Owner, Tom Gilbert, has over 24 years of experience in the pool industry. He started in the field as a laborer and worked his way up to starting and owning his own company. Tom is not just the business owner but an acute, hands-on builder. He frequently takes classes to improve his knowledge of the pool industry, all safety aspects along with using green building initiatives, and strives to use only state-of-the-art pool technology.
Tom is a native of Ormond Beach. He and his wife, Rachael, grew up in the area and will be around for many years to come as they raise their young son, JT. Tom is also an avid surfer, fisherman, and golfer.
Tom has a long track record of community involvement and is affiliated with the following clubs and associations:
Tom Gilbert’s journey from a high school job to running a thriving custom pool and spa business is a testament to passion, perseverance, and vision. As the founder of East Coast Pools and Spas, Gilbert has transformed his initial foray into the pool industry into a flourishing enterprise known for its excellence in design, construction, and customer satisfaction.
A Passion Ignited Early
Gilbert’s story began at eighteen, when he took his first steps into the pool industry with Pinch-A-Penny. “I started by filling chlorine jugs and loading them into customers’ cars. It was a humble beginning, but it laid the groundwork for what was to come,” Gilbert recalls. His entrepreneurial spirit quickly emerged as he handed out business cards and began cleaning pools on the side. By the time he was twenty-two, Gilbert had enough clients to leave college behind and dedicate himself fully to his growing business.
With a few employees handling pool cleaning routes, Gilbert expanded into service calls and new pool startups. This period of growth was marked by the challenges of managing a growing business and a burgeoning team, but Gilbert’s determination and knack for learning quickly paid off. His company expanded to over 200 customers a month, a testament to his commitment and skill.
From Service to Construction
As his business grew, Gilbert’s ambitions did too. At twenty-seven, he decided to add pool construction to his repertoire. “I earned my contractor’s license and knew I needed to learn the ropes of building pools. I worked for the best subcontractors for free to gain the necessary knowledge and skills,” he explains. His initial foray into pool construction was both challenging and enlightening, laying a solid foundation for the business practices he adheres to today.
One particularly memorable project was building a pool inside a home on the third story in Ocean Hammock, Palm Coast. “It was the most challenging project I’ve ever undertaken,” Gilbert admits. “Navigating logistics and construction in such a unique setting tested our skills and creativity.”
A Testament to Excellence
East Coast Pools and Spas has garnered significant recognition over the years, a reflection of Gilbert’s dedication to excellence. The company has consistently won Readers’ Choice Awards since 2014 and has been honored with the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA) Design Awards from 2020 to 2024. In 2022, they also received the FSPA Best in Show Award and the News Journal’s Best of the Best Award, alongside an NSPA Award for pool building.
Despite these accolades, Gilbert remains grounded and focused on what he believes sets his company apart: a commitment to in-house construction. “We handle most of the work ourselves, which means our clients see our own team working on their projects rather than a rotating cast of subcontractors. This approach helps us maintain high standards and ensure a smooth experience for our clients,” he explains.
Looking Ahead
When asked what he would do differently if starting over, Gilbert is resolute: “Nothing. Every challenge and success has shaped the business into what it is today.” His vision for the future is clear—continue to grow and build the most extraordinary pools possible. Gilbert’s passion for his work is evident in every project he undertakes, and his desire to push boundaries ensures that East Coast Pools and Spas will remain at the forefront of the industry.
Outside of work, Gilbert enjoys fishing, hunting, golf, and surfing, pursuits that offer him a well-rounded balance to his professional life. His dedication to giving back is equally noteworthy; he contributes generously to schools, athletics, and those in need, reflecting his commitment to his community.
Family and Inspiration
Gilbert’s family is an integral part of his life. He and his wife, Rachael Gilbert, share their lives with their sixteen-year-old son, JT Gilbert, and their two dogs, Oreo and Otis. Together, they enjoy spending time outdoors and supporting each other’s interests.
When it comes to inspiration, Gilbert is self-reliant. “I try to do my own thing and draw inspiration from the pools built by other high-end builders. My focus is on delivering exceptional results,” he says.
A Quote for the Ages
Gilbert’s favorite quote—”Either you run the day or the day runs you. Remember, if people talk about you behind your back, it’s because you are two steps in front of them.”—encapsulates his approach to both business and life. It’s a reminder of the importance of taking control and pushing forward despite challenges and opinions.
Tom Gilbert’s journey is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication. From a young man filling chlorine jugs to a leading figure in the pool and spa industry, his story is a powerful example of how passion and perseverance can turn dreams into reality.
I was born in Marquette, Michigan at Sawyer Air Force Base in 1964. My parents were transferred back to Orlando, Florida in 1965 and I’ve been here since. I am a wife, mother to 2 gorgeous women and a grandmother to 3 beautiful, outgoing adventurous granddaughters. I have been in the swimming pool industry for 20 years. I enjoy working at East Coast Pools and Spas. The company as a whole is one big family and a great team to be a part of. I love going to the beach, traveling to the mountains, and spending time with family & friends.
I am from South Florida. I have lived all over Florida, Vegas, and North Carolina. I moved to Ormond Beach five years ago. I enjoy the outdoors, festivals, rallies, and anything with music and fun people. I have never been in the pool business before, so I had a lot to learn but it is a great experience. I found a wonderful company to work for here at East Coast Pools and Spas.
As a former Residential Contractor in South Carolina specializing in design/build homes above 250K Craig has a knowledge and understanding of the construction business as well as a unique skill for designing custom pools and backyard living space. Craig has six children; the youngest, a daughter, is currently serving in the Army and stationed in Italy.
I’m a born and raised Ormond Beach local. I enjoy the outdoors. I’ve been working for East Coast Pools and Spas going on 15yrs. That says a lot about the company!
I have two daughters, 12 and 8 years old. I came from a long 23 years of roofing to building pools just over 2 years now and I love it! From layout, dig & steel, to plumbing and finishing touches. It is very rewarding to work for East Coast and I must say, Tom has been the best boss anyone could ask for! Great opportunity has found me here! Best employer hands down and love all I do for this team!
I’m 31 years old. I’ve been in the construction industry for about 10 years and now I’m in the pool construction business. I work for East Coast pools and spas I’ve been here for about a year I’m from Oakland California. I have two kids and I love the pool business.
I’m thirty-one years old, born and raised in Springfield Massachusetts. Ormond Beach Florida has been my happy home ever since leaving Springfield. Proud father of two awesome children. My boy Logan is four years old, and my little red headed monster Luna. Family, food, animals, and cars take up all of my time outside of work. I have been with East Coast Pools and Spas for over a year now and I don’t see myself changing that for anything. Fantastic environment and overall great work experience through and through!
Hello, my name is Charles Dowell, I’m 35 years old and I’m from Detroit Michigan. I’m a family kind of man, I like to dress to impress, I also like to write my own music. I’ve been with East Coast Pool and Spa for five months now! It’s definitely the best job opportunity I’ve ever had. And the most awesome people I’ve ever worked with!
My name is Austin I’m 23 I’m from Pennsylvania. I have no kids and my favorite thing to do is work and take care of my family and my girl. I have 3 sisters. I’m the only man. I been working with East Coast Pools And Spa for a year and 5 months the best company ever there my team players very proud to be apart of east coast pools and spa crew💙
Local Firefighter Paramedic working for the family company as a second job. In my free time I enjoy the gym and anything outdoors. I plan to attend nursing school in the near future to further serve the community. I look forward to working with you to make your backyard dreams a reality!
