As President of StarGuard ELITE, Wess oversees all aspects of the company aquatic safety and risk prevention operations including product development, client service programs, business development, project consulting, strategic partnerships, and representing SGE in numerous industry organizations. Prior to joining SGE in 2013, Wess worked throughout the aquatics industry with leadership positions at various levels for many of the world's top resorts and waterparks including Atlantis the Palm Dubai, Walt Disney World, and Palace Entertainment. Wess has worked as both an operator and a consultant for projects of every size providing support for initial concept, construction, operational development, safety consulting, staff training, and regulatory compliance. 

 

Wess speaks at industry conferences and trainings around the world and is active within numerous other industry organizations. Wess received the World Waterpark Association's Kelly Ogle Memorial Safety Award in 2020 and received Aquatic International's Power Award in 2021. Additionally, Wess serves on various industry boards and committees including: World Waterpark Association Board of Directors (2022-current), CMAHC Lifeguarding & Bather Surveillance Committee, NDPA Advisory Council , Surf Park Central's Safety, Risk, and Insurance Committee Co-Chair, WWA Safety Committee (2014-2022, Committee Chair from 2019-2022), US National Water Safety Action Plan Lifeguard & Surveillance Committee, and ASTM F24.70 Member.