CMAHC Ambassador Program

Mike is currently the Aquatics Supervisor for the City of Lompoc at the Lompoc Aquatic Center where he oversees the day-to-day operations of a large, indoor multi-attraction aquatic facility. Prior to his current position, Mike held positions with the YMCA of the USA as the Aquatic Safety Specialist and the American National Red Cross as the Manager for Aquatics Technical Development. Mike has been involved in the aquatics field for over 35 years and has held various aquatic supervisory positions in California, Florida and Virginia. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education with a major in Recreation Administration and a minor in Outdoor Recreation from the University of Tennessee. Mike is a cofounder and past president of the Association of Aquatic Professionals (AOAP) and a former commissioner on the City of Morro Bay’s Recreation Commission (2018-2022). He currently serves on the CMAHC Education Committee.

Joe Stefanyak is a Director with Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc., where he brings over 30 years of aquatic industry experience. In his current role, Joe is responsible for client relationships, which includes 600 municipalities, corporate and private waterparks, and water resorts throughout the United States and in various countries abroad. He works with each to continue the evaluation and implementation of the standard operating procedure in relation to the Comprehensive Aquatic Risk Management Program. A well-respected leader in the aquatics industry, Joe has contributed to several textbooks, articles, industry publications, and webinars. Joe is also an active participant in IAAPA, WWA, AIMS, NAARSO, AOAP, PAPA and various state and regional committees, and is a participating member of ASTM. Joe was a part of the original MAHC Operator Training Technical Committee and CMAHC Annex Review Committee, and is currently a member of both the CMAHC Technical Review Committee and the CMAHC Education Committee. Joe's awards and accolades include: 2014 World Waterpark Association – Kelly Ogle Memorial Safety Award Recipient; 2016 E&A Legacy of Service Award; 2020 POWER 10 by Aquatics International Magazine; and most recently, the 2022 World Waterpark Association – Al Turner Memorial Safety Award Recipient. 

Miklos Valdez is the Studio Director for the Counsilman-Hunsaker Aquatic Management Program (CHAMP) Studio which provides services to enhance safety and sustainability at aquatic centers. In the role of Studio Director, Miklos’ primary responsibilities are focused on Counsilman-Hunsaker Aquatic Management Program services including facility operations analysis and feasibility study analysis. Miklos has over 10 years of recreation and aquatics experience as a pool and waterpark operator of indoor and outdoor facilities, competition pools, and fitness facilities. His facility management expertise provides a vast understanding of aquatics operations including large scale facility operations encompassing everything from pool chemical maintenance to swim meet management.

Miklos earned a degree from Baylor University and holds certifications as a Certified Pool Operator Instructor, Lifeguard Instructor Trainer, Aquatic Examiner, Water Safety Instructor, and CPR/First Aid Instructor Trainer. He has served as the Technical Review Committee Chair for the MAHC 5th Edition, served on the 4th Edition Technical Review Committee as a member, and is a member of the CMAHC Education Committee. 

Coming soon!