The road from “shecession” to “shecovery” has been a rocky one. For those who may need a refresher from our last Women In PHCP feature, the term “shecession” describes a period of economic decline that predominantly affects women. The most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that 249,000 women joined the labor force in March 2022. According to the National Women’s Law Center, even with this recent progress, women are still down more than 1.1 million net jobs since February 2020 — comprising a whopping 70 percent of total job losses.

“We’re heading in the right direction, even if women have a long way to go before fully recovering from the pandemic,” NWLC Director of Research Jasmine Tucker told CNBC Make It last April. 

A March 2022 survey by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research may hold some key insights regarding how the country can continue heading in the “right direction.” Findings show “there is a gap between the benefits women desire … and what they currently receive from employers.” Women reported solid pay, health insurance, job security, retirement benefits and paid leave among their top considerations as they re-enter the workforce following the pandemic. 

Making strides with room for improvement

So, when taking a look at our industry specifically, what other improvements can be made for women? 

Narrowing down our focus to women in the trades, according to March 2022 data from IWPR, the number of women working in trades occupations reached a new high at just over 314,000 in 2021. This means during the last five years, the number of tradeswomen has increased by 32 percent.  

Despite this progress, as part of the largest national survey of tradeswomen ever conducted, in 2021 the same organization found that more than 40 percent of women working in the construction trades have seriously considered leaving their jobs, with “discrimination, harassment, and being held to a different standard than their male counterparts [named as] the main [factors] pushing women out.”

In addition to eliminating harassment and discrimination, the survey suggests that the industry should offer more effective oversight of apprenticeship programs, promote more women to leadership positions and make the trades more family friendly. 

We aim to supplement some of this past year’s findings by learning first-hand why women in various fields enjoy being a part of the PHCP community, as well as how they believe the industry can continue to improve and diversify. Join us as we celebrate and converse with our 2022 Women In PHCP honorees — 13 inspiring individuals who are all making their mark in different ways! 

Christen Allen
Director of National Accounts and Showrooms, Elkay

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

Although my family was in construction and my father worked for a plumbing wholesaler, I had never entertained the idea of a career in the industry. But after some research, it was apparent that it was full of opportunities. While not always perceived as “glamorous,” the industry is critical to our infrastructure, and that provided me a sense of purpose. 

What are some of your career highlights?  

Seven years into my career I was offered an opportunity to manage a new wholesale showroom, which happened to be during the 2007 recession. It was professionally and personally one of the hardest jobs I have held, yet also the most rewarding. 

I was also selected to participate in Elkay’s High Potential Leadership program, preparing me to confidently accept the opportunities and risks that new leadership roles could present.

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

I am incredibly fortunate to continue to be supported by many outstanding women inside and outside of my organization, and it is my privilege and responsibility to do the same for others to pay that support forward. I also have a young daughter, and like many other working mothers, I often struggle with balancing work and family. I am able to show my daughter firsthand that while family comes first, you can still have a fulfilling career and love what you do. 

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

Attracting and retaining talented women should be supported at all levels of an organization. Communicate your commitment to a more diverse workplace to prospective employees; listen to and act on the changing priorities and needs of women today. Create strong career development plans and offer opportunities for personal growth.

What does it mean to receive this honor?

I am humbled to receive this honor. I am extremely grateful to have had a strong group of women who have led by example and given me the confidence to achieve what I have over the past 20 years.  

Adrienne Bennett
Owner/President/CEO/Master Plumber/Plumbing Contractor, Benkari LLC Plumbing, Water Quality & Conservation

 What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

Benkari LLC is a Detroit-based, union and second-generation family-owned business; it is the legacy I’m leaving. As a pioneer in our industry, I am obligated to set the best example for the advancement of future generations.  

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

I was attending a Jimmy Carter “Get Out to Vote” rally. Gus Dowell, an MCA Detroit recruiter, asked me, “You want to make $50,000 a year?” I asked, “Is it legal?” He said, “Yes,” referring to being a plumber. He then said, “I need a woman to get something done.” 

What are some of your career highlights?  

I am the first female graduate from the UA Plumbing Apprenticeship; the first African-American female to achieve each of the following licenses in North America — Journeyman Plumber, Plumbing Contractor, and Master Plumber; the first woman to achieve each of the following licenses in North America — Drain Layer and Plumbing Inspector; and the first certified-female Medical Gas Inspector and Installer in North America. An ongoing highlight is serving the public and protecting one of the world’s greatest resources: water.

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

I consider the following individuals as mentors: My best friend, Dynalda Owens, licensed builder; Beverly Hannah-Jones, architect; Laura Kopack, attorney; Sharon Madison, owner of Madison Madison International; and Barb Strachan, AGC of Michigan director of workforce development. I mentor women inside and outside of the industry as well.

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

We need more women in the right positions to make change. With women in leadership roles, doors will be opened, laws will be passed, and equal pay and benefits will come.

What does it mean to receive this honor?

I am humbled and honored to be a part of the PHCP community and among so many phenomenal women to receive this honor. It is a privilege to be recognized in this male-dominated industry for your hard work and dedication. 

Randi Breach
Area Sales Manager — West, Zurn Water Solutions

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

My first job was at Home Depot, and I really enjoyed the atmosphere and products. As I progressed through my career, I always wanted to get back into construction, and I had an opportunity a decade ago to return. Now, I have worked for two different plumbing product manufacturers for the last decade. This industry is fulfilling because no two days are the same.

What are some of your career highlights?  

One highlight is providing material for many applications on large projects on the West Coast, such as Loma Linda Hospital and Clippers Stadium. I also enjoy helping people on my team reach career goals of their own through promotion. I have received several sales awards — but it is the teamwork that fuels my ambition.

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

I have many female peers. We mentor each other within our strengths and fill in gaps where we might have an opportunity. My personal mentor is in the construction industry; he directly mentors many women in our industry. 

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

Recruiting efforts can be as simple as highlighting women who enjoy the industry. Retention can be as easy as having a robust benefit package that includes what some women desire, such as maternity leave. Extensive training in product and applications would really assist in retention as well.

What does it mean to receive this honor?

This honor means quite a bit to me because I’d like to continue to represent Zurn well and help our organization succeed. I want to help inspire other women to join and stay in our wonderful industry.  

Katie Callender, PE
Client Executive | Principal, IMEG Corp.

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I am currently managing an office in Reno, Nevada, which is inclusive of mechanical, plumbing, electrical and low voltage consulting services. I lead the mechanical department, facilitating design work and quality control.

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

I fell into this industry upon leaving college. I soon found it extremely rewarding. The diverse nature of projects, and ongoing technological and code advancements, provides for continual challenges and learning. 

What are some of your career highlights?  

I have been fortunate enough to travel across the country providing for mechanical, plumbing and electrical utility site observations, as well as the follow-up mechanical design through these diverse locale conditions. I have had the opportunity to design for a wide range of building types, from custom residences and medical facilities to high-rise hotel towers. I have truly enjoyed each step of my career.

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

My mother has always been an intelligent and reliable role model, having led a full career in nursing, teaching and management. I had not been aware of other women within this industry upon beginning this career. There have since been few women who have joined offices where I've worked, and I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to train them in mechanical design.

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

This is not an industry that is widely spoken about in schools. I believe increasing awareness of the industry is the first step.

What does it mean to receive this honor?

I am appreciative to be recognized for the work that I do. I am also grateful to be a small part of highlighting women in this field for any future prospective young woman wondering if this industry is right for her.   

Alicia Criniti
SVP of Marketing, The Granite Group

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I am responsible for marketing across The Granite Group, and I lead the retail bath store business with a great team.

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

In 2010, I went from many years of marketing financial services to marketing the wholesale distribution of plumbing, heating and cooling supplies. I was attracted to the underdeveloped marketing capabilities of the company I joined at that time. I was also attracted to the tangible nature of the distribution business vs. that from which I came. What I quickly came to learn is that the business is full of wonderful, hard-working people. 

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

This question makes me smile because it makes me think of Meredith Verdone, how much I learned from her, and how much I enjoyed working for her. She was my manager early on when I worked for a Boston advertising agency. She set a high bar for the work, and she was fair in all her dealings. I’ll always be grateful for the opportunities she gave me and the example she set as a woman in the workplace. 

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

Recruiting and retaining women starts with valuing a diverse workplace, which, of course, goes beyond gender. Employers can start by examining their job descriptions, making sure they are appealing to women. Strive to hire more women into the PHCP industry vs. recruiting women who are already here. Women working within the industry can also help expose other women to the great things happening here by talking about the enjoyment we find in our careers.

What does it mean to receive this honor?

I am flattered others recognize my contributions. Being honest, however, I am also uncomfortable with the recognition. Like many women, I’m most comfortable simply going about my business.

Kaitlyn Isola
Marketing Director, IMARK Plumbing

What is your role in the PHCP industry?

I feel very fortunate to be a part of the IMARK/LPG family! It is an absolute joy to be working in an industry I have such passion for, and to be doing so as a member of an organization made up of true visionaries.

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

As a young professional with expertise in business development and communications, I felt compelled to contribute my skill set to an industry that my family knew well. Having spent more than half my professional life working in plumbing distribution, I have seen and lived through the consolidation of many independently owned entities. My goal is to share the new-age marketing skills and automated tools needed to support our existing independently owned distributors so they can continue to thrive.

What are some of your career highlights?  

One highlight is mapping, organizing and implementing the appropriate inventory management software and tools needed to efficiently run my previous distributor’s warehouse. This was a major step toward automating and cleaning up that business. 

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women? 

I am extremely fortunate to have one of the most well-respected and knowledgeable female mentors in our industry, Francesca Messina. Since working with Francesca, I have grown as a professional and as an overall marketer. She has taught me to elevate my way of thinking, push through the constraints presented to me and advocate for my professional beliefs.

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

Lead by example! Continue to share empowering stories of strong women making a difference in our industry who are breaking societal and industry-wide norms.  

What does it mean to receive this honor?

In an industry full of such powerful and intelligent women, I feel truly honored to have been recognized. In receiving this award, I hope to expand my network base and further my involvement in our industry. 

Jennifer Ma, PE, CPD
Mechanical Engineer, SmithGroup

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

As a mechanical engineer specializing in the design of HVAC and plumbing building systems, I calculate, model and design heating, cooling, and water systems that ensure buildings operate comfortably and efficiently. I collaborate with others to create beautiful and functional spaces for owners and users.

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

Growing up, my favorite subjects in school were always math and science. Engineering was the perfect major for me in college. It was there that I was really drawn to the design aspect, where I could draw and model something and then build it in real life. My uncle works in the construction industry, which also provided me with an internship opportunity. 

What are some of your career highlights?  

The design phase of projects can take months, if not years, with the process of decision-making and approvals. As an engineer and designer, it is extremely fulfilling to see a project built-out and walk through a building with my designs in place.

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

I have been lucky to work at firms with strong female engineers, managers, and leaders to learn from. Ranging from technical training to building client relationships and managing projects, I am fortunate Shannon Allison and Nicki Sparks have guided me.

I have also had the opportunity to mentor young women in the industry. It was important for me to receive guidance from fellow women when I started, and I am grateful to be able to provide that to others.

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

Continuing to note the presence and distinct roles of women in the HVAC and plumbing industry goes a long way in encouraging other women to join. 

What does it mean to receive this honor?

I am flattered. It is inspiring to see that in my time in the workplace, I have had the opportunity to be among so many who are breaking barriers.

Gabby Murrow
Brand Marketing Manager, Gerber Plumbing Fixtures

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I work to ensure strong brand integrity by guiding marketing efforts across all sales channels and functions both inside and outside of the company. My responsibilities include executing communications, initiatives, and projects to support overall business objectives while adequately targeting specific audiences with consistent, strategic messaging and visual identity. 

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

I was previously working in a corporate setting for a diversified global industrial manufacturer. I had always wanted to switch gears to something a bit more “relatable” that had a component of both B2B and B2C. When the opportunity presented itself to work for Gerber, it felt like the right fit for many reasons.

What are some of your career highlights?  

Over the last two-and-a-half years, I, along with many of my wonderful colleagues, have helped Gerber through the integration of bringing our previous sister brand, Danze by Gerber, under the Gerber umbrella. While very challenging and time consuming, I wouldn’t trade the knowledge I gained during this experience for anything. 

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

I am always striving to do and be better for both myself and Gerber, so soaking in knowledge from all the intelligent women around me is important to me. The VP of marketing for Gerber has made amazing strides in her career while being a mother. The wisdom of striving for that balance is something I admire and lean on often.

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

Honestly, pieces like this are so valuable. Shining a light on women in various fields can provide confidence for a woman not totally sold on starting a career in this industry, while encouraging her that she belongs and will be in good company. 

What does it mean to receive this honor?

This honor is truly humbling for me. It has sent me into a mode of gratitude and reflection on what I can do next! 

Meagan Owen
Vice President – Organizational Effectiveness, Eastern Industrial Supplies

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I've worked in the PVF and plumbing wholesale distribution industry for more than half of my life. Today, my role is to essentially find ways to make Eastern Industrial Supplies better and as efficient as possible. 

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

My parents acquired Eastern in 1986 when I was only 2 years old, so I grew up in this industry. I didn’t initially find the business attractive because I am more of a creative, and selling pipe, valves, and fittings wasn’t very striking. Today, I can’t imagine working without my family, as we have been so blessed by the work and people around us.

What are some of your career highlights?  

From middle school through college, I went from shredding paper at Eastern to providing administrative assistance and helping out at a local branch. After graduating in 2007, I started full time as a sales trainee. I moved up through the ranks to branch manager while having multiple children. I completed my MBA in 2012, and in 2015, I took a new path as the director of marketing, building a department that hadn’t formerly existed. In 2019, I was promoted to my current role.

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

The first mentor who comes to my mind is my mother, because she’s always been there for me both personally and professionally. Additionally, I work with a female business coach who pushes me to the limit while being my biggest supporter. I am also on the American Supply Association’s Women in Industry Council. Finding a network of women that you can relate to in this industry is key.

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

Find ways to make the job seem more attractive. Sometimes it seems like a man’s industry, but when a woman is able to see how she can make an impact, she will be much more motivated to work in PHCP. 

What does it mean to receive this honor?

It is the best feeling. It means that someone sees me, and that I’m not just my parents’ daughter who is working in the business. Being my own person has always been important to me.

Amy Rainer
Business Unit Product Manager - HVAC, Franklin Electric

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

My primary responsibilities at Franklin Electric include new product development and product improvement. This activity always begins with extensive market research and a focus on the needs of the customer. 

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

My career at Franklin Electric began with Little Giant. I was working through college at the time, but the support of the people within the organization and the industry captivated me. This early exposure to wastewater and HVAC water pumping formed the basis for the rest of my career. 

What are some of your career highlights?  

I get to work with and promote a product I believe in. I'm helping build on the Little Giant brand as the needs of the industry evolve. I get to learn on a daily basis and do what I love! 

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

My first influence, my mother, is one of the hardest working women I know. Within the industry, my most significant female mentor was my first manager. The knowledge she shared and the support she consistently demonstrated are an integral part of my career to this day.   

Franklin Electric is a large organization with a diverse employee base including many talented, driven women. We celebrate successes with each other and demonstrate the power women bring to the industry every day.

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

I have seen a lot of changes over my 20 years in the industry, one of the most significant being the number of women within it. Spotlights of women in the industry like this are excellent indications of these changes. I have always felt supported; it's part of why I stayed committed to the industry.   

What does it mean to receive this honor?

It is quite an honor to be considered deserving of this recognition by my peers. I hope that it encourages other women to push forward and continue to pursue any career goals they find fulfilling. I also hope my daughter understands her potential is unlimited and is encouraged to pursue great things.

Lorelei Tucker
Service Manager, Controlled Environment Inc.

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I do installation, service and repairs on residential and small commercial HVAC systems. I am also a master gasfitter. I design-build all of the duct work for new construction, residential and commercial HVAC systems.

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

It was by accident: I needed a summer job after graduating from college with a bachelor’s degree in marine biology. That was 18 years ago. I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up, but I am having a blast at HVAC.

What are some of your career highlights?  

A highlight is the first time I ever replaced a heat exchanger in a furnace. It was a GMP furnace, and I had to open the box to see what a heat exchanger was. I had number stickers on every part of that unit. When I was done, it looked like a paint-by-numbers project. But, when I put it all back together and it fired off, I knew this was going to be more than a summer job. 

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

I am lucky to have a supportive mom. At a young age, she instilled in me a great work ethic and a “you can do anything” attitude. Unfortunately, I do not mentor any women, as there are not many in the HVAC industry. However, I like to think that I have mentored many young men who have changed their minds about women in this industry after working with me.

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

If vocations would speak to high school students more about blue collar careers, I feel it would spark interest in both male and female students. This is one of the few industries that I know of where there is no pay gap. 

What does it mean to receive this honor?

I think that it is great to honor women in the industry. Hopefully, a young lady will read more articles like this and realize the only thing that holds anyone back is oneself.

Elsa Valentine
Account Manager, F.W. Webb Co.

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I specialize in outside sales of residential hydronics and HVAC. My role is to develop and maintain new business for F.W. Webb. My expertise? People. I get to know everyone – the person who answers the phone, the worker who throws away garbage, the service manager, etc. Everybody has a role, and each is valuable and plays a part in the businesses that I'm selling to!

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

In 2008 during the recession, I lost my job as a buyer in the retail industry. In desperation, I applied for a purchasing assistant role at a local HVAC company. After my interview, the president called me and said that he actually thought I should be in sales. I will never forget his words: “You have no experience, and I am going to lose money on you, but I believe in you.” Six months later, he was profiting on me! Thanks to him, I found my niche.

What are some of your career highlights?  

The company that first hired me in this industry decided to open a branch in New York where no one knew its name. I built relationships with HVAC businesses around the area and notified them we were moving nearby soon. I will never forget the pride I felt once the branch opened and companies stopped by and said, “Elsa told me to come."

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women? 

My mentor and friend Lisa Strollo hired me the same day she interviewed me for a buyer of souvenirs at a previous job. Her trust in me to make decisions gave me the confidence to not be afraid to go after what is needed to get the job done. That is what has led me to where I am today. 

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

The industry has so much to offer women on every level from accounting, installation, business management — the list goes on! Businesses should be less reluctant to respond to a female name on a resume, and should even pursue female applicants or graduates. 

What does it mean to receive this honor?

This honor means starting from scratch and taking a job where I knew nothing was so worth it. It means that my love and passion for my customers is appreciated. It means that women can do anything, anywhere, anytime! 

Patience Whipple
Marketing Manager, Chariot Plumbing Supply and Design

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

As the marketing manager at Chariot Plumbing Supply and Design, I'm all about dressing the business up and bringing on brand awareness for our kitchen/bath products and services. I emphasize the creative aspects of the company, such as producing digital and print material for our trade partners and other clientele. 

Why did you enter the PHCP industry?

I have always been in love with interior design. As a young adult, my addiction was HGTV. However, I never saw myself as an interior designer. My goal has always been to be part of the industry while highlighting my own personal skill set. To wiggle my way in, I started as a design consultant for flooring. Eventually, I came upon Chariot in 2018. I instantly fell in love with the kitchen and bath industry and never looked back. 

What are some of your career highlights?  

The ultimate highlight was receiving the National Kitchen and Bath Association Thirty Under 30 Class of 2022 award. It has given me an incredible amount of clout and amazing opportunities. 

What are your thoughts on mentorship for women?  

I don't have a mentor, but I have admired NKBA Executive Vice President Suzie Williford. Learning about her story and accomplishments has definitely made her a role model of mine. 

What can the industry do to better recruit and retain women?

The industry should capitalize more on mentoring opportunities, gender rights, diversity, and pay equality. There are so many phenomenal women currently in the industry, and I believe more ambitious women are looking for the opportunity to join. These women just need to be given a chance — whether they have the experience or not.

What does it mean to receive this honor?

It's incredible to be recognized amongst this group of accomplished women. I believe it's crucial to continue to highlight the work women in the PHCP industry do, because sometimes it goes unrecognized.

Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.