Helping Tampa Bay Relax
The Island Way Since 2006
In 1995, before we were designing luxury pools and outdoor living spaces, the Island Way team was known for delivering quality hardscape solutions to Clearwater Beach and waterfront properties throughout Pinellas County. While on these properties, we saw a clear need in the Tampa Bay area for pool contractors who not only provided reliable construction but also had an eye for luxurious design. In 2006, we expanded our services to meet that need: offering new pool construction, pool remodels, and complete outdoor living construction. Since then, we’ve proudly transformed over 1,500 backyards for homeowners across Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Polk, Citrus, Hernando, Sumter, Sarasota, Manatee, & Charlotte counties.
Our team has been dedicated to the same goal: to build Tampa Bay the highest quality pools with a touch of luxury. No matter the size of your pool project, we want you to go through a stress free process while our team of pool pros constructs your dream outdoor living space. Are you ready to start relaxing The Island Way?
The Island Way Team
Get to know the team ready to bring your dream pool to life. At Island Way Pools, we have assembled a group of talented professionals who combine fresh ideas with a passion for design. Our team is dedicated to creating innovative pools that reflect the vision and lifestyle of each client.
I am a Florida native and have lived in Pinellas County my entire life. I graduated from Palm Harbor University and went to St. Petersburg College.
My role here at Island Way is to over-see and perform the tasks involved in the sales process. I strive to provide exceptional customer service as I communicate with clients on a day to day basis.
I design all 3D renderings in house and they are always custom to the clients property and dream for their backyard. I include everything in your rendering from pool design, spa, screen enclosure, outdoor kitchens, custom decks, fire features, water features, and infinity edges. If you can dream it, we can build it.
Zachary Case
Director of Sales
I am a Florida native and grew up in Pinellas County where I graduated from Osceola High School. After high school, I joined the US Army where I served in Germany, Iraq, and Fort Knox, Kentucky before being medically retired in 2009. I have since Graduated from St. Petersburg College with my Bachelor's Degree in Business and Operation Management. I pride myself as a family man with six wonderful kids and a beautiful wife.
My role at Island Way Pools is to handle the day to day operations for the company. I lead a team of project managers and contractors to complete the entire pool build from pre-site to finish in a timely and productive manner.
Jacob Leach
Director of Operations
From the east coast of Florida, I come from Deerfield Beach and bring my personal touch and humor to the Island Way Team. With a degree in Psychology and Communication from U.S.F, I use my innovative skills and communication to ensure that each project is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional.
In my role as General Manager, I leverage my extensive industry knowledge and network to drive growth and expansion of Island Way Pools while maintaining my focus on client success.
I have been an aquatic enthusiast and advocate since birth. As a young child and throughout high school I was an avid member of the swim team in Ft. Lauderdale. I previously worked through the ranks of not only the Tampa Metro YMCA, but also as a highly decorated sailor in US Naval Aviation. When I am not diligently working with clients, I teach my 2 daughters the only way to enter the pool is to cannonball. I enjoy live music, traveling abroad and domestic, as well as spending quality time with friends and family.
Joey Mathews
Sales Manager
Amber Lissy
Administrative Director
I coordinate the day to day administrative tasks for Island Way Pools. I also am responsible for getting permits issued. I work directly with the various building departments all while maintaining the customer relationship.
I have my Master’s Degree in Project Management and my passion is web & graphic design.
Prior to starting full-time with Island Way, my focus was on raising my children and working from home as a freelance designer. I still run a very successful Etsy shop with my oldest step-daughter.
Steven Tractenberg
Design & Sales Associate
I am originally from Long Island New York and relocated to Florida 7 years ago. When I am not at work, I enjoy playing in my band all over Pinellas County and enjoy going out on the water on the jetski or boat and will always make time to watch the NY Rangers. I loves being apart of the Island Way Pools family and am the one of the newest members of the team. I specialize in providing you a client-first approach to achieving your pool design and am passionate about helping homeowners turn their backyards into personal retreats for their families.
Alex Cuellar
Design & Sales Associate
I am a Florida native that has lived in Hillsborough and Pinellas County my entire life. I graduated from Dunedin Highschool. My role here at Island Way is to help clients design and bring to life the backyard of their dreams while providing top tier customer service.
Joe Scroppo
Senior Project Manager
My position as project manager at Island Way Pools is to oversee the day to day progress on the job sites. I strive to manage the expectations and communication of our customers and our operations team to ensure our customers are always pleased with the building process. When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my two children and my beautiful wife.
Tyler Pierson
Assistant Project Manager
I oversee Island Way pool projects and work with homeowners to see their pool project through to success and create lasting memories.
Outside of work I like to fish and golf.
Brian Rogers
Project Manager
I grew up in Arlington, Massachusetts. I serve as a Project Manager for Island Way Pools where I work closely with and manage construction crews. I maintain transparent, open communication with homeowners throughout the building process. Outside of my professional work, I enjoy gaming, quiet days at the beach, and sports betting.
I have been a proud member of the Island Way Pools team for over four years, where I oversee permitting communications from the initial application through final approval and permit closeout. I strive to keep our customers informed with timely updates while working behind the scenes to ensure each project progresses smoothly.
As a Florida native who grew up in Safety Harbor, I have always enjoyed spending time outdoors and appreciating Florida’s natural beauty, from our sunny beaches to our natural springs. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé, family, and friends, because making time for the people I love matters most to me.
Abbey Dailey
Office & Permitting Coordinator
I focus primarily on financial operations, business performance, and maintaining the company’s overall financial health. Prior to joining Island Way, I spent 15 years in asset management, spanning roles from sales to operational marketing and project management. I now apply that experience to help drive the continued growth and financial strength of Island Way.
Outside of work, I’m a musician and guitarist who enjoys staying active, being on the water, and spending time with family and friends.
Nick Kelly
Financial Operations Manager
I walk the client through the consultation and sales process to ensure comfortability and confidence and make sure we tailor the build to the clients needs. I also am Pool Studio Certified and educated in creating the design rendering for the client so they can see how their dream can come to life.
I am born and raised from Palm Harbor Florida. Love reading the Bible and attending church. I enjoy the outdoors; love to fish onshore, ride bikes around local towns and take my Goldendoodle on walks at the park.
Devin Larrabee
Sales & Design Associate
I am born and raised in Sarasota, Florida. I work within our warranty department, assisting with communications and schedule coordination through our teams and office.
Outside of work, you can usually find me enjoying the outdoors, spending a day at the beach, or hanging out with friends and family.
Merideth Ward
Warranty Coordinator
I am born and raised in Sarasota, Florida. I turn any and all leads into finished designs and proposals ready for clients. I provide every client with any and all personalized features that were requested in both the design and proposal.
I enjoy watching Baseball, College Football, and F1. My hobbies include knife collecting, cars, and hanging at home with my girlfriend and dog.
Mitchell Ward
Lead Designer
I am from Southington CT. I have been in Florida for 8+ years. I am in charge of running the dig crews and plumbing crews.
Outside of work, I like to go boating, motorcycle riding and working out. I have been in the construction industry for about 30 years.
Paul Appelle
Lead Construction Operator
I am from Pinellas Park. My job duties include servicing completed projects and communicating with clients.
Outside of work, I enjoy fishing and traveling.
Richard Tatro
Service Technician
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a pool project cost?
All of our pool projects are custom quoted based on features included, materials selected, and site conditions. Our concrete shell pools start at a base price of $58,650 with 350 sq. ft of pool space and 500 sq. ft of decking included while our pool+spa package starts at $78,650. Check out our blog post diving deeper into the cost of a pool project: "How Much Does a Concrete Pool Cost?"
I have a small backyard. Can I still have a pool built?
You can absolutely have a pool built in a small backyard! Small or uniquely shaped properties just require some flexibility with the design as we work around your county's regulations. Small pools, cocktail pools, plunge pools, and spools have been a popular trend in recent years as people look to fit more than a pool in their outdoor living space!
How long does it take to build a pool?
On average a pool project takes 3-4 months from the start of permitting to you being able to swim. After you have your initial design and have made your material selections, our Director of Sales Zach can let you know if any aspect of your pool project may affect this timeline. Check out our blog for a deep dive into the pool building timeline: "How Long Does It Take To Build A Pool?"
Will my pool or outdoor living project have a warranty?
Yes, every component of your pool project has a warranty offered and the warranty varies by item. During the installation process, we will get you everything you need to know about our warranties for the products we are using. Check out our warranty page to learn more: "Warranty & Service Request"