Women are becoming less ambitious. That couldn’t be further from the truth, but it’s one of the most reported myths about the current state of women at work. According to the October 2023 “Women in the Workplace” report from McKinsey & Co., conducted in partnership with LeanIn.org, women are more ambitious than before the COVID-19 pandemic (https://bit.ly/3OWHCY8). Although the pandemic “showed women that a new model of balancing work and life was possible … the increased flexibility did not dampen women’s ambitions.” At every stage of the corporate pipeline, “they are as committed to their careers and as interested in being promoted as men.”

Indeed, the report reveals women’s representation in the C-suite is at the highest it has ever been. However, women — and especially women of color — continue to lose the most ground in middle management, making it harder to catch up to their male counterparts. 

In 2023, for every 100 men promoted from entry-level to manager, only 87 women were promoted. A September 2023 fact sheet from the Institute of Women’s Policy Research states, “If progress continues at the same rate as it has since 1960, it will still take more than three decades, until 2053, for all working women to reach pay equity with men” (https://bit.ly/49RwuUp).

Once again, we aim to supplement this data and identify how these broader workforce trends may appear in the plumbing, heating, cooling and piping (PHCP) community. Through interviews with women in various industry fields, we learn why they enjoy being a part of the PHCP community, how they believe the industry can continue to improve and diversify, and the advice they would give to other women looking to start similar careers.

Join us as we celebrate our 2024 Women In PHCP honorees — 11 inspiring individuals making their mark in different ways!

Maria Grazia Campos
Automation Discipline Lead, Environmental Systems Design (now Stantec)

Maria focuses on the design, implementation and commissioning of automation systems. She has contributed to the design of high-rises, hospitals, data centers and theaters, allowing her to bring solutions to clients faced with unique challenges. Maria is an active member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers and enjoys collaborating with others on technical committees.

Why did you enter the industry? 

In high school, I took art and AutoCAD classes and competed in local AutoCAD/architectural competitions. I eventually enrolled in the Systems Engineering and Design program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). It was not until my internship with Environmental Systems Design (ESD now Stantec) that I truly learned about the role of control systems engineering. While in school, I became a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional and started a local U.S. Green Building Council student chapter. I quickly realized I had found a niche that I wanted to pursue as a career.

What are some of your career highlights? 

I cannot speak highly enough of the team of amazing engineers I have worked with; they are the reason I have had such an enjoyable career. One specific highlight is Chicago’s Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, a multiyear project for the top rehab research hospital. Although I led the control system design for this project, I learned a lot from my colleagues leading the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) design. Seeing these unique design elements come together was rewarding. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

My mother and sister have been my most influential mentors. I have also had amazing male mentors from the start of my career at ESD now Stantec who trusted me to take on new responsibilities. I always support the inclusion of women and try to share my knowledge — whether through my past mentorship of a FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) robotics team, my current participation on the UIUC Industrial and Enterprise Systems Engineering alumni board, or through one-on-one mentorship of colleagues.

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

Take on challenges. It is important to put effort into learning as much as you can early on, but make sure to ask for the opportunities you want as opposed to waiting for them to be handed to you. Don’t ever doubt your worth or successes, and be sure to celebrate them.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

We can focus more outreach to young girls and make them aware of the opportunities in our industry early in their educational careers. We also must strive for a more inclusive and equitable culture, recognizing the value in differing perspectives that every individual brings. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

It is humbling. I feel extremely grateful for all the support I received throughout my career, both in my failures and successes. I hope to raise other aspiring engineers and those already in the PHCP industry to celebrate their talents and positive impacts.

Kristine Fichera
Regional Sales Manager, Everflow Supplies

Kristine began her career as a national sales rep for a ground-penetrating radar company. She took a detour between building materials and pipe, valves and fittings (PVF) to start an inspirational clothing line for women called “Liv’n Out Loud,” which was featured on “Good Morning America” and in swag bags for the 2007 Oscars — even resulting in a phone call and personal order from Helen Mirren herself! 

Why did you enter the industry? 

I loved this industry from the beginning! Working with contractors (and now wholesalers) is real and raw. It is truly a relationship industry, and the loyalty in the PHCP community is unmatched. Your name is your brand, and customers will stay with you — regardless of who you represent — because they trust you. I don’t know many industries like it.

What are some of your career highlights? 

I’m lucky to say that I turned work relationships into personal friendships. I’ve been a top producer and named most profitable employee, yielded year-over-year growth for five straight years, and closed a single $1 million sale for two truckloads of copper.

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

I don’t have specific mentors as much as I have role models. Early in my life, I was always drawn to strong women, starting with my mother. She was smart, driven and unwavering in her conviction that women should be equals in a male-dominated workplace. I have also looked up to many other amazing women — from Ruth Bader Ginsburg to Dolly Parton.

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

Go for it! Learn everything you can and take advantage of every opportunity because this industry is always growing and improving. It not only relies on original practices and standards but also embraces and rewards people for their knowledge and commitment to their craft. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

The industry should create welcoming and inclusive work environments, provide opportunities for advancement, offer equal compensation, and promote its benefits to women’s organizations, networking events and career fairs.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I got my start in the ’90s as one of less than five or so female on-air DJs in Boston radio. I fought my way up through the ranks, getting my own show on WCGY. After the station shut down, I went into sales, working my way up alongside the men again. Receiving this honor is a gold star on top of an already rewarding career and validation that my determination to navigate male-controlled industries was a success!

Susan Jacobs-Marshalsea
President, Ms. Fix It Plumbing

Susan is a Master Plumber in Massachusetts who has been plumbing for more than 40 years. Her children recently started a nonprofit in her late husband’s name, the Ron Marshalsea Jr. Trade Scholarship. Each year, it awards a Norwood, Mass., high school graduate $1,000 toward a trade school. 

Why did you enter the industry? 

My decision to enter the plumbing trade was easy. I represent the fifth generation of Master Plumbers and wanted to carry on the tradition of Jacobs Plumbing, “A Family of Master Plumbers Since 1895!”

What are some of your career highlights? 

Every day has some sort of highlight — whether being a detective and figuring out where something is leaking, a yoga instructor fitting into crawl spaces, or a good listener to someone as I rebuild their shower valve. From a young child asking me questions to customers offering a bag of homemade cookies, being able to help others in their time of need is always a highlight.

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

When I began in the field in the late ’70s, I did not know any women in any trade, so I had to figure out how to be a woman plumber on my own in a field controlled by men. I have mentored quite a few women in the past. I also speak at local schools during career days, hoping to entice the younger generation to think about any trade as a career. I host Plumbing 101 workshops at my shop as well, teaching homeowners basic plumbing knowledge. 

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

Go for it! You don’t have to be big and strong. There is always a way of doing something; you just need to figure it out (and never let an inanimate object beat you). There is a severe shortage of tradespeople nationwide, and women have a huge opportunity to fill the skills gap. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

Interviewing tradeswomen can help, as well as bringing back shop classes to students in school systems nationwide. We need to get tools back into their hands at an age where they are still learning and trying to figure out what they would like to do in the future.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

It’s amazing! I try hard to help promote the trades to everyone, not only women. There’s something to be said about having tools in your hands and using your brain to help others. The plumbing trade has been good to me and allowed me to support my family, help others and know that what I do is greatly appreciated by many. 

Samantha Janowski
Regional Sales Manager, Bemis Mfg.

Samantha leads and oversees the eastern region for Bemis. She works with new and existing customers and channel partners, including wholesalers, architects, engineers, contractors and end-users, to increase revenue potential and expand into new markets. 

Why did you enter the industry? 

During undergrad, I found a marketing internship for Haws Corp. At that time, I was clueless as to what an eyewash station was. To my surprise, I was brought in for multiple interviews and got the job. After 10 years with Haws, I decided it was time to learn more about the industry from a different lens and started working for Bemis Mfg. Selling eyewash stations and toilet seats was not exactly what my 5-year-old self dreamt of doing, but here I am 12 years later, not looking back.

What are some of your career highlights? 

I am proud to have dedicated 10 years of my career to Haws Corp., where multiple individuals motivated and supported my professional growth. Moving across the country from Nevada to North Carolina to pursue my career advancement from marketing to sales was a big step, both personally and professionally.

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

My mother and sister have been behind me at every stage of my life, teaching me invaluable lessons in patience and perseverance. I’ve been fortunate to have multiple women throughout my career support me, and I am beyond thankful for each of them. Informally, I aim to support women in the earlier stages of their marketing or sales careers. I try to provide guidance to help them work on personal improvement and think about the bigger picture.

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

Find your strengths, challenge yourself and put happiness first in your job.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

The industry can increase general awareness of its advantages. The plumbing business can be challenging yet rewarding, especially for women in a male-controlled field. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

Knowing my name crossed the mind of someone who thinks my efforts have made an impact is a fulfilling feeling, and I am grateful to have been nominated.

Danielle Laird 
Sales Manager – National Accounts, Bradford White Corp.

Danielle supports the development and implementation of Bradford White’s national account sales strategy. She works closely with specific national wholesale customers and rep partners and is committed to empowering contractors through wholesale distribution. Danielle’s goal is to continue strengthening the value of the wholesale channel. Last year, she started her own industry-focused Instagram account. Follow her @daniellelaird_. 

Why did you enter the industry? 

I was introduced to the industry in 2015 when I began working for an industry buying group. I gained significant exposure to the manufacturer and wholesale channel, and I discovered the impact our industry has on literally every business and residence. What we do is important, and I wanted to be a part of that work by helping to establish and grow a network of strong manufacturer and distributor relationships. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

I was the first woman at Bradford White to secure an outside sales role and played a pivotal role in creating Bradford White’s Women’s Network. Today, I represent Bradford White in several industry groups, including the American Supply Association (ASA). However, I am most proud of the relationships I have established within my short time in the PHCP industry.

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

I have been surrounded by many dedicated and intelligent female and male leaders, including Michelle Lewnes-Dadas of Preferred Sales Inc. and Jim McGoldrick of Bradford White. Outside of the industry, I look to my parents, who have modeled what it means to be passionate about your career while staying true to yourself. 

Mentoring might be one of my favorite parts of my career right now! I am incredibly passionate about paying it forward and have the privilege to mentor many young women and men through my relationships at Bradford White. 

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

There are many opportunities in the PHCP industry. Where you are right now might not be your forever, and that’s OK. Stay true to yourself. If an opportunity aligns with your values and interests — even if it is scary and new — accept that challenge. It will only make you stronger. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

During the inaugural year of Bradford White’s Women’s Network, we established the first Parental Leave Policy in our company’s history. This type of policy helps attract and encourage the promotion of women in the trades.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I am humbled to be recognized. I take it as a challenge to continue my personal and professional growth and make an impact at Bradford White and the industry. Stay tuned.

Jacquelyn Lindsey Wynn
COO, Lindsey Brothers

Jacquelyn works with her 57-plus-year-old family business to provide plumbing and heating services and encourage others to learn more about the trade. Prior to her full-time role at Lindsey Brothers, Jacquelyn worked in the telecommunications industry and at IBM as a systems engineer. She is active in her church and community in the Washington metropolitan area. 

Why did you enter the industry? 

My grandparents, along with my parents and their siblings, started my family’s plumbing and heating business. As a teenager, it was my responsibility to help. I started in entry-level positions, working after school and during the summer. I have worked as a cashier, bookkeeper, assistant office manager, and more. I have served as the chair of the board of directors for more than three decades and most recently was appointed COO.

What are some of your career highlights?

Some highlights include spearheading Lindsey Brothers’ communications and technological overhaul (while keeping costs down), implementing the company website and operations software to check workflow from anywhere, leading the team that coordinated the 50th Celebration Gala for the company’s golden anniversary event, and coordinating community events with Lindsey Brothers’ adopted neighborhood school and our Annual Handle YO Business session that emphasizes the trades.

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

Throughout my life, I’ve been blessed to have female mentors willing to share their experiences and knowledge with me. I feel compelled to give back and pay it forward. One of my life goals is to help others be the best they can be and use their God-given talents to live their best lives — not just settle.

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

Do not be afraid to enter a field long dominated by men. There is a place for you. Be prepared by gleaning the knowledge, applying it and bringing others along with you.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

With the trades less emphasized in our schools, we need to better promote the trades as viable options (as we do with college and the military). We need to start planting the seed much sooner than high school.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I do what I do to inform, inspire and impact those in my sphere of influence — without expected fanfare. I am humbled by this honor. 

Barbara Lloyd
Senior CAD Technician, Marcone Group

After 13 years as an assembly worker, Barbara returned to school to learn a new trade, computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting. In her current role, she works closely with Marcone Group engineers by creating and revising technical drawings. She oversees the product documentation manager system and converts product drawings into numerous formats. 

Why did you enter the industry? 

When interviewing for a position with Speakman, I was impressed by the knowledge and enthusiasm of the managers — and the company’s development of new showerheads (the industry standard in the hospitality market). I instantly understood the satisfaction of being part of a successful organization in an industry where I could personally appreciate the products.

What are some of your career highlights? 

Being promoted to senior CAD technician was a highlight, as well as being recognized for International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2021. Additionally, having started at Speakman, I experienced two acquisitions (first PPG, then Marcone Group). As a result, over the past nine years, I have been able to expand the products I work on and learn more about a diverse array of plumbing products.

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

I had a female mentor, Amy, for a period before she transferred to another department (we still keep in contact periodically). When I previously worked in the pharmaceutical industry, I mentored a young woman, Kristen. I have not had the opportunity to do so since then, and I would encourage more women to participate in our industry. I train new hires in our company processes and coach them on various topics, though. 

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

There are many different positions and career opportunities in this industry. Know what you want to do and go for it. Prepare yourself for a challenging yet rewarding career.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

A company looking to hire should keep gender equality in mind. If women can perform the same jobs at the same level of quality, they deserve equal pay. On average, women make 84 percent of what men do for the same positions. Pay scales should be discussed during an interview, and companies should give women an understanding of why they’re paid what they’re paid — and what positions and salaries exist moving forward.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I feel appreciated and respected by my coworkers who have thought of me for this honor. I am grateful to be able to work with such people. 

Robin McLaughlin
Regional Sales Manager, Southwest, A. O. Smith Corp.

In the middle of her long career in the water heating industry, Robin returned to college while working full-time and received her bachelor’s degree in business at Belmont University. This year will mark her 40th anniversary with A.O. Smith. 

Why did you enter the industry? 

I began my career before I turned 20 years old. Entry into this industry was my destiny — I grew up in a small town on the Cumberland River in Tennessee near one of the world’s largest water heater manufacturers, State Water Heaters. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

My career began with an entry-level position in customer service, where I hand-wrote parts invoices. Over the years, I have vastly increased my expertise by holding 16 distinct jobs within the organization, working my way up through the ranks in sales, marketing and operations. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

There have always been strong women in various leadership positions during my career who inspired and mentored me. I am also a firm believer in helping to pull other women up the career ladder. I take pride in having grown the industry by hiring other women and setting them up for success. Beyond individual mentorship, for two years I was the regional leader of A.O. Smith’s Women’s Resource Network — an initiative that aims to elevate women at A.O. Smith through professional development.

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

There is no facet of this industry in which a woman cannot excel. Follow your desires; there should be no barriers to accomplishing your goals. Do not be intimidated. There are many avenues to success and a fulfilling and fruitful career in this industry.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

The PHCP community can focus on driving home a mission of inclusivity and equality. The industry is proud to attract all types of people and aims to treat them all fairly.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

It is a distinct honor to be recognized by your peers. Moreover, I am proud to represent women in the PHCP industry and our ability to have a positive impact in a myriad of ways.

Shannon Mercil 
Director of Vendor Relations, Hajoca 

Based in New Orleans, Shannon is responsible for managing a robust vendor relationship program at Hajoca. She educates the vendor community on different pathways to success and crafts a long-term vision for growing and maintaining mutually beneficial partnerships. 

Why did you enter the industry? 

I began my journey through a talent agency. I didn’t realize when I started how much I would grow to love the industry, but I quickly became enamored with the diversity of people and the vast opportunities it provides. Twenty-four years later, I continue to learn and develop life-long friendships. 

What are some of your career highlights? 

Highlights include participating in ASA’s Women in Leadership board and the Southern Wholesalers Association’s Women Leadership board. I have participated in numerous vendor panel boards and discussions, which provide a platform to highlight the benefits of diversity. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

There have been numerous female mentors who contributed to my success, including Suzanne Chreene, Dalyn Cattrell, Janelle Grim and Shannon LeMoine. I am eternally grateful for what these ladies have contributed to our industry overall, as well as their investment in me. I also enjoy any opportunity where I can contribute to the future success and development of my talented female peers. 

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

It is a great time to contribute to the best industry out there! I would encourage a desire to learn, resilience and flexibility. Advocate your strengths and take risks! Find a mentor who will invest in your success and always demonstrate your strength with grace and kindness. 

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

The industry should understand unconscious bias and provide information on the multifaceted opportunities available. Encourage and invite others to engage through multiple platforms. It is important to have female advocates who can help create and inspire future leaders. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

I am grateful and appreciative of this prestigious recognition. I am excited that organizations such as PHCPPros are highlighting female leadership, and am humbled to be recognized amongst my peers. 

Karen Schulte
Project Manager/Associate, Mueller Associates

Karen is a mechanical engineer for an MEP consulting engineering firm in Baltimore. She has nearly 20 years in the industry but her most cherished title is “momma.”

Why did you enter the industry? 

I majored in architectural engineering with a mechanical emphasis at Penn State University. This major leads directly into the architecture, engineering and construction industry, and I interned with Mueller Associates before my last year of college. I had such a wonderful experience bridging the theoretical knowledge I learned in my classwork to real-work application. Now, almost 18 years later, I still work for the same company.

What are some of your career highlights? 

One highlight is working on projects at the Smithsonian Institution National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute in Washington, D.C., where we designed a smoke evacuation system for the Great Ape House and the revitalization of the Bird House. Both projects required that we design the HVAC and plumbing systems with the animals in mind.

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

I wouldn’t say I’ve had a specific woman mentor, but I feel lucky that I have quite a few women friends in the industry. I am the American Society of Plumbing Engineers Baltimore Chapter Women of ASPE Liaison, which allows me to bring together women from the engineering and manufacturers’ rep world. 

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

There’s a lot to learn in this industry — and a lot more than is taught in the classroom. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your coworkers and other industry professionals. There is so much knowledge around us, and no singular person needs to be an expert at everything.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

For recruitment, the industry can provide more awareness of the available career options. With that exposure, the industry should also explain what each career entails and what work is associated with daily tasks.

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

It is a great honor to receive this spotlight and share one of the many roles women play in this industry.

Leigh Suffian
President, Immerse, and Vice President, Atlas Supply Co.

Leigh runs her third-generation family business with her brother, cousin and a team of “very talented people.” She says she is grateful to love what she does and who she works with. 

Why did you enter the industry? 

I started a six-month internship at Atlas in 1993 and was supposed to travel internationally afterward. I also expected to start a career in nonprofit using my new MBA degree. I ended up enjoying the industry and never left. This has been a rewarding career, and I thank our predecessors who paved the way for us!

What are some of your career highlights? 

I remember being in awe at my first trade show in New Orleans around ’95. Concepting our showroom, Immerse, was a true learning experience, and winning several Showroom of the Year awards has been exciting. Securing the Waterworks Boutique Partnership for St. Louis was also gratifying. 

What are your experiences with women mentors or mentees?

I have a group of industry associates who rely on each other for advice. Luxury Products Group has been a fantastic resource for this. Over the years, I have tried to be a resource and cheerleader for numerous women. Coaching takes time, patience and skill and is probably the most important thing we can do as we get further along in our careers.

What is your advice for women entering this industry?

We need you! Women can be wonderful listeners, leaders and decision-makers. This is an industry for smart, talented women searching for careers in sales, operations, management, and more. Find your passion, refine your skills, ask for help — but start your path here.

How can the industry better recruit and retain women? 

A campaign involving real women who have had careers in this industry could be impactful. Women’s equality is a hot issue, and women in construction have a powerful message. 

What does it mean to receive this honor? 

It was meaningful to be nominated for this. When you are young and a customer won’t take an order from you because you are a woman — although you are qualified — you don’t yet have the skills, experience or voice to know how to handle it. After 30 years in this industry, it is exciting to see women specifically being recognized.

Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.