The fourth annual PCA Plumbing Service Conference, held from August 21st to 23rd in Annapolis, MD, proved to be a monumental gathering that brought together plumbing professionals, industry leaders, and visionaries. The event, which aimed to address critical industry challenges and foster collaboration, featured an array of insightful sessions and activities that left attendees both informed and inspired.
One of the conference’s standout highlights was the site visit to JPG Plumbing and Mechanical. Attendees had the opportunity to witness firsthand the inner workings of a successful plumbing service operation. This practical experience not only deepened participants’ understanding but also provided a platform for sharing real-world solutions to common industry challenges.
Speakers Brought Practical Industry Know-How to the Event
The conference’s speaker lineup boasted industry leaders who delved into topics from recruitment and retention strategies to enhancing office culture for improved employee retention rates. Alternative forms of business were also explored, with a focus on changing government legislation on water efficiency standards and how to incorporate these changes into your business model.
Thank you to our members who presented!
- John Geiling, President of JPG Plumbing
- Michael Wallenstein, Co-President of Neptune
- Tom Axtell, President of Lexington Plumbing
- Kevin Walsh, Executive Vice President of E.M. Duggan
- Adrienne Bennett, President and CEO of Benkari LLC
We also heard from Andrew Morris, Senior Manager of Policy and Programs at the Alliance for Water Efficiency, and Leadership Speaker Steve Thomas.
Sponsors Contributed to the Event’s Success
We would also like to thank this year’s sponsors:
- Zurn Elkay Water Solutions
- Bradford White
- MILWAUKEE TOOL
- WINT Water Intelligence
These companies provided funding and sponsored events that contributed to the event’s success.
UA Guests Offered Added Insights
We also benefited from being right across from the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA) headquarters. We were pleased to welcome General President Mark McManus who delivered an impactful address that emphasized the UA’s commitment to fostering growth and excellence within plumbing service. Ray Boyd, UA Director of Education, and Tom Bigley, UA Director of Plumbing, discussed the current efforts to update plumbing service education, and heard requests from audience members. Brian Kelly, UA Director of HVAC Services, and Russ Borst, VP of Service at Hurst Mechanical, shared a presentation on the National Service and Maintenance Agreement and how it can apply to plumbing service.
We Look Forward to Seeing You Next Time
We look forward to seeing you at the next PCA Plumbing Service Conference. Watch for details on mcaa.org and in the National Update e-newsletter as the conference gets closer.
