Jasmin Samano
Senior Aquatics Director
Prime Time H2O Zone/Gretna Crossing YMCA
Gretna, Nebraska - U.S.A.
Featured in World Waterpark Magazine, June 2026
WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE?
I have 15 years of experience in the aquatics industry and currently serve as the Senior Aquatics Director for Gretna Crossing YMCA. While I completed some college coursework toward an associate degree, my professional growth has largely been shaped through hands-on leadership experience. In 2024, 1 played a key role in opening our waterpark and now oversee all aspects of its operations.
WHAT CERTIFICATION OR LICENSING DO YOU HAVE?
I am a Red Cross Certified Lifeguard, a Lifeguard Instructor Trainer (LGIT), and a Certified Pool Operator (CPO).
WHAT HONORS, AWARDS OR SPECIAL RECOGNITION HAVE YOU ACHIEVED?
I was honored to receive the YMCA USA 30 Under 30 Award, recognizing emerging leaders across the country.
WHAT MADE YOU GO INTO THIS FIELD?
I was drawn to aquatics because of the strong emphasis on safety, teamwork, and community impact. The ability to create a fun, safe environment while making a positive difference in people’s lives is what initially inspired me and what continues to motivate me today.
WHAT ASPECT OF THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY DO YOU LIKE BEST?
I enjoy the diversity of responsibilities and the collaborative nature of the work. From staffing and safety to maintenance and guest experience, every day brings new challenges. I’m especially proud to work alongside an incredible team, including a year-round aquatics manager and dedicated seasonal managers.
WHO HAS MOST INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
Cheryll Peterson-Brachle, who is currently the Risk Management & Training Resource Director at the Y. When I first started, she was my Aquatics Resource Director at the Y and has been the greatest source of inspiration in my career. Her leadership, guidance, and belief in developing others have had a lasting impact on my professional growth.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR WATERPARK CAREER?
Opening our first season without knowing exactly what to expect was a significant challenge. Navigating the unknown required flexibility, problem-solving, and strong teamwork, but it also became one of the most rewarding learning experiences of my career.
HOW DO YOU KEEP FOCUSED AND MOTIVATED?
I stay focused by setting clear goals, leaning on my team, and reminding myself of the impact our work has on guests and staff. Seeing our team grow and succeed is a constant source of motivation.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN WORKING IN THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY?
I will tell someone who is interested in working in the waterpark industry to be open to learning, ask questions, and not be afraid to start at the ground level. This industry offers incredible opportunities for growth if you’re willing to work hard, stay adaptable, and prioritize safety and guest experience.
WHAT BOOKS OR PUBLICATIONS DO YOU RELY ON MOST FOR INSPIRATION OR MOTIVATION?
I tend to read a wide range of materials based on what interests me at the time, rather than following specific publications consistently. I enjoy exploring new perspectives and ideas as they come up.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
My favorite part of the job is working with the team—mentoring staff, solving challenges together, and watching the park come to life each season through their hard work.
WHAT CAREER OR BUSINESS WOULD YOU CONSIDER IF YOU WERE STARTING ALL OVER AGAIN?
I love what I do, so I would likely still pursue a leadership role in a service-focused industry, particularly one centered on operations, safety, and team development.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE WWA?
I first connected with the World Waterpark Association through participation in the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson and through a WWA publication that featured our waterpark when it first opened. I attended the WWA Show at Disney in 2025, and it was an incredible first experience. It provided valuable insights across multiple areas of waterpark operations, from food-and-beverage enhancements to innovative marketing strategies. I came away with practical ideas and actionable takeaways that we can implement to elevate our own waterpark’s performance and guest experience.
WHAT IS SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOU THAT FEW KNOW OR WOULD GUESS?
Many people may not realize how much I enjoy the behind-the-scenes operational planning that goes into running a waterpark—it’s where I thrive and find the most satisfaction. •