The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) of Texas has announced the hiring of Sarah Rayburn as its new executive director. Rayburn will replace current Executive Director Alicia Dover, who is retiring effective March 31.

Rayburn joins PHCC with a wealth of experience in various operational and leadership positions for nonprofit organizations. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from The University of Texas at Austin and her master’s in public administration from The Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration at George Washington University. Rayburn has served in consulting capacities for a number of organizations and enjoys spending her free time volunteering with youth organizations across Austin.

Dover will continue to advise PHCC in a legislative consultant capacity as it prepares for the 2021 session, when its top legislative priority will be maintaining statewide licensure of plumbers in Texas. In 2019, the State Board of Plumbing Examiners was “sunsetted” when it was not renewed during the 86th Texas legislative session. This would have left the industry without oversight, putting public health and safety at risk. However, Gov. Greg Abbott extended the board by executive order until its status can be addressed during the state’s 87th legislative session in 2021.

“I am honored to have been selected to lead an organization as well-respected and trusted as PHCC,” said Rayburn. “Plumbers play a vital role in the lives of all Texans, and they are an instrumental player in our state’s growing economy. The importance of statewide licensure for these professionals cannot be overstated, and I look forward to supporting the organization and its members as we work to ensure that appropriate licensing and oversight of the plumbing industry remains in place.”