The Association of Aquatic Professionals (AOAP) and Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance Aquatic Health and Safety
The Association of Aquatic Professionals (AOAP) and the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC) are excited to announce a new strategic partnership designed to enhance public health, advance aquatic safety, and support science-based practices across the aquatics industry.
This partnership establishes CMAHC as a subsidiary organization operating under AOAP governance and leadership while preserving CMAHC’s distinct public health mission, technical expertise, and organizational identity. AOAP will assume responsibility for governance, administration, and operational support, ensuring the continued advancement of Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC) development, technical guidance, research collaboration, and public health education initiatives.
By integrating administrative and operational functions, both organizations aim to strengthen the long-term sustainability, visibility, and impact of CMAHC and maintain vital relationships with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), health officials, researchers, and industry stakeholders. This unified structure will foster greater collaboration between aquatic and public health professionals, streamline administrative processes, and expand educational and research outreach.
Under the new agreement, CMAHC will continue as a separate nonprofit corporation, with AOAP serving as its sole corporate member. CMAHC’s Advisory Council, composed of technical experts, researchers, and health officials, will play a central role in guiding technical, scientific, and public health initiatives, while AOAP provides executive leadership, financial administration, and operational management.
The partnership preserves CMAHC’s independent voice on technical matters, especially in developing and administering the Model Aquatic Health Code and its update process. AOAP will support and amplify CMAHC’s educational programs, research priorities, and technical resources, while ensuring operational continuity and financial stewardship.
“This partnership marks a significant milestone for the aquatics and public health communities. By uniting the strengths of AOAP and CMAHC, we are creating a more powerful, unified force dedicated to advancing safety, education, and science-based standards across the industry. Together, we can drive innovation, support professionals, and ensure healthier, safer aquatic environments for all. I am thrilled for the future and the positive impact this collaboration will bring.”
— Juliene Hefter, Executive Director & CEO, Association of Aquatic Professionals
“Partnering with AOAP is a milestone for CMAHC and the entire aquatics industry. By uniting our expertise, we are securing the future of our mission to champion public health and aquatic safety. Together, we will elevate the Model Aquatic Health Code and drive innovation, education, and best practices nationwide. We are thrilled to see the lasting impact this collaboration will bring to our members and their facilities.”
— Kevin Post, Acting Executive Director, Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC)
About the Association of Aquatic Professionals: The Association of Aquatic Professionals is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Our goal is to bring together professionals from all aspects of aquatics to network, educate, advocate, enrich, and improve the aquatics industry across the United States and internationally. Additionally, AOAP provides free water safety and drowning prevention materials for organizations, parents, and caregivers.
About the Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code (CMAHC): The CMAHC is a nonprofit organization focused on advancing public health and aquatic safety through the development and maintenance of the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC)—a science-based, data-driven guidance document used nationwide. CMAHC engages the aquatic and public health communities to develop technical guidance, research, and educational resources that support healthy and safe aquatic environments.
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