Training & Certification
We offer StarGuard Elite lifeguard certification and Certified Pool Operator (CPO) courses throughout spring and early summer. Review schedules, prerequisites, and registration details below.
Lifeguard Certification
StarGuard Elite training used for AGM staff and seasonal hires.
Aqua-Guard uses StarGuard Elite because it emphasizes surveillance, early recognition, rescue technique, and emergency response. The course covers the skills guards need to work a commercial or community deck.
Swim Pre-Test Requirements
All candidates must pass a swim pre-test at the beginning of class before training begins. Make sure you are comfortable in the water before registering.
- 300-yard continuous swim — without stopping or resting (any stroke)
- Tread water for 2 minutes — using legs only, hands out of the water
- Retrieve a 10 lb brick — from the bottom of the deep end, return to start, exit without using a ladder
Who Should Attend
Aspiring lifeguards, current guards seeking renewal, and new Aqua-Guard lifeguard and pool manager hires
Duration
2-Day Course (16+ hrs)
Cert Valid
1 Year
Min Age
15 Years
Pre-Test
Swim test required
What You'll Learn
- Proactive victim recognition & surveillance techniques
- StarGuard 10/20 protection standard
- Water rescue skills: active, passive, submerged
- CPR/AED for adults, children, and infants
- First Aid for aquatic and non-aquatic emergencies
- Spinal injury management and backboarding
- Emergency Action Plan development & drill practice
- Lifeguard rotations, zone coverage, and scanning
- Patron communication and rule enforcement
Lifeguard Training Schedule
All participants must attend every day of their selected class. Review dates carefully before registering.
Classroom — Schaumburg Office
1034 Lunt Ave, Schaumburg, IL 60193
Pool — Lake Arlington Towne
2601 N. Lake Arlington Dr., Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Class #1
2-Day Weekend Class — Must attend all 2 days
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Day 1
Classroom — Schaumburg Office
1034 Lunt Ave, Schaumburg, IL 60193
Sunday, April 12, 2026
Day 2
Pool — Lake Arlington Towne
2601 N. Lake Arlington Dr., Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Class #2
2-Day Weekend Class — Must attend all 2 days
Saturday, April 25, 2026
Day 1
Classroom — Schaumburg Office
1034 Lunt Ave, Schaumburg, IL 60193
Sunday, April 26, 2026
Day 2
Pool — Lake Arlington Towne
2601 N. Lake Arlington Dr., Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Class #3
2-Day Weekend Class — Must attend all 2 days
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Day 1
Classroom — Schaumburg Office
1034 Lunt Ave, Schaumburg, IL 60193
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Day 2
Pool — Lake Arlington Towne
2601 N. Lake Arlington Dr., Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Class #4
4-Day Weeknight Class — Must attend all 4 days
Monday, May 11, 2026
Day 1
Classroom — Schaumburg Office
1034 Lunt Ave, Schaumburg, IL 60193
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Day 2
Pool — Lake Arlington Towne
2601 N. Lake Arlington Dr., Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Day 3
Pool — Lake Arlington Towne
2601 N. Lake Arlington Dr., Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Thursday, May 14, 2026
Day 4
Classroom — Schaumburg Office
1034 Lunt Ave, Schaumburg, IL 60193
Class #5
2-Day Weekend Class — Must attend all 2 days
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Day 1
Classroom — Schaumburg Office
1034 Lunt Ave, Schaumburg, IL 60193
Sunday, May 17, 2026
Day 2
Pool — Lake Arlington Towne
2601 N. Lake Arlington Dr., Arlington Heights, IL 60004
This class typically fills last and may close first. An earlier class is usually easier to secure.
Questions about the schedule? Call Patricia.
Call Patricia — (847) 277-9840 Ext. 2Register for a
Lifeguard Class
Submit the form and our team will confirm availability and next steps.
Looking for CPO certification? Register through the Aquatic Council using the schedule section above.
5 Classes Available
April 11 through May 17, 2026 — weekend and weeknight options
Two Locations
Classroom at our Schaumburg office · Pool at Lake Arlington Towne
StarGuard Elite Certified
Nationally recognized certification valid for 1 year
Certified Pool/Spa Operator
Industry-standard operator training for commercial pool staff.
Aqua-Guard works with the Aquatic Council to offer the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance CPO program. Successful participants earn a five-year certification covering water chemistry, operations, safety, and code compliance.
Course Formats & Tuition
In-Person 2-Day CPO
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET each day
Online 2-Day CPO (Zoom)
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET each day
Online Fusion 1-Day CPO
8 hrs self-paced E-Learning + 1-day live session
Tuition includes materials, textbook, examination, and five-year certification. A 3.5% service fee applies for credit card payments.
Your Instructors
Tim Auerhahn
Eight-time recipient of the Distinguished Instructor Award from the World Aquatic Health Conference. Since 2015, Tim has certified more operators worldwide than any other instructor. An Ohio State alumnus (B.S. Sports Management, M.S. Strategic Leadership), Tim has served in operations, education, risk-management, and leadership capacities with nationally recognized brands, athletic facilities, and universities. His seminars are among the highest reviewed in the industry.
Jeremy Mortorff
Teaches the 1-Day Fusion courses. Jeremy is responsible for budget development, personnel and facility safety at one of the busiest aquatic complexes in Pennsylvania, welcoming over 2,000 guests on their busiest days. A Certified Parks and Recreation Professional, Lifeguard Instructor, and active leader in the Pennsylvania Recreation and Parks Society, he regularly facilitates emerging trends in Midwest and Northeast aquatics.
Who Should Attend
Pool managers, facility managers, hotel and motel engineering staff, seasonal aquatic staff, recreation facility managers, public health sanitarians, and anyone planning to build or renovate a pool
Duration
1 or 2-Day Options
Cert Valid
5 Years
Tuition
From $395
Exam
Open-book/open-note
What You'll Learn
- Chemical treatment techniques and water chemistry
- Filtration systems and mechanical operation
- Pool and spa maintenance best practices
- State and municipal pool/spa operating codes
- Indoor & outdoor water park operation
- Energy-efficient pool operation and cost savings
- Health and safety standards compliance
- Equipment troubleshooting and repair fundamentals
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can't pass the exam?
If you review the textbook, pay attention in class, and complete the first day's homework, you will probably pass the open-book/open-note exam. A re-take can be scheduled for $75.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations more than five business days in advance receive a full refund, less material fees ($100 Traditional / $150 Fusion). You may also transfer your registration to a future course or substitute another person.
Can I earn continuing education credit?
Yes, if your organization is on our list of approved providers. We handle the paperwork if you notify our office two weeks before the course.
Is there a group discount?
Yes. Discounts of 10% are available when you enroll five or more individuals.
How do I prepare?
The textbook includes the most complete and current information available. We recommend reviewing it before the course. We'll ship it to you if we receive your paid reservation 5 days prior.
CPO Course Schedule
Choose a course format below. Each option includes accredited instruction, materials, examination, and five-year certification.
Tuesday & Wednesday
Thursday & Friday
Monday & Tuesday
Thursday & Friday
Monday & Tuesday
Monday & Tuesday
Monday & Tuesday
Wednesday & Thursday
Monday & Tuesday
Wednesday & Thursday
Thursday & Friday
Monday & Tuesday
Ready to register?
Download the registration form below, fill it out, and email it to CPO@aquaguardmanagement.com to secure your spot.
Join the
Aqua-Guard Team
We hire lifeguards, pool managers, lead service techs, and service technicians for seasonal roles across Chicagoland. Phone interviews and online training are available.