Every Goldfish Swim School starts long before the first splash. It begins with a blank space, a vision, and a team of people who know how to bring that vision to life. At the center of that process is Tom Bohland, Goldfish Swim School’s Director of Construction, who has been helping franchisees build their dream schools since 2018.

From Builder to Brand Champion

Tom’s path to Goldfish wasn’t a straight line. With years of experience running his own construction company and working on both the franchisee and developer sides, he understood the challenges business owners face when bringing a project to life. A friend who served on Goldfish’s Brand Advisory Board suggested he explore the brand — and after meeting Co-Founders Chris and Jenny McCuiston and President Andrew McCuiston, Tom immediately felt connected to their mission.

“I was drawn to their passion for helping kids and keeping them safer in and around water,” Tom says. “I knew this was a company I wanted to be part of.”

Seven years later, he’s helped guide dozens of franchisees through one of the most exciting — and sometimes daunting — parts of their journey: turning an empty space into a tropical oasis: Goldfish Swim School.

A Culture that Builds from Within

What stands out most to Tom about Goldfish is the culture — one built on values, passion, and genuine teamwork. From the top down, every person on the team is committed to supporting franchisees and each other.

“The collaboration here is something special,” Tom shares. “When challenges come up, everyone steps in to find solutions. It feels like a true family.”

That sense of shared purpose carries through to the Construction team’s partnerships with Goldfish franchisees. Whether it’s a first-time business owner or an experienced developer, Tom and his team make sure each franchisee feels supported from the first blueprint to the final walk-through.

Guiding Franchisees through the Build Process

The design and construction phase is one of the largest investments a franchisee will make — financially and emotionally. Tom and his team have refined a proven process that helps owners navigate each step confidently.

“Every project teaches us something new,” he explains. “We’re constantly learning, visiting schools, and finding ways to make the next one even better.”

That focus on continuous improvement keeps Goldfish ahead of the curve — and ensures every new school meets the high standards families have come to expect.

The Most Rewarding Part

For Tom, nothing compares to walking into a finished Goldfish Swim School and seeing the impact firsthand. “Watching kids race into the building, excited for swim lessons, never gets old,” he says. “You can feel the difference these schools make in their communities.”

Known for his early mornings and hands-on approach, Tom is often the first one in the office — or already on the road visiting schools. He’s been to nearly every one of the 200+ Goldfish locations across the country, making sure each one reflects the brand’s commitment to safety, quality, and family fun.

“It’s incredibly rewarding work,” he says. “We’re not just building swim schools — we’re helping families create lifelong memories.”