Emler is the culture! I love how I can be myself around anyone I come in contact with. As part of the LGBTQ+ community, being myself is the most important thing to me. Many of my teammates and leaders I’ve had over the years have made me feel so welcomed and loved that it’s been surreal. 

Another favorite about being at Emler are the times we all get together for our holiday parties and field day events. We all have a competitive nature and want to always be the best, and with field day we can do exactly that!

3. What’s one new thing you learned about water safety?

One new thing I’ve learned is the impact that water safety instruction has on a child. Each week they are safer than they were the week before, and because of that, it builds a sense of healthy confidence–if something were to happen, they would know what to do. It also provides our families with a sense of relief that their children are going to be okay. 

The biggest example I can give is our Clothesline Week. This is where we practice our “Jump, Turn, Swim” safety skills with our kiddos with their clothes on. This gives it a more realistic experience of what to do if they fall into the pool with their clothes. To see the strength and courage of each child is so huge! They’re overcoming a fear and understand what to do in case they are ever in that situation.

Interested in learning more about working at Emler Swim School?

Check out our job openings, learn what makes Emler THE place to work, find out what makes a great swim teacher, or learn how to prepare for your first job interview.