Tynette and Devon Millington wanted to enroll their children in swim lessons but couldn’t find a suitable program that matched all their needs. So, they decided to launch a Silver Bear Swim School franchise in their hometown of Lehi, Utah. By Jessica Petrucelli
FRANCHISEES OF THE MONTH
Tynette and Devon Millington wanted to enroll their children in swim lessons but couldn’t find a suitable program that matched all their needs. So, they decided to launch a Silver Bear Swim School franchise in their hometown of Lehi, Utah.
“When we couldn’t find the right program, we decided to create it ourselves,” Tynette noted.
The Millingtons, who officially opened their business in 2022, were the first franchise holders for Silver Bear, an instructional swim school that teaches young children to love the water. But Devon was no stranger to the company’s concept and structure.
“He worked for Silver Bear while attending college in Reno,” Tynette said of the Nevada-based business, which uses a nationally recognized program that has proven successful for tens of thousands of children around the country.
“Devon loved it so much; it was his favorite job. When we saw the need for one in our own community, he reached out to Tim and Katie,” she added. (As in Tim and Katie Hall, who founded Silver Bear in 2006.)
“Katie was a collegiate swimmer, and Tim is an Ironman athlete,” Tynette said. “Together, they created this incredible, very hands-on swim curriculum for all stages and ages.”
For Tynette and Devon, who both had corporate careers, the business model was the perfect fit.
“It was the right time to launch our own business,” Tynette said. “Lehi is one of the fastest-growing communities in Utah, so it just made sense for us and for Silver Bear.”
And Tynette says their time as business owners has been a completely rewarding experience.
“The best part of this whole experience is being able to bring such a high-quality product into the community,” Tynette said. “It’s been truly fulfilling to offer a valuable experience to the families of Lehi.”
Plus, Tynette and Devon can bring their three young boys to work with them, stressing the importance of this family-focused endeavor.
“We finally found the swim lessons we wanted,” Tynette concluded. “Starting a successful business has been a wonderful bonus.”
Jessica Petrucelli