A strong line-up of top apprentices will have their opportunity to shine at the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC) Educational Foundation’s National Plumbing and HVACR apprentice contests. This two-day competition will take place during CONNECT 2024, Oct. 7-10, at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center, Birmingham, Alabama.

These contests — always a popular attraction on the trade show floor — will highlight the skills and expertise of the nation’s top apprentices in the plumbing and HVACR industries and allow attendees to watch the contestants’ progress.

Apprentices from across the country will come together to showcase their expertise and compete for the title of the nation’s top apprentice. This event offers apprentices not only a chance to demonstrate their skills but also an opportunity to network with fellow apprentices and industry professionals.

Plumbing apprentices must rough-in a bathroom – including the drain, waste and vent lines, a toilet, a sink and shower. HVACR apprentices must demonstrate their knowledge with a written test, plus their hands-on skills with brazing, pressure testing, refrigerant recovery and diagnosing and repairing a package unit system.

The evening of Tuesday, Oct. 8, will kick off with a pep rally on the tradeshow floor to energize and support the contestants. University of Alabama sportscaster Chris Stewart will emcee the event. After the contest concludes on Wednesday, Oct. 9, participants and attendees are invited to celebrate at the awards breakfast on Thursday, Oct. 10. This event will honor the top performers and offer a final chance to honor the hard work and dedication of the next generation of industry leaders.

“We are very proud to sponsor these contests each year,” said Kevin Tindall, PHCC Educational Foundation chair. “Not only do they provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for star apprentices to demonstrate their skills on a national stage, but the contests also support the Foundation’s mission by helping to generate awareness for local apprentice programs, boosting interest in the fields of plumbing and HVAC and attracting new recruits to the industry.” 

For more details, visit phccweb.org/CONNECT. This site offers information on education sessions, speakers, exhibitors, registration and hotel reservations, as well as the many attractions of Birmingham, Alabama, known as “The Country’s Best Kept Secret.” Register for CONNECT 2024 here.