Education

Hector Mardueño 

Hector is a driving force in the koi and aquatics industry. As the owner of W. Lim Corporation and Stonewall Creek, he has set the standard for innovation and excellence in pond filtration and natural pool construction. Creator of The All-American Koi Show, Hector has redefined the industry by uniting breeders, dealers, builders, hobbyists, and all enthusiasts to elevate and expand the koi community in America. His leadership and vision continue to shape the future of koi, filtration, and the pond building world.

Ed Beaulieu

Ed came to Aquascape in 1993 as a construction laborer, but a little creativity and a positive outlook on life and business helped catapult Ed to the position of Vice President of Field Research and Contractor Development. For more than a decade, Ed has successfully built thousands of custom-designed ponds from small backyard water gardens to large lakes and commercial water features. He holds a B.S. in Zoology, with an emphasis in Limnology, and concentrated his master’s studies in Marine Biology.

Ed’s work has been featured on the cover of Architectural Digest, in addition to having his water garden designs featured in the pages of Better Homes & Gardens special interest publications, Nature’s Garden, Irrigation and Green Industry News, and more.

For five years, Ed served as project manager for the installation of water features at the Flower and Garden Festival “Water Garden Wonders” highlight at Epcot Center. Ed has worked with Certified Aquascape Contractors on water feature installations for Shaquille O’Neal, Richard Petty, Jill Rappaport, and other celebrities, and has appeared on several HGTV and DIY channel shows. He was also a contributing author for The Pond Builder’s Bible, Pond Building for Hobbyists, and Succeeding and Prospering with Water Features II.

In recent years, Ed has designed and served as project manager for Aquascape Rainwater Harvesting Systems in Ghana, Uganda, and Colombia. In 2013 he was the first pond designer and installer to receive the “Watershaper of the Year” award from Irrigation and Green Industry News.

Dr. Esteban Soto, MSc, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVM, DABVP (Fish Practice), CertAqV

Dr. Esteban Soto received his veterinary degree from Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica in 2005.  He earned his Master’s degree in Veterinary Medical Science (Aquatic Pathobiology) from the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2007, and a PhD in Pathobiological Sciences from the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2010.  After completion of his PhD, Dr. Soto joined the Ross University-School of Veterinary Medicine as an Assistant, then Associate Professor of Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology from 2010-2015.  In 2015 he joined the Department of Medicine and Epidemiology at the University of California – Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, were he currently works as a Professor of Aquatic Animal Health.  Dr. Soto is board certified by the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists with subspecialties in Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology and Veterinary Immunology.  Additionally, he is also board certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in Fish Practice. His main research interests are the pathogenesis of important infectious diseases of wild and aquatic animals and the development of best management strategies for prevention and treatment of these diseases.

Eric Triplett 

is widely recognized for his bold, passionate approach to teaching and coaching within the contractor community. His straightforward style and ability to connect with audiences make him a highly sought-after speaker and mentor.

Eric Triplett is the founder of Train With Triplett (TWT), a coaching program designed to help contractors take charge of their businesses, increase profitability, and achieve a healthy work-life balance. With over two decades of experience guiding contractors through both challenges and victories, Eric created TWT to equip contractors with proven strategies for success.

What sets Triplett apart is his unwavering authenticity and transparency. He candidly shares his own journey—failures and wins alike—to help others bypass the pitfalls he faced. This real-world approach has earned him a devoted following and lasting influence in the industry.

Through his popular YouTube channel, including the “Ask The Pond Digger” series, Triplett has reached millions, offering practical “How To” tutorials for designing, building, and maintaining ponds. His dedication to educating and empowering others earned him the Silver Creator Award in 2019 and an induction into the Green Industry Hall of Fame in 2015.

Eric’s passion for growth and excellence is evident in the continued success of his award-winning construction company. His mission is clear: to provide contractors with the tools, wisdom, and community support they need to thrive.

Kyle Weemhoff

Kyle Weemhoff is the Southwest Regional Sales Manager for Atlantic-Oase, who’s been in the role since 2016. He has worked with contractors across the country in assisting with projects from small fountains to large robust koi ponds that integrate Oase filtration systems. He is proud koi owner that can speak with firsthand experience using filtration systems.

Yvo De Wal 

Yvo de Wal is a renowned expert in the world of koi fish and the founder of The Koi Partner, a respected platform dedicated to providing high-quality koi fish and education to enthusiasts worldwide. Based in the Netherlands, Yvo combines a deep passion for Japanese koi culture with years of experience in sourcing, caring for, and showcasing these beautiful fish. His expertise spans koi selection, pond management, and fostering appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of Japanese breeders. Through his engaging content and professional services, Yvo has built a global community of koi aficionados who trust his guidance in achieving their dream koi collections.

Sean Bell 

Sean Bell is the Eastern Regional Sales Manager for Atlantic-Oase. A true Fish Geek and water feature professional, he has spent the last 20 years training, educating, and supporting contractors, distributors, and retailers in the green industry.  Assisting the growth of those in the industry is his focus and passion. Prior to this Sean managed one of the largest aquarium stores in the Southeast that specialized in fish from all around the globe, Imported Japanese Koi were part of the mix as well as running his own pond service company.

Shigeyoshi, Tanaka

Shigeyoshi Tanaka, hails from Marujyu Koi Farm, renowned for its legendary Showa bloodlines and pivotal role in stabilizing the Tancho bloodline. The farms famous grand champion B Tancho showa, crowned at 2018 All-Japan Koi Show, stands as a testament to their breeding excellence. Marujyu Koi Farm focuses on breeding Gosanke, Koromo, and Tancho varieties.

Shigeyoshi san is the eldest of three brothers who operate Marujyu Koi Farm. His judging accolades include Asia cup, AJKS, AJYKS, All China, All Indonesia, All Thai, All Philippines, as well as many other European Koi Shows. He is dedicated to educating hobbyist about koi, selecting and developing tategoi.

Ryuichi, Yoshida 

Yoshida san is the president of the two hundred years old company JPD(Japan Pet Design). He is dedicated to producing koi food for farms and hobbyist ponds and provide the best nutrition to grow and make koi beautiful. Over the last 7 years he has probably attend more koi shows than any single individual around the world. A true koi kichi and koi lover, Yoshida san has judged shows both abroad as well as many local Japanese koi shows.

Shane Hemphill 

Since a young age, Shane has harbored a deep fascination for koi fish. His expertise in the species has significantly enhanced his water feature business, elevating it to new heights for his clients. In 2024, Shane clinched the top spot in the Best in Size #1 category at the All American Koi Show, a testament to his profound understanding as he can proudly identify every type of koi.

Greg Wittstock 

Greg Wittstock, The Pond Guy, is the owner and CEO of Aquascape, Inc. He has been dabbling in water gardens since the age of 12 and has a love of everything water and turtles. After experimenting with ponds for over eight years, Greg had a “light bulb” moment during a drive home from the boring summer job he took during college in 1990. He decided that he wanted to do something he loved for a living – he wanted to build ponds. Just 30 seconds later, he had a company name, Aquascape. The next year, he began building ponds during his breaks in the school year. From there he created the Aquascape, Inc. business model, which includes a mix of distribution, retail, and installation services. Greg is a sought-after speaker on topics ranging from water gardening to business success and strategy. He authored The Pond Guy on Marketing and has appeared on the cover of Inc. Magazine. You may have also seen him on Nat Geo Wild’s “Pond Stars” series.

When Greg is not working, he enjoys scuba diving and exploring remote parts of the world. Greg has a love of life and adventure; his motto is “Carpe Diem.”

Follow Greg on his YouTube channel as he meets incredible people, views beautiful water features, and shares what it means to truly love and be Living the Aquascape Lifestyle