Women in Plumbing & Piping (WiPP) proudly welcomes Oatey Co., an industry-leading manufacturer of plumbing products, as its 15th founding sponsor, forming another strategic alliance with the aim of creating opportunities and fostering a supportive community for women in the plumbing and piping industry.

Since its establishment in 2022, WiPP has been committed to cultivating a vibrant and inclusive environment for women in plumbing and piping. With Oatey Co. joining as the 15th founding sponsor, WiPP celebrates another significant milestone in its journey, recognizing the pivotal role that its sponsors play in shaping the plumbing landscape.

Oatey’s is committed to supporting the vitality of the skilled trades, using its initiative The Fix to promote trades careers, debunk stereotypes and inspire the next generation of essential trades professionals. As part of The Fix, Oatey produces a podcast of the same name, featuring guests from across the industry with a shared commitment to improving the pipeline of skilled trades talent. 

“At Oatey, we are passionate about spotlighting the rewarding careers available in the skilled trades,” said Katherine Lehtinen, senior vice president of marketing at Oatey and co-host of The Fix podcast. “That’s why we’re so pleased to partner with Women in Piping and Plumbing. By reaching traditionally underrepresented groups like women, we can tap into a new talent pool that will make a difference in our communities for generations to come.”

As one of the final spots at this exclusive level, Oatey Co. joins a select group of industry leaders dedicated to championing the advancement of women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Lehtinen emphasized the importance of involvement from manufacturers and companies like Oatey in movements like Women in Piping and Plumbing: “As manufacturers, it’s critical that we each do our part to combat the skilled trades shortage. Together, we can truly make a difference.” 

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Oatey as one of our final founding sponsors. With their support, we’re building bridges for women to excel in traditionally male-dominated fields,” says Kim Gill, executive director of Women in Plumbing & Piping. “This partnership exemplifies our joint dedication to creating tangible opportunities and fostering a supportive community where women can lead and inspire.”

In addition to the founding sponsorship, Oatey Co. sponsored a WiPP panel at last year’s PHCC Connect Conference, further solidifying its commitment to supporting women in the trades and providing them with valuable opportunities for networking and professional development.

As a founding sponsor, Oatey Co. joins WiPP in its ongoing efforts to provide women with the resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities needed to excel in their careers and drive positive change within the industry.

For more information about WiPP and remaining sponsorship opportunities, please visit: https://www.womeninplumbandpipe.org/partner-program.