Ryan Flynn
Waterpark Director
ISLAND Waterpark at the Showboat/Tower investments
Atlantic City, New Jersey - U.S.A.
Featured in
World Waterpark Magazine, September 2024
WHAT IS YOUR EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE?
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, along with 14 years of experience in the aquatics industry. I have experience in the following, but not limited to, recruiting, training, new park projects/development, running an operation and stabilizing/maximizing revenue streams. Although I have this experience, I am consistently looking for ways to improve and bring safe, splashing memories for families and my team!
WHAT CERTIFICATION OR LICENSING DO YOU HAVE?
I currently hold the following certifications: Red Cross Instructor Trainer, CPO (Certified Pool Operator) and Pennsylvania State Rides Inspector.
WHAT HONORS, AWARDS OR SPECIAL RECOGNITION HAVE YOU ACHIEVED?
The most recent accolade I have received was the World Waterpark Association’s Leading Edge Award for ISLAND Waterpark. In addition, I have received Director of the Month as well!
WHAT MADE YOU GO INTO THIS FIELD?
When I was younger, I was working as a cart pusher in the dead of winter and I was miserable. I had a friend that extended me an opportunity to become a lifeguard at a local waterpark in my area, so I took it. From there, I was hooked. I loved the atmosphere, seeing the smiles on people’s faces and of course, the warmth! After some time, I grew professionally and was offered an- other opportunity in Training and Recruitment and that became my passion.
WHAT ASPECT OF THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY DO YOU LIKE BEST?
My passion in this industry is training and recruiting. However, with my recent role I have found a love of opening new operations and being a part of every step and learning things I never dreamed of.
WHO HAS MOST INSPIRED YOU IN YOUR CAREER?
Many people have supported me and inspired me through each step of my aquatics career. In the first half of my career, I would say it’s a tie between two individuals, Daryl Morris and Kenrick Brewster. In the second half of my career, it would be Bart Blatstein. Each of these gentlemen have believed in my abilities, spunk and supported me throughout my career.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR WATERPARK CAREER?
My toughest challenge in my career thus far came when I was offered the role of the Waterpark Director for the first time. I was challenged with changing the culture of an operation that was already 6 years into its existence. The key to being successful in that role was understanding the importance of teamwork. It taught me a new level of compassion and patience.
HOW DO YOU KEEP FOCUSED AND MOTIVATED?
I reflect on my performance each and every day. In addition, my personal motto has been to “stay humble always!”
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN WORKING IN THE WATERPARK INDUSTRY?
With a little elbow grease, nothing is out of reach. This industry can be very challenging, but to succeed you have to truly believe in yourself and your abilities. Never try to become someone you are not. Simply stay true to yourself and people who are ready to see your worth will!
WHAT BOOKS OR PUBLICATIONS DO YOU RELY ON MOST FOR INSPIRATION OR MOTIVATION?
A lot of things that I rely on for inspiration and motivation do not come from pages in a book. Instead they have come from personal and professional hurdles and experiences. Along with this, the support and guidance that I have from my peers on what they had to do to accomplish the success they have has been a huge help.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
Currently the management team at ISLAND Waterpark is my absolute favorite part of my job. I have a family away from my family and I am proud of each one of them every day. They have supported me and my vi- sions and vice versa!
WHAT CAREER OR BUSINESS WOULD YOU CONSIDER IF YOU WERE STARTING ALL OVER AGAIN?
If I had to start all over again, I would walk the path to become a motivational speaker.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE WWA?
I was first involved with the WWA when I was invited to attend while I was working at Kalahari Resorts.
WHAT IS SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOU THAT FEW KNOW OR WOULD GUESS?
I love public speaking and have been honored to speak during events for the American Cancer Society in the past. •