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City of Aiken
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AUSTIN RIPPY
By Rakesha Gaines, City of Aiken
The City of Aiken Public Pool was among the many aquatic facilities that struggled to find staff this summer. Despite shortages, we successfully opened our pool, thanks to the dedication of Recreation Program Coordinator, Austin Rippy. Austin joined the City of Aiken Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department in April of 2021 and began his first summer overseeing operations of the pool. Austin earned |his Aquatic Facility Operator and Lifeguard certification, but little did he know how important this decision would be a year later! Though slated to hire ten seasonal staff, we were only able to onboard six, consisting of two Water Safety Instructors, three Lifeguards, and one slide attendant. Naturally, this decreased our available operating hours of the pool. Austin quickly adapted, and adjusted the schedule to compliment that of the Aiken County public pool. Doing so ensured the community had access to public swim every day of the week. In mid-July, two Lifeguards resigned, which meant another review of our operating hours. Austin stepped in to work occasional lifeguard shifts in order to keep the pool open during advertised hours. At the end of July, the two Water Safety Instructors resigned. With one dedicated Lifeguard and one slide attendant remaining, Austin had to overcome an even greater scheduling challenge. Austin adjusted the pool schedule and transitioned to a seasonal lifeguard for the remainder of the season. With his dedication, we were able to remain open! As a Recreation Program Coordinator, Austin has additional responsibilities and programs outside of pool operations. Austin could have quickly suggested closure of the pool, but instead, he took the initiative and ensured our community needs were met. Austin is a prime example of dedication “beyond the business card!”and making the most of a less than ideal situation!
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