About Bearfoot Management
Bearfoot Management was co-founded in 2008 by Charles Rakoski and Blake Harmer. Together they bring over 14 years of pool management and lifeguarding experience to Bearfoot Management. With their philosophy of open and honest interaction with their employees, and through their leadership, employees are encouraged to take pride and ownership in their work and to take their responsibility for the safety of the public seriously. The company fosters growth from within through training and promotion of individuals who demonstrate superior performance. Bearfoot Management understands the value of having seasoned core individuals who share their values and dedication to safety and service.
Almost immediately Bearfoot Management became a success. Charles and Blake realized that in order to maintain their hands-on approach to training, provide a superior level of service and to remain available to the communities they serve they would need assistance. Chad Avery joined the team in 2009, adding his 15 years of business and financial experience to the organization, thus allowing Charles and Blake to continue to focus on the training and safety aspects of their operation.
From the beginning Bearfoot Management introduced to the pool management / lifeguarding industry a new level of service. Bearfoot Management holds current Certified Pool Operator licenses with the National Swimming Pool Foundation and is a National Authorized Provider of the American Red Cross, (providing training in Life Saving, First Aid, CPR, AED, and Oxygen). Our goal is to provide our guests with a safe, clean, and fun environment. Safety is always our top priority. Safety is a team effort involving both lifeguards and parents. We believe that through strong leadership, and through setting a safe example, together we can be a better team and provide a safe environment. In order to provide a greater level of service Bearfoot Management encourages our employees to interact with the pool guests. In addition to being trained in life saving techniques employees are trained in superior customer service. Bearfoot Management extends this level of service beyond the normal day-to- day operations of a pool by offering swimming lessons, and through the creation and sponsorship of community activities such as swim teams, pool parties, and concerts, etc.
Meet the Staff
Charles E. Rakoski, President
Charles Rakoski, President of Bearfoot Management, strives to create a more positive world for our children by providing a safe and positive place for them to plan, (and work). In First Grade, Charles joined Cub Scouts, graduating to Boy Scouts and ultimately culminating his Scouting career by becoming an Eagle Scout in 2006. Among his adventures in Scouting, Charles was elected Senior Patrol Leader, and as such was responsible for his troop of over 80 Scouts. That same year Charles was awarded his Black Belt in Zen-Do-Kai Karate. At the age of seventeen Charles was a Karate Instructor and managed a Karate School which is what inspired in him a desire to operate his own business.
Charles has worked in the pool service industry sine 2002, starting as a lifeguard progressing to a position of general manager before deciding to start Bearfoot Management. Charles is currently a Certified Pool Operator through the National Swimming Pool Foundation and is a certified Lifeguard Instructor with the American Red Cross. Charles has created a business that is centered on positive attitudes, strong morals, and ethical practices.
Blake A. Harmer, Vice President
Blake Harmer is Vice President of Bearfoot Management. Among Blake's strongest attributes is his positive attitude, the appreciation of the value of a smile and an understanding of the meaning of excellent customer service. This quality always has a positive impact on the people he meets and interacts with in business and in life. It was these qualities that lead him to co-found Bearfoot Management in order to provide the community a safe and joyful swimming experience. Blake graduated from Dulles High School in May of 2006. While attending Dulles Blake was a key member of the DECA Club. In the fall of 2005 Blake won District and State Championships in business management. Blake honed his customer relations skills working in the retail environment with Apple Computers and Best Buy. Blake has been in the pool industry from the age of 16, starting as a lifeguard and working his way up to his partnership in Bearfoot Management. Through this experience Blake understands precisely what is required to be successful in the pool industry. Blake is also a Certified Pool Operator through the National Swimming Pool Foundation and is a Certified Lifeguard Instructor with the American Red Cross.
Chad D. Avery, Chief Financial Officer
Chad is the CFO of Bearfoot Management. He began his career as a CPA in 1996 after graduating form Texas A&M University - Texarkana. Prior to joining Bearfoot Management, he worked for 3 years in governmental accounting and over 11 years in public accounting. Throughout his career, Chad has helped many clients improve operations and maximize profitability. Chad attributes his career success to his hard work and ambition. Inspired by his mentors, he is committed to maintaining integrity and a strong work ethic to achieve his goals. Applying these values to his client service, Chad enjoys helping small, family-owned businesses grow into successful organizations. Chad grew up in the small town of New Boston, just west of Texarkana. He currently resides in Corinth, Texas with his wife and children. In his spare time, Chad enjoys spending quality time with his children, playing softball and golf, and participating in church activities.
