In 2019, PHCPPros launched the “Millennials On The Move” honorary listing in Plumbing Engineer, PHC News and The Wholesaler magazines. The listing was created to shed light on what is now the largest generation in the workforce, while also launching bigger conversations on topics such as industry recruiting, talent retention, leadership development and more. Now, we're expanding that conversation outside of the annual print listing with our monthly “Millennials On The Move” newsletter.

In our December 2021 spotlight, we introduce you to Aaron Stotko, director of segment marketing for Uponor!

PHCPPros: What is your current professional role?

Stotko: I am currently the director of segment marketing. My team is responsible for working cross functionally to be the champion for our customers. We have a customer-first mindset at Uponor to make sure we’re putting their needs first.

PHCPPros: How did you get into the PHCP industry?

Stotko: I grew up in the construction industry. My father worked for a medium-sized general contractor before starting his own company. He would take me to projects throughout my childhood, and later, when I was in college, I spent a couple of summers working for his company. During college, when I was studying to become a mechanical engineer, I was focused on becoming an automotive engineer in the racing industry. I was not exposed to the mechanical space until I took an internship in 2008 with the largest mechanical contractor in the area. During that internship, we were working on a large arena project and implementing a BIM workflow with coordination. This project opened my eyes to the mechanical world. It was an experience that would change the course of my career. I graduated in December 2009, which was challenging for college graduates looking for work. So, I decided to take another paid internship — this time at Uponor, where I held several positions prior to my current role.

PHCPPros: What have been some of your career highlights so far?

Stotko: The people. This industry is full of some of the best people. And, at Uponor, working for an organization that believes in its people and fosters a culture where everyone feels valued is a continual highlight I appreciate every day.

PHCPPros: Are you affiliated with groups and organizations in the PHCP industry?

Stotko: I am affiliated with ASHRAE and IAPMO. I have done some work with the Hydronic Industry Alliance – Commercial (HIA-C), which is dedicated to the health, safety, sustainability, and efficiency of buildings through the use of water-based heating and cooling systems. After all, water has always been and will always be the best refrigerant. I am also the current chapter president of the Minnesota chapter of ASHRAE. For those of you reading this that are not involved with any groups or organizations in the PHCP industry, I would encourage you to get involved. This industry is going to continue to evolve, and it needs people to step into roles to continue our forward momentum. These are also great places to build relationships and hear other points of view that can give you a different perspective.

PHCPPros: Do you have any mentors in the PHCP industry or otherwise?

Stotko: I have been very lucky here. There have been many people instrumental in my development who have kept me pointed at my North Star. Some of the people I’m most grateful to include are Jeff Wiedemann, Mark Hudoba, Robert Bean, Bill Gray, Ingrid Mattsson, and Scott Gose. There are many more, so please accept my apology for those of you I inadvertently left out.

PHCPPros: Do you consider yourself a mentor?

Stotko: This is a question that can be left for others to answer. I always try to do my best work, not take shortcuts, drive for results, and collaborate. I also try to give feedback where it makes sense and make sure that we’re enjoying ourselves as we get our work done. I hope that other people enjoy that about me.

PHCPPros: What does it mean for you to be featured as a PHCP Millennial On The Move?

Stotko: Any time there’s a recognition opportunity like this, it’s worth a thoughtful pause. I’m grateful. That’s the word I would use to summarize what this means to me. As I’ve grown, I’ve come to realize that I don’t have any individual accomplishments. There are many people responsible for this recognition, so I’m truly grateful for their support.

Do you know someone you would like to nominate as a PHCP Millennial On The Move? Email PHCPPros Digital Strategy Manager Nicole Meyer at nicole@phcppros.com!