The “shecovery” has arrived. As discussed in our last Women In PHCP feature, women lost jobs at a much higher rate than men in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic (http://bit.ly/3kACJIj). But now, it is women who are driving the workforce comeback.

A February 2023 article (https://wapo.st/3KGuODS) from The Washington Post states, “When compared to the pandemic low point in April 2020, women’s labor force participation rates are up by 3.4 percentage points, while for men it’s 2.1 percentage points.”

Indeed, women’s labor force participation is reaching new highs, “with employment of women ages 25-54 back to pre-pandemic levels,” according to a February 2023 fact sheet by the Center for American Progress (https://ampr.gs/3YaNKO5). 

The good news doesn’t stop there. Last year, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showcased a major milestone for our industry: In August 2022, the number of women construction workers reached an all-time high of 14% (http://bit.ly/3IBDB7o). 

The Million Women in Construction Initiative may help this number rise even more. Announced at the October 2022 North American Building Trades Union’s Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, the goal of the initiative is to double the number of women working in the construction industry over the next decade — from 1 million to 2 million.

Maintaining the Momentum

Of course, with all progress comes room for improvement. According to the October 2022 “Women in the Workplace” report from McKinsey (https://mck.co/3Z5hgq1), conducted in partnership with
LeanIn.Org, “Women leaders are switching jobs at the highest rates we’ve ever seen — and at higher rates than men in leadership.” 

The listed reasons women leaders are stepping away from their companies include experiencing microaggressions, taking on more work with fewer rewards, and desiring to work for organizations that better prioritize flexibility, employee well-being, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

“If companies don’t take action, they risk losing not only their current women leaders but also the next generation of women leaders,” the report states. 

When we reviewed our nominations for this feature, we were thrilled to see representation from these two groups — seasoned leaders and industry newcomers, all essential parts of the PHCP community. We knew their insights would help us learn how the industry we all love can avoid recent negative trends and, instead, maintain the momentum the labor force at large has seen this past year.

Join us as we celebrate our 2023 Women In PHCP honorees — 13 inspiring individuals who are all making their mark in different ways!

Taylor Duran 
Code Development Administrator, IAPMOWhat is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I work in code development as the staff liaison for the Uniform Mechanical Code; Uniform Solar, Hydronics and Geothermal Code; and the Water Efficiency and Sanitation Standard. My main role is to manage Technical Committee activities and projects throughout IAPMO’s code development process to provide consumers with safe systems. 

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

My father, Thomas Costea, inspired me to be an engineer. From an early age, I witnessed his dedication to the HVACR industry. Since he is a patent holder, refrigeration contractor and business owner, I have continuous inspiration to expand my knowledge and grow within the industry.

What are some of your career highlights? 

A few of my career highlights pertain to standard development and management of Task Groups for IAPMO. One of my first projects was an installation standard, IAPMO IS 34, for solar photovoltaic and energy storage systems in residential applications. This project allowed me to gain knowledge and insight from technical experts and ultimately resulted in a comprehensive document for installation of these systems. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

From my first day at IAPMO, Alma Ramos has guided me through the code development process and provided invaluable assistance during Technical Committee meetings. On the standard development side, Angela Juarez has helped me with the development and publication of IAPMO IS 34 and IAPMO/ANSI H1001.1. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

From my personal experience, I can attest to the importance of college campus recruitment. Participating in lectures and offering guest speakers introduces students to the PHCP industry while they are determining a career path. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I am both humbled and grateful for this recognition. It is imperative that women work together to empower one another and promote successful careers. 

Samantha Flournoy
Dual Trade Apprentice,
Mr. Dan’s Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

Why did you enter a career in the PHCP industry? 

I was introduced to the industry by my husband, Nathan, who is a master plumber for Mr. Dan’s. One day he asked me to help him on the job, so I did and thought, “I can do this.” In this trade, you do something different every day, and I love the client interaction and helping people. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

The first time I installed a water heater by myself, the homeowners kept asking if I was the only one coming. After my work was done, they took pictures with me, which made me feel really good. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

I look up to Loida Carter, our general manager at Mr. Dan’s, and Audra Staks, our administrative manager. I can count on both at any time. I also love going to high school career days or events and talking to girls about this industry, encouraging them to look into trade schools. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

We should talk to women about fieldwork and show them the available field positions and apprentice programs, as they might think that only office positions are open in this trade. We need to make it known to the community that women can do plumbing as well.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

It makes me feel good to bring to light what women can be in this industry. 

Eva-Marie Fox
Vice President, T&S Brass and Bronze WorksWhat is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I am vice president with T&S Brass and Bronze Works, a commercial plumbing equipment manufacturer based in South Carolina. As an executive at the family-owned company, it has grown from a domestically known manufacturer to a global entity in the plumbing and foodservice equipment supply market. 

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

My career started in a different industry, but I decided to join the family business for “a year.” That was 32 years ago. It’s the people in the industry that I enjoy the most. I’ve made lifelong friendships and admire the work everyone puts in every day. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

Highlights include being part of a growing business, adapting to change along the way, and constantly learning. Opportunities to work with industry organizations and community service are also a highlight for me. I am on the board of the North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers, Certified Foodservice Professional and have trained and chaired several community organizations. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

The very first manufacturers’ rep I worked with 30-plus years ago was incredible. She was an extraordinary lady who made it clear anyone could work in this industry. Since then, I have had several mentors in my business, industry and outside organizations who demonstrate that when you work for something you believe in, all the rest falls into place. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

The PHCP industry would benefit from updating the message. Change the narrative and let everyone realize that the industry is dynamic and represents needed solutions for now and future needs. It’s a vibrant community of engineers, designers, sales personnel and more, with many working to find a solution to a problem.

 What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I am humbled to be recognized and hope that celebrating people in our market encourages others to advance their careers in the industry. 

Megan Hessil
Plumbing Engineer, SmithGroupWhat is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I provide support to my SmithGroup team by producing quality documentation through design and administration. This includes serving in a supporting role to project leads or leading various projects.

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

Since high school, I knew that I wanted to be an engineer. After learning about each general engineering discipline, I decided mechanical was the best fit for me. This led me to pursue the necessary education at my university. I had no idea plumbing was an engineering discipline. When that opportunity presented itself, I jumped on it because I had grown up in that world with my father, a plumber. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

One of my biggest highlights is working on a new facility for the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., a high-profile project with an incredibly unique design process. On a fast-paced schedule, TSMC sparked a boom in development in Phoenix; it now serves an important role in the domestic production of microchips after the COVID-19 pandemic slowed production globally. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

I admire my mother the most. She is a force wherever she goes, with an attitude and professionalism to match her experience that I hope to attain one day. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

As I mentioned, I had no idea plumbing was a type of engineering. There needs to be a larger effort by employers to promote the less well-known disciplines.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

This honor is positive reinforcement that even with my limited experience, I have the capability to continue to grow and thrive moving forward. It means that other engineers new to the industry can see it is possible to be recognized early on in their careers. 

Wendy Hornak
Inside Sales Manager, Preferred Sales Inc.What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I’ve held my role as Preferred Sales’ inside sales manager for five years. I started my career in outside sales with PSI. After becoming a mom to my first son, who had severe special needs, I decided my career needed to head in another direction. PSI created a remote inside sales role for me in 2012, and the rest is history. 

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

After I graduated college, I worked for a water company during the day and bartended during evenings and weekends. I was approached by our co-owner and now Vice President of Sales Michelle Lewnes-Dadas in 2004, but it was not until 2006 that I accepted a position. Michelle saw my work ethic and determination and said, “Bartending is just like sales, and you’re a great bartender.”

What are some of your career highlights? 

My biggest highlight is transitioning from outside to inside sales and then to a leadership role while working primarily remotely. I also have trainings with every employee who comes to work for PSI, and I am proud that I have helped in the development of our team and onboarding process. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

The biggest mentor of my life is my mother. I also have had the privilege of having Michelle as a colleague, leader and friend. 

I have found passion in mentorship by volunteering. I am the vice president of our Partners in Education program at our son’s school, which is made up of mostly working moms. I have been a confidant of several special needs moms within this community. I find that working mothers in today’s world have a wealth of knowledge to share, especially with our upcoming generation of young professional women. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

Making sure we are recruiting and not limiting our views on diversity is a huge component of our future. I also feel social media presence will play a big role in women moving forward in the industry. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I am grateful to be among the past and present honorees who have been rocking this industry. Being a part of this elite crew of women is truly amazing. 

Jackie Marsh
Continuous Improvement Manager, RIDGID/Professional Tools at Emerson Commercial & Residential Solutions

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I serve as the continuous improvement manager for Emerson’s Professional Tools, including RIDGID. In my role, I get to work with all facets of the business to create process improvements that will help us get our products to our distributors and end-users as quickly as possible while keeping our operators and employees safe. 

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

When I started working for Emerson, I had two very young children and was looking for a company that would help me achieve a good work-life balance. My brother-in-law worked at the Elyria facility and suggested I apply. I started my career here in customer service, and that sense of helping people in their time of need really drew me in.

What are some of your career highlights? 

I love the people I work with — not only my coworkers but also the customers. Additionally, during my 19 years here at Emerson, there have been many times we’ve worked to supply products during critical situations — such as after a hurricane or earthquake. I have also traveled to Manila, Philippines, for training purposes, as well as visited other facilities throughout the United States to work on production efficiencies and safety upgrades. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

My first manager at Emerson was Lynn Reising. She showed me how to communicate effectively with all aspects of the company. Mentoring is very important to me, and I appreciate how it is ingrained in the culture at Emerson. We have a full onboarding and mentoring program that welcomes recent graduates and new employees. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

From the outside, there is often the perception that the only places you’ll see women in this industry are in customer service, sales or marketing. At Emerson, we’ve worked hard to overcome that perception, and you’ll find women in all areas of our business. We also have an employee resource group (ERG) for STEM, which is a great outreach program for workforce development.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

Receiving this honor is unbelievable. I have always strived to do my job to the best of my ability and lead by example. Emerson has allowed me to be the person I believe I can be. I am truly grateful. 

Leticia Colon de Mejias
Building Performance Analyst, Workforce Development Specialist; Green Eco Warriors, Efficiency For All, and Energy Efficiencies SolutionsWhat is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I have the honor of working in vulnerable communities to help folks understand how buildings and HVAC equipment work together to keep us comfortable and safe. We test homes for occupancy certifications, and test heating and domestic hot water systems for safety and efficiency, recommending upgrades when appropriate.

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

I was working at a hospital that saw high cases of carbon monoxide poisoning from heating systems in low-income communities. Through medical research, I learned that energy pollution was the top cause of asthma, stroke, heart attacks and environmental injustice. When I learned about the lack of knowledge on these topics, I felt the need to educate people about the importance of understanding buildings as a system to ensure human safety, as well as to improve our environmental health by using energy wisely. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

I have enjoyed watching the industry move into high-efficiency HVAC upgrades. It is also good to see building science expanding and attracting a more diverse and younger following. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees? 

Elena Chrimat is one of my female work heroes. She is a board member with me at the Building Performance Association. She always packs a punch with her work. 

We also work with girls and young men to teach them skills to build on — how to measure, map out plans and research code. We visit local public schools to talk about our energy demands. Through our M=POWER workforce programs, we teach students a cohort on basic certifications such as OSHA 10, Lead RRP and more.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

It is important to show that women can be successful in technical careers. We need to talk to kids early on to expand the type of people who want to work in trades. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

Honestly, this is a very big honor for me. When I first left my traditional job at the hospital, people thought I had gone crazy. It is so rewarding that now people see my work matters to our energy transition and human health.

Courtney Fretz Obregon
VP & General Manager, Wavin North America What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I lead the North American operations for Wavin, a global water technology company based in the Netherlands. We recently launched in North America, focused on providing safe, healthy and secure water to buildings, cities and the people who live and work within them. 

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

I am passionate about advancing and advocating for solutions that expand access to safe, clean water; increase efficiency in our water use; and improve sanitation and hygiene. Before joining Wavin, I spent much of my career at Dow working on nearly every continent, so I gained a global perspective on the problem. I also saw innovative solutions emerging and wanted to be part of that. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

I prefer to grow within a company vs. changing companies. I was fortunate to have an extended opportunity with large companies such as Dow and now Wavin (whose parent company is Orbia), where both firms are big enough to take on different jobs and roles.

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees? 

My mother was a CEO in the oil pipeline industry. My career goals came from watching her, and it’s a big driver for me now as I mentor other women. I am an active mentor in women’s ERGs in Orbia and previous companies. Alumni networks of Harvard and Penn have also been mentoring channels. Now, as a member of Chief, [an organization supporting women executive leaders,] a lot of networking and mentoring comes across through interest groups and women’s platforms. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

We need to have more women visible in leadership roles in our industry, whether it’s on the jobsite or in the boardroom. Last month, we hosted a group of women at the UN Water Conference for this exact purpose. Visibility is essential and something I want for my two daughters as they watch me in this field. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I am beyond touched to be recognized as a relatively recent participant in the industry. I pledge to continue helping others within Wavin and beyond to be similarly recognized. 

Stacy Papa
Account Manager, F.W. Webb Co.What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

Working in outside commercial sales, my job is to get customers what they need, when they need it. That can involve a different task daily. Some days I work with mechanical contractors to overcome project challenges; other days, I work with engineers on designs; and sometimes I’m involved with product training sessions.

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

Fortunately, my high school participated in a vocational school with an HVACR program taught by a woman. That three-year program allowed me to graduate with a trade and enter the workforce with qualifications immediately. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

A significant highlight for me was transferring from inside to outside sales and hitting the road working face-to-face with customers. I appreciate helping customers develop their businesses while watching my colleagues continue to rise to the occasion. I’ve also been fortunate to receive numerous sales awards, and I even acted in an F.W. Webb commercial! 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees? 

I recently discovered the Women in Energy group. Founded by Erin Holohan Haskell, Judy Garber and Marjorie Feinman, their mission of connecting and empowering women in the energy industry resonates with me.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

The best way to attract intelligent, goal-oriented women would be to include them in critical leadership roles. Show women that your company truly is a woman-friendly, equal-opportunity place of employment. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

Honestly, I felt a bit awkward since I don’t seek the spotlight. After reflecting for a few days, I’m truly humbled and honored. 

Cindy Sheridan, CAE
CEO, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC)What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

As CEO of PHCC, I work to ensure that our members are recognized as the best choice in their respective geographic areas for professionalism, reliable products and knowledgeable service. Through my 22 years of involvement in PHCC — first as vice president of membership and chapter relations, more recently as COO of PHCC’s Educational Foundation — I am uniquely positioned to help PHCC fulfill our strategic goals of public awareness, workforce development, valuable member resources and organizational impact. 

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

I’ve always had a passion for association management. Prior to PHCC, I was in leadership positions for the Bank Marketing Association and the Greater Washington Society of Association Executives. When I transferred those skills to PHCC in 2000, I quickly realized the essential role that PHC professionals play in protecting the health and safety of society. It didn’t take long for their passion to become my passion, and that’s why I’m so committed 22 years later to workforce development in this industry. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

There are several initiatives that I am particularly proud to have worked on during my career at PHCC. Some highlights include the following: In 2007, PHCC’s membership exceeded 4,000, a result of the success of the Horizon Club and the Regional Leadership Workshops; in 2012, the PHCC Educational Foundation took on the leading role in preparing technicians to install the new lead-free products that were a result of the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act; and in 2023, I am proud to be the first female CEO of PHCC—National Association, an organization that was founded in 1883. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees? 

The nature of PHCC is that we’ve established an incredible community of professionals at all levels who mentor each other. We have women contractor members who own their own companies, women who are executive directors of PHCC state chapters — the list goes on. Not only are they an inspiration to young people entering our industry, but also they are an inspiration to me, and I learn from them every day.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

I think one of the best ways to attract women to the industry is to show women in the industry. PHCC has several videos about women in the industry that can help raise awareness of the career opportunities for women in the PHC trades. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I was an outsider when I joined PHCC in 2000. I soon fell in love with the industry, which at that time was considerably more male-dominated. After all these years, it is wonderful to see the increasing numbers of women leaders in all aspects of the industry. I am humbled to be part of this group of women who are making such a huge difference in the industry I love. 

Maya Staneva
Plumbing Engineer, McKinstry

What is your role in the PHCP industry? 

As a plumbing engineer, I am responsible for calculating, designing and modeling efficient plumbing systems for buildings. 

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

As a student, my favorite school subject was math. Thus, engineering seemed to be a good fit for me. At that time, I was really looking into structural engineering, but a structural engineering friend of mine advised me to rethink my major and try plumbing engineering instead. To date, I have never regretted listening to her.

What are some of your career highlights? 

I love the process of starting a plumbing design from concept phase to actual completion of the building. When the project is under construction, it feels really rewarding to hear that plumbing systems are coordinated well with other trades during the design phase, and that not many changes are required preconstruction or in the field. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

My mother is the most important female mentor in my life. Even when my dad passed away, she continued to be strong for my brother and me. Additionally, my first boss in the industry was a woman. She hired me as a graduate student and, together with one of my female coworkers, helped me start my plumbing engineering career. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

Engineering should be introduced to girls at a young age, with educators, mentors and communities proving to them that it is not only a career for men.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I feel flattered. I am proud to be part of this industry, and I am grateful to work alongside many creative and remarkable people. 

Lauren Steinach
Business Development Specialist, PJT Piping ProductsWhat is your role in the PHCP industry? 

I build and maintain business relationships at PJT Piping Products in order to expand and sustain our distribution network. 

Why did you enter a career in the industry?

I moved to Texas from New Jersey because of my husband’s career, and while networking with others in the PHCP industry, I met Pete Tinelli and his son, Toby, of PJT Piping Products. While discussing my previous experiences making business relationships in the service industry, Pete took a chance and offered me a start with a new career. 

What are some of your career highlights?

In my three years in the industry, I have had the opportunity to meet some amazing people. I have also traveled to manufacturing sites to see the products we represent being constructed. However, my greatest career highlight has been my ability, with the help of Pete and Toby, to take on a new career and achieve success in such a short period of time. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees? 

I have had the honor of meeting and networking with women both inside and outside of the industry who have been invaluable in helping me navigate through a field controlled mainly by men, including individuals like Nancy Gibbons and Jennifer Hickman. I owe my success to their leadership. 

While making visits with distributors we service, I have met women who are new to sales, and I have had the opportunity to offer my 20 years of sales experience to help guide them.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women?

The best way to recruit women is to spread the word that there is a place for them in our industry. Creating opportunity and growth within the industry is the best way to keep women engaged and eager to continue their careers here. 

What does it mean to receive this honor?

I am so proud, especially since I have only been in the PHCP industry for a short time. I hope that other women will see this and take more of an interest in our wonderful career field. 

Megan Stewart
Senior Commercial Analyst, Sunbelt SupplyWhat is your role in the PHCP industry?

I handle pricing updates, contract implementation and management, and contract bids at Sunbelt Supply. 

Why did you enter a career in the industry? 

Initially, I was pursuing a degree in opera at Belmont University in Nashville. However, I decided in my sophomore year that I would really like to use my performance skills in industrial sales! So, I transferred into the Industrial Distribution Program at Texas A&M, and the rest is history. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

My favorite part of my career has been building relationships. I have had the pleasure of working with people who care about developing people. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees? 

My manager and the director of business development have been wonderful mentors as I have grown and developed my skills in the industry. I am passionate about paying this forward and building up other women around me in the workforce. I also train and onboard our interns and new hires, and I appreciate the excitement and fresh perspective they provide. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women?

One of my current responsibilities is to visit colleges and recruit undergrad students for internships and then new-grad positions. A focus on advertising PHCP roles to women in college is a needed and very effective way to increase our presence in the industry.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I am humbled to receive this honor and hope it highlights to other women the difference they can make in the PHCP industry. 

Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.