What happens when two friends strike out on their own to start a company?

They work hard, have fun, and grow into one of the largest and most successful aquatic architecture and engineering firms in the country.

To our clients, partners, and friends, thank you for 40 amazing years of collaboration and trust from envisioning dreams to designing innovative spaces and creating unforgettable experiences.

Here's to 40+ more years!

OUR FOUNDING FATHERS

Back in the 1980’s, long time friends Randy Mendioroz and Scott Ferrell joined together and ventured out to create Aquatic Design Group. Their vision was clear: to produce impeccable architectural and engineering documents that not only met the highest standards but also streamlined the construction process. Together, they not only delivered successful aquatics projects around the globe, but perfected the art of partnership, each contributing their exceptional skills and allowing their unique strengths to shine. Fun people designing fun water.

Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay area, Randy Mendioroz got his start in the aquatics industry at 24 years old working for California Pools Construction, a residential pool design-builder. Two years later, Randy moved into the public sector working for California Commercial Pools. His first waterpark experience was as a project manager during the construction of Raging Waters in San Dimas, California, followed by working as a freelance Project Manager of several large waterparks around the world before founding Aquatic Design Group in 1984.

A member of the World Waterpark Association’s Hall of Fame, Randy’s untimely passing in 2013 was mourned throughout the aquatics industry. His lasting contribution lies in his pioneering leadership, which facilitated the integration of private-sector waterpark amenities into public-sector aquatic centers. Aquatic Design Group's projects became trailblazers by incorporating traditionally waterpark-only features into publicly funded pools, including large waterslides, standing waves, river currents, thematic elements, and interactive play areas. This innovative approach based on Randy’s research and advice not only enhanced user experience but also ensured the continued operation of competitive pools, which could now be subsidized by revenue from these amenities. Randy's visionary guidance continues to shape the aquatics industry today as these types of elements are only becoming more popular at today’s aquatic centers.

Scott Ferrell was born in Los Angeles County and grew up in the aquatics industry. Being mentored by his father, an engineer for the Army Corps of Engineers and also the head engineer for the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, Scott learned to survey land, inspect local dams, and draw topographic maps at a young age. This provided a unique skill set that has aided Scott in his understanding of mechanics and creativity throughout the years.

Scott's leadership qualities are evident not just in his professional career but also in his active roles within his community and Church. Following Randy's passing, Scott not only took charge of a grieving workforce but also excelled in his own artistic and design responsibilities. Under his guidance, Aquatic Design Group has continued to thrive year after year and his work leaves an indelible mark on the landscape of aquatics facilities.

Perhaps one of Scott's most enduring legacies is his unwavering commitment to "Family First." His devotion to his wife, children, grandchildren, and Church family has been a driving force behind his every endeavor. They are his inspiration; this value has permeated his work, extending to his employees and their families.

Scott passes his work ethic as well as his talent for design on to his son, Greg Ferrell, AIA, Vice President and Principal Architect of Aquatic Design Group.

Aquatic Design Group is a highly trained group of talented design professionals, including project managers, technicians and administrative staff, all guided by a passion for aquatic facilities and those who experience them.

Our staff includes: a third generation pool designer; a former distributor of pool equipment and chemicals; an All-American and several Division I swimmers; former aquatic facility managers, lifeguards, and swim lesson instructors; a pool contractor with more than 30 years’ experience building pools; and others that love playing in the water with or without their families.

We know what it takes to bring an aquatic facility to reality.
Plain and simple: we love what we do and we do it well.

The passion, creativity, and hard work of our dedicated staff have been the driving force behind Aquatic Design Group's success over the past 40 years. Unwavering commitment to excellence has made every success possible, and we look forward to many more years of collaboration and innovation together! As we celebrate our 40th anniversary as a firm, several key staff members are also reaching employment milestones with Aquatic Design Group:

Noel Castillo, Senior Designer | 35 years

Dennis Berkshire, Principal / President | 25 years

Alejandro Pinnick, Senior Designer | 10 years

Scott Palmer, Director of Marketing | 10 years

Michelle Gable, Project Manager | 5 years

Principals Justin Caron, MBA, CEO and Dennis Berkshire, AFO, CFO, President continue to lead the firm into a promising future ahead. Both regularly present educational sessions sharing their knowledge around the country at regional, national, and international conferences. Learn more about our firm leadership here.

Our award-winning designs are not just blueprints, but invitations to communities and guests to come together - to learn, to play, and to create lasting memories.

Some notable projects over the decades include:

Join us as we embark on a new era, leveraging the solid foundation laid by completing over 3,500 projects in 47 states and 32 countries over the past 40 years. From study to concept to completion, we're here to support you and turn your vision into a stunning reality.

Contact Aquatic Design Group to learn more about our comprehensive services and see how our expertise, creativity, and commitment can elevate your next aquatics project. Your continued dedication and support mean the world to us, and we're excited to collaborate with you on the exciting projects that lie ahead!