WWJ Closeup, October 2025

PAUL SHUFORD
Senior Trainer
DAB Pumps Inc.
Charleston, South Carolina

FAVORITE PART OF CONDUCTING TRAINING?
My favorite part of conducting training is witnessing those “lightbulb moments” when participants grasp concepts they hadn’t understood before. When you see things click and everything starts to make sense, it’s incredibly satisfying. It feels rewarding to know you’re adding value to their lives and professions.

HOW HAS DAB’S ESYBOX LINE (WATER PRESSURE BOOSTER SYSTEM) MADE AN IMPACT IN THE INDUSTRY?
DAB’s EsyBox line has revolutionized pressure boosting technology. By offering a single unit that can replace the pump, control systems, and many other components of a pressure boosting system, it has made installers’ jobs much easier. Once an installer becomes familiar with one model, they can effortlessly install any of the others.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE OF THE PUMP INDUSTRY LOOK LIKE WITH INVERTER TECHNOLOGY?
The transition is underway, with most pumping systems incorporating inverter technology and variable speed drives, but it goes beyond pairing standard pumps with inverters. We’ll see pumps and inverters designed together to maximize their combined benefits that will lead to greater energy savings, quieter operation, better performance from smaller motors, and lower system costs.

YOUR THOUGHTS ON PUMPS CONTROLLED REMOTELY VIA AN APP CONTINUING TO INCREASE IN THE COMING YEARS?
Connectivity has been one of the most significant advancements in the water pump industry in recent years. You can not only adjust pump settings remotely, but also access data that helps you, your installer, or the manufacturer troubleshoot issues. The benefits of this technology are clear.

HOW HAVE PUMP INSTALLER QUESTIONS CHANGED DURING YOUR CAREER?
They’re more focused on learning about new technologies. The challenge is preserving the existing knowledge and wisdom that is still relevant while finding ways for new technology to address ongoing issues. Understanding fundamental principles behind water systems is essential for achieving both—and that’s what we aim to accomplish as trainers.

WITH DAB PUMPS CELEBRATING ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR, WHAT DOES ITS FUTURE LOOK LIKE?
Celebrating our 50th anniversary is a major milestone that reflects DAB’s ongoing commitment to innovation, quality, and reliability in water technology. Over the years, we’ve introduced disruptive pump technologies that have changed how people think about performance and efficiency. Looking ahead, that same spirit of innovation will keep pushing us forward.