Team Grit Masters
At The Grit Game, we don’t just teach pool care – we live it. Our instructors are seasoned industry veterans who’ve been in the trenches, solved the toughest challenges, and built reputations as trusted leaders.
Each instructor brings their own expertise, style, and stories to the classroom, making every session both practical and inspiring. They’re not just educators, they’re innovators, mentors, and problem-solvers who know how to set you up for success.
Get to know these pros, find the right fit for your journey, and step into your next class with confidence.
STEVE ELY
Steve Ely has over 35 years of combined technical, mechanical, and multifamily operations experience, and brings a deep hands-on understanding of property maintenance, building systems, and workforce training. Steve’s career started with 13 years as an automotive mechanic, where he developed strong diagnostic, electrical, and mechanical skills. He then transitioned into the multifamily industry, where he spent the past 22 years supporting property operations, service teams, and large-scale maintenance programs.
For the last 7 years, Steve has specialized as a Technical Trainer, delivering high-quality instruction to maintenance professionals across multiple disciplines. He is a Certified Pool Operator Instructor, OSHA 10 & 30 Authorized Outreach Instructor, EPA 608 Proctor, and HVAC-Certified Technician, as well as a Certified Generator Technical Instructor. His training approach blends real-world experience with clear communication, hands-on demonstration, and industry-standard best practices.
Steve is committed to developing strong, confident maintenance teams and improving safety, compliance, and technical excellence across the multifamily industry.
Could this be you?
Team Grit isn’t just a name, it’s a mindset. Some join through interviews. Others show up and prove they belong. That’s how we’ve built a crew of the industry’s boldest problem-solvers—leaders who teach with heart, hustle with purpose, and aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.
Whether it’s EPA 608 Certification, Low GWP A2L refrigerant training, or other specialized technical programs, we’re raising the bar for what professional education looks like. From trade shows to training days, we show up where it counts. We move fast, think big, and hold each other accountable.
If you’re ready to grow something real, leave your mark, and be part of a team that’s rewriting the rules, click below to apply or learn more.
GET answers from AN expert.
Natalie Hood started her aquatics journey as a lifeguard before becoming a competitive swimmer. She even pushed herself to Olympic trials—sidelined only by injury, proving the grit and determination that defines her career. From teaching little ones how to swim to shaping the industry itself, Natalie’s impact runs deep. At the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), she helped maintain and update the CPO® certification program, working closely with state and local jurisdictions as well as the CDC to keep it aligned with regulations. She also played a major role in the design and updates of the official handbook, while strengthening the program’s reach through collaboration with U.S., Canadian, and international partners.
Now at The Grit Game Natalie, is dedicated to helping more pros find success and would love to help you on your own aquatic journey.
You can book time with Natalie below and pick her brain one-on-one or fire off your questions using the form here and get the real answers straight to your inbox. Either way—you’re not waiting on hold, you’re getting the good stuff, fast.
Natalie Hood started her aquatics journey as a lifeguard before becoming a competitive swimmer. She even pushed herself to Olympic trials—sidelined only by injury, proving the grit and determination that defines her career. From teaching little ones how to swim to shaping the industry itself, Natalie’s impact runs deep. At the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), she helped maintain and update the CPO® certification program, working closely with state and local jurisdictions as well as the CDC to keep it aligned with regulations. She also played a major role in the design and updates of the official handbook, while strengthening the program’s reach through collaboration with U.S., Canadian, and international partners.
Now at The Grit Game Natalie, is dedicated to helping more pros find success and would love to help you on your own aquatic journey.
You can book time with Natalie below and pick her brain one-on-one or fire off your questions using the form here and get the real answers straight to your inbox. Either way—you’re not waiting on hold, you’re getting the good stuff, fast.
Thank you to our Grit education Sponsor
