In an effort to spotlight exemplary young professionals in our industry and learn from their insights and experiences, PHCPPros presents our Generation PHCP Class of 2024!  

Our sixth annual young professional feature recognizes those aged 40 and under who are making a mark in plumbing, heating, cooling and piping. Join us as we celebrate 16 exemplary individuals for carrying the torch from previous generations and keeping the PHCP community burning bright — and learn about their journey through our industry, thoughts on how we can better recruit and retain young professionals, and advice they would give to newcomers.

The following are synopses of honorees’ answers to a series of identical questions. Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.

Michael Cerna
Assistant Technical Manager, SFA Saniflo

At Saniflo, Michael Cerna oversees customer service operations, manages sales inquiries and handles troubleshooting, warranty processes and after-sales support. He also assists in sizing pumps for commercial projects. Cerna is affiliated with several industry groups, including the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE). Outside of work, he is passionate about volunteering and coaching kids in sports.  

Cerna entered the industry because he was interested in its technical aspects and wanted to be part of a field that supports essential infrastructure. Some of his career highlights include leading successful customer service initiatives, streamlining troubleshooting processes and significantly improving warranty management.

Through mentorship, Cerna has gained insights into industry best practices and achieved professional growth. He also considers himself a mentor. Training is a major focus of Cerna’s role, and he makes it a priority to be available for training sessions, whether with young adults entering the field or seasoned engineers looking to deepen their understanding.

Cerna feels the industry can better recruit and retain individuals by working with schools to promote career opportunities, offering clear career paths and ongoing training, creating a modern and inclusive work environment that supports work-life balance, and ensuring competitive pay.

“I was surprised by how much technology and innovation are involved in the PHCP industry,” he says. “I used to think it was more traditional and less advanced, but I’ve learned that it’s actually quite dynamic and cutting edge.

“I would advise newcomers to focus on continuous learning and stay updated with industry trends and technologies. Building strong technical skills and gaining hands-on experience are crucial. Networking with industry professionals and seeking mentorship can provide valuable insights and guidance. Lastly, be adaptable and open to new challenges, as the industry constantly evolves.”

Craig Childress
Lead Plumber, Boston University

Craig Childress’ job consists of doing larger renovations of student brownstones to fixing dripping faucets and everything in between. He entered the industry because his parents wanted him to go to a vocational high school. Childress was exposed to more than a dozen trades in his freshman year and was immediately drawn to plumbing. “I liked being able to make something from nothing, and soldering as a 14-year-old was extremely interesting to me,” he says. 

He has earned eight licenses and certificates, including his master plumbing license and North American Technician Excellence certification. Childress was also the double, back-to-back winner of both the 2023 and 2024 Plumbing National Championship and ServiceTitan HVAC National Championship at the Elite Trades Championship Series (ETCS). 

“I have had a lot of help along the way,” he says. Childress tries to give back by helping as many people in the trades as possible and thinks having an apprentice is a great opportunity to positively affect someone’s life.

Childress feels a few organizations and individuals are leading the way in recruiting and retaining young professionals in the trades, such as ETCS, HVAC Tactical, and trade social media influencers in general. 

“When I was younger, I remember hearing how I needed to go to college or I wouldn’t have a successful career,” he says. “After 20 years of being in the field, I can say that is the furthest thing from the truth. I can go to work and do something I love day in and day out while providing a good life for my family.”

Childress advises industry newcomers to “never stop learning.” He feels the previous generation has passed down so much information, “and now it’s our turn to repay the favor for the next generation of young professionals.”

Joe Choflet
Vice President, Sales and Marketing, NIBCO Joe Choflet currently leads the core NIBCO sales team — domestic and international — as well as the product management team. He helps provide their overall strategy and vision, as well as their go-to-market strategy for each product portfolio. Choflet says he couldn’t do what he does without his wife, and credits her for “holding down the fort” with their two children at home. 

“I fell into it,” he says of entering the industry. Choflet started his career in electrical wholesale with a summer laborer job in a distribution center, which led to an internship and other sales roles. He saw many similarities between electrical and PHCP, and eventually took the opportunity to join NIBCO. He says traveling around the world and seeing NIBCO products is a highlight of his career. 

Danny Yarbrough at NIBCO has been a “tremendous mentor” for Choflet, taking him under his wing and providing guidance. Choflet himself “officially” mentors Barb Lynch at NIBCO, who he has great conversations with in and out of work. He also helps with the company’s training program, regularly providing feedback while keeping an open door.

“It is tough to capture the essence of our industry — the networking and true friendships that are created,” Choflet says when asked how the industry can better recruit and retain individuals. “We need to relay that this is a service industry, where people buy from people. Sexy and flashy isn’t always the most stable; we need to convey that our business is always needed to provide plumbing and heating to Americans.”

He recommends that industry newcomers listen to anyone willing to give advice and ask as many questions as possible. “If you don’t want a lifelong career, get out now or you will be here! I mean this in the most positive way,” Choflet says.

Kyle Cline
Director, Supplier Relations, Affiliated Distributors 

Kyle Cline’s primary role with Affiliated Distributors (AD) is working with the organization’s supplier community to develop strategies and accomplish its goal of helping independent distributors win. 

His dad owned a plumbing and HVAC company, so Cline grew up around the trades and spent time on jobsites and in supply houses. “I really wanted to work in his business, but he convinced me to give wholesale distribution a shot first,” he says. Cline worked for an independent distributor for 12 years before joining AD.

Cline has met some of his closest friends working in PHCP. His mentors include his dad, John Orman, Bill Weisberg, Jeffrey Beall, Dan Kelly, Justin Dunscomb, Randy Lee, Jeff Konen, Gary Jackson, Stephanie McAllister, David Hons, Jason DeBruer, David Lowe, Emily DeCosta, Rachel Weaver and Stephen Innis.

“I believe we have an issue with negative perceptions of our industry,” Cline says when asked how the industry can better recruit and retain young professionals. “The trades, in general, are often viewed as a ‘second choice’ career field when that can’t be further from the truth. We need to do a better job of highlighting success stories.”

“I continue to be amazed at the people in our industry,” he says. “After 15 years, I continue to meet new friends and build relationships with people who challenge my current thought processes. There is no lack of amazing ideas in this industry.”

Cline advises those entering the industry to “jump in with both feet” and spend time learning from manufacturers, reps, distributors and industry associations. “Relationships are incredibly important, so treat everyone with respect,” he says. “People don’t often leave our industry — you never know when a great relationship is going to pay off!”

Lianna Faber
Engineer, Empire State Building

Lianna Faber helps service and operate the Empire State Building in New York City, which contains a multitude of HVAC and plumbing equipment such as air handlers, a building management system, chillers and radiators. She is also a part of the Women Pioneers social group, which consists of women in the trades having conversations over a group chat and virtual calls. 

Wanting to try something new and create her own path, Faber decided to enroll in her local trade school and enter a career in HVAC. “My siblings all decided to go to college, but I wanted to try a trade and learn something I could always bring with me,” she says. 

She recently got a job at the Empire State Building as a building engineer, which is something she is very proud of. Getting her Q99 refrigeration license is another career highlight for her. 

Faber often gets DMs through social media asking about her experience of trade jobs, unions and career choices and is always honored to answer any questions. 

She thinks the industry should have more young professionals visit schools and talk about the skilled trades as a potential career path. “I have done this a couple of times and always love to do so,” Faber notes. “College is great, but it’s not the only way to success. You can be very happy and make great money in the trades, too!”

Faber advises industry newcomers that “it’s not going to be an easy path, but it sure as hell will be a rewarding one!”

Rebeca Flores 
Residential Service Supervisor, Magnolia PlumbingRebeca Flores provides technical assistance to plumbing service technicians in the field and trains apprentices to become service techs. She also ensures her team provides short- and long-term options to homeowners so they can make informed decisions.

Always fascinated with the construction field, in high school Flores attended trade school. Through six months of general construction courses, she determined that overcoming challenges in plumbing was the most rewarding. After a few years of college, she decided that returning to a plumbing career would be the most stable course to achieving her goals.

“In new construction, it’s always interesting being part of the process of a home being built from nothing to a luxury, multimillion dollar property,” Flores says about her career highlights. “While in service, it’s having the opportunity to resolve issues for homeowners who are in stressful situations. As a supervisor, it’s watching those who come from absolutely no trade background become successful and knowledgeable field service techs.”

She feels blue-collar jobs have been looked down upon for many years. “We can attract younger people to the industry by changing that perspective,” Flores notes. “Having a job in the construction field can be highly rewarding without an expensive and time-consuming degree, in addition to providing major problem-solving skills that can only be acquired from real-life scenarios.”

It surprised Flores when she learned the number of doors the industry could open: “Everybody needs a plumber at some point.” She advises those entering the industry to be prepared to always learn something new. “Sometimes, the best way to learn is by making mistakes and figuring out how to fix them,” she says. 

Julia Gilbert
Area Sales Manager, NIBCO Julia Gilbert creates, supports and strengthens relationships with industry partners, including wholesalers, contractors and engineers. She is also tasked with educating customers on new and existing products within the NIBCO and Webstone product line. 

Additionally, Gibert is the Women of ASPE chair for the local Indianapolis ASPE board, the DEI chair on the Indianapolis American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers board, and a member of the Greater Indianapolis Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors and Associates and the Mechanical Contractors Association of Indianapolis

Prior to her graduation from Ball State University, Gilbert had no knowledge of the PHCP industry or plans to enter it — until she discovered NIBCO at a career fair. Ultimately, the company’s sales trainee program is what secured her commitment, along with the possibility of making a long-term career at NIBCO.

Being awarded large-scale projects in the city where she was raised is incredibly rewarding for Gilbert. “It is a privilege to see NIBCO products in the buildings changing our city’s skyline,” she says.

When she joined NIBCO as a sales trainee, Gilbert was provided a mentor, Olivia Swinehart, who has continued to be an asset to her. Gilbert says her assistant regional manager, Dane Badgero, has also played a large role in her success at NIBCO. She has also enjoyed mentoring a few sales trainees.

Gilbert feels recruiting and retaining young professionals starts by getting in front of them before they choose their career to showcase everything PHCP offers. From there, she says it is the company’s responsibility to support participation in industry associations and create a supportive work environment.

“This industry offers so many opportunities for growth, so find your interests and hone in on them,” Gilbert advises newcomers. 

Nathan Heitzinger
Plumbing Engineer, SmithGroup

Nathan Heitzinger coordinates with owners, architects and contractors to design, engineer and document different plumbing systems for healthcare, higher education, workplace, science and technology, and multifamily residential facilities. He is also a member of the Phoenix chapter of ASPE. 

Heitzinger has four young children with his wife and loves spending time with them and exploring the Sonoran Desert. He describes himself as a “hands-on, detail-oriented tinkerer at heart.”

After almost nine years in the automotive industry (including several high-risk startups), Heitzinger found himself needing something a bit more stable. After initially pursuing a mechanical engineering position, he began to be drawn to plumbing engineering instead. He enjoys the opportunity to directly affect the building user interface via plumbing fixtures, as well as the opportunity to enable water conservation (a precious commodity in the desert).

Heitzinger has served as the plumbing lead for great projects with clients who share a desire for innovation, such as the Mountain Park Health Center’s Glendale clinic, where a large portion of the roof drains into a cistern that irrigates the landscaping. 

He has had several great mentors at SmithGroup, including Lowell Manalo, who is “a great source of encouragement and knowledge.” Heitzinger’s goal is to give back — at minimum — what has been given to him. “I am always looking to improve my mentoring and coaching skills,” he says. “This doesn’t always come easy to engineers, but I’m looking to break the mold!”

Heitzinger thinks the industry needs to combat the false perception of being “low-tech” to attract young people and emphasize innovation in design. He advises newcomers to “push the envelope” while learning from previous generations. “Build on the advancements of your predecessors rather than reinventing the wheel wherever possible,” he says. 

Leslie Jones
Business Development, Dodson Valco

Leslie Jones’ role at Dodson Valco is all about building and maintaining relationships by adding value and providing solutions to new and existing customers. “People buy from people, and you can’t sell without developing connections and trust,” she says. 

With a family full of salespeople in the PVF industry, Jones experienced first-hand the reward of hard work and the importance of serving others. Her first job in the industry was with a distributor in the Southeast, signing on as a sales trainee, starting in the warehouse and working from inside to outside. 

One career highlight of hers is completing two mission trips with an earlier employer to Tanzania, Africa, where she worked with an orphanage to assist in repairs and build a school. 

Jones feels companies can offer internship and sales training programs to attract and keep new talent. “Adapting to the generational changes and catering to their professional needs also makes our industry more attractive,” she says. 

“One misconception is that our industry is archaic, but over the years it has been great to see companies adapt to technology and integrate that into the PVF industry,” Jones says. “One such example is introducing the use of e-commerce. This is a significant transformation, as I remember when customers would fax in purchase orders.”

She advises industry newcomers to be “sponges” and soak up all the knowledge they can. Additionally, “when given an opportunity such as moving your life across the country, take it, because it could open many doors for your success,” Jones says. 

Clayton Lane
President, James Lane Mechanical

Clayton Lane leads a team of more than 100 in delivering HVAC, plumbing and fire protection services. His role includes strategic planning, overseeing operations, ensuring safety and fostering employee development. Lane is a member of several industry organizations as well as The Mavericks of Wichita Falls, a nonprofit group dedicated to promoting the city and supporting other organizations through cooking events. 

After graduating college, Lane approached his dad about working in the family business but was advised to gain experience elsewhere first. Lane took this advice and spent six months working in the field at Capstone Mechanical in Waco, Texas. He says this experience gave him a deeper appreciation for the industry and allowed him to earn respect by working his way up from the ground level.

Clayton’s proudest career highlights include obtaining all the required licenses and certifications needed to run a diverse company in two different states. He has his commercial air-conditioning license, master plumbing license, fire sprinkler inspector license (NICET III) and fire sprinkler design license (NICET III) in Texas and Oklahoma.

“As a third-generation business, I look up to how much my father grew the company and expanded its services,” Lane says. “He left a legacy of a company and big shoes to fill, but luckily he is still around for me to lean on when I run into complex issues.” 

Rick Tullis of Capstone Mechanical is another mentor for Lane. “He made me memorize the refrigeration cycle before I could work for him,” Lane notes. Mentorship is also a core aspect of Lane’s leadership approach, and he is deeply committed to guiding and developing employees.

“We need to better embrace technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality to connect with young professionals in innovative ways,” Lane says. “It’s also essential to offer a comprehensive benefits package that makes this a career they can take pride in.”

He advises industry newcomers to “always be consuming. Read code books, listen to podcasts, take classes, find a mentor to take you under their wing — take in as much as possible.”

John Mullen
Director of Technical Service and Research,
International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials 

A plumbing and mechanical subject matter expert with 20 years of diverse leadership experience in the construction industry, John Mullen joined the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials in 2022. In his role, he monitors and conducts innovation projects and provides technical expertise to the uniform codes. Mullen also serves as technical liaison to the Radiant Professionals Alliance. 

As a father, he hopes to continue to make the trades a safe and available option for all.

Mullen is a fourth-generation plumber who spent years working with his dad and grandfather on projects. “When I met my wife at age 17, it was clear to me I could make an honest living in the industry and build a life that I could be proud of,” he says. 

Career highlights for Mullen include being a published author and technical columnist for industry publications and periodicals, as well as the ability to serve as a passionate volunteer and advisor for various committees and organizations.

Mullen’s goal through the media brand “Throw a wrench in your plans” is to empower and inspire young tradespeople and skilled professionals by creating impactful digital media content on skilled trades and early technology adoption. “Mentorship is one of the greatest gifts we can give another human, so reach back and pull someone up — it’s contagious,” he says. 

He believes reducing the stigma of a construction worker is paramount in recruiting and retaining young professionals in the industry, and he has crafted his messaging to convince parents that a career in the trades is not only lucrative but noble.

“Where most seem concerned, I am excited about future generations of tradespeople,” Mullen says. “I often hear the struggle with recruitment and retention as we hire within the age group of late teens and mid-twenties. Children dream of being construction workers, emergency personnel and heroes to their communities. Those dreams change, but we as an industry can help guide those dreams by putting tools back in classrooms and providing accessible experiences for all.”

Shashwat Nath
Senior Product Manager, Watts Water Technologies

In his role at Watts, Shashwat Nath manages the mixing valves, relief valves, hydronics, electric radiant and hydronic radiant categories. He handles new product development, revenue and profitability. Nath says it’s great to be recognized for this honor, and it’s all because of the amazing people he works with who make him a better person every day.

Nath used to work in the HVACR industry, which he says is close, but not exactly the same as what he is doing now. When the opportunity came to switch gears, he realized it would be a great chance to continue learning. “At the same time, water is essential for our survival as a species, so it’s awesome to have a larger mission,” he says. 

“I’ve been part of one of the most dynamic teams working on some of the coolest technologies in the industry,” Nath says. Recently, he was a part of the team that launched IntelliStation 2, Watts’ next-generation digital mixing valve, as well as the company’s commercial relief valves with leak detection and the IntelliFlow — a Wi-Fi-connected washing machine valve.

To better recruit and retain young professionals, Nath feels the industry needs to talk about its greater mission. “We provide clean, safe drinking water, which is taken for granted by a lot of people,” he says. “Every time I open the faucet, I now think about how long of a journey that water has made and how many people were involved in ensuring it’s safe and clean.”

He advises industry newcomers to open themselves to new experiences and technologies. “This industry will be unrecognizable in the next 15 to 20 years, and you can drive the change,” Nath says. 

Cory Samuelson
Director of Engineering, Lean, and Training,
GF Building Flow Solutions Americas (formerly Uponor)

Cory Samuelson leads a department that supports GF Building Flow Solutions Americas’ PEX extrusion/packaging business by training new manufacturing employees; supporting, improving and developing manufacturing processes; and partnering with the research and development team to create new products. His key responsibility is to ensure his teams have the resources needed to focus on safety, quality, delivery, cost and continuous improvement. 

Samuelson says his wife and two children fully support his career and are a constant reminder of what’s truly important in life.

In 2018, Samuelson started his PHCP career when he joined Uponor as a manufacturing engineering manager. He has since found the industry to be “full of people and organizations committed to making quality products and continuously searching for better ways to do things.” 

A career highlight for Samuelson was leading a team through the uncertainty and unprecedented demand of COVID-19. “We quickly found a new way to work and support each other — and ultimately persevered,” he says.

He has had multiple industry mentors who have taught him about the importance of discipline, robust processes, accountability and concise communication. Over the years, Samuelson has mentored young engineers on how to use data to tell a story and solve problems. 

One thing Samuelson thinks could help with recruiting and retaining young professionals is greater awareness of the importance of the industry. “Other industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical devices, etc., have so much exposure due to consumer usage, advertising and life-saving technology,” he says. “I believe many things within the PHCP industry are taken for granted.”

“My advice to someone entering the PHCP industry would be to first visualize the world without it,” Samuelson says. “Imagine not having essentials like safe drinking water, proper ventilation, heat sources in the winter, etc. Next, understand how your organization fits into the industry and how it contributes. Finally, understand how your position contributes to the success of your organization. Regardless of your position, you can start to appreciate how your job makes the world better.”

Ryan Smith
Vice President, Sierra Mountain Pipe & Supply

Ryan Smith’s role at Sierra Mountain Pipe & Supply (SMPS) encompasses a blend of leadership, operational management, estimating, sales and strategic planning. As a board member of the Contractors Association of Truckee Tahoe (CATT), he also works alongside fellow leaders to advocate for the trades, promote best practices and support the next generation of professionals. 

Since watching his grandparents work in the industry as a kid, it’s all Smith has wanted to be a part of. With a deep-rooted passion for the construction trades and a commitment to excellence, he has dedicated his career to not only growing their business but also fostering meaningful relationships with clients, partners and the community. 

“I saw the foundation and life this industry provided our family, and I knew I could carry on the legacy and grow,” Smith says.

Throughout his career, he has had vertical growth within the company in different positions. Continuing to grow sales year after year is another career highlight for Smith. SMPS has also been nominated for Supplier of the Year three times through CATT, winning in 2022.

He feels that to recruit and retain young professionals, the industry should promote its stability and opportunities, leverage new technology with a generation being raised in tech, and collaborate with educational institutions to promote career opportunities.

“The ability to learn something new every day continues to surprise me,” Smith says. “We have people with years and years in this industry who get challenged and taught something new on a daily basis.” 

He encourages industry newcomers to continue to show up every day curious and eager to ask questions. “Put your time in — it’s worth it,” Smith says. 

Jaime Stolis
Plumbing Operations Manager,
Bill Howe Plumbing, Heating & Air, Restoration & Flood As the leader of a dynamic team of more than 60 technicians, service managers and sales professionals, Jaime Stolis manages a department that handles more than 225 daily calls. Her primary focus is optimizing operational efficiencies while ensuring her team remains aligned with Bill Howe’s core values. 

Her entry into the PHCP industry was unexpected. Stolis initially worked in food manufacturing and only joined the family business to temporarily assist before transitioning into a career in advertising and communications. However, she quickly discovered that she enjoyed working with tradespeople and meeting customers’ needs. 

One of her proudest achievements includes launching Bill Howe’s own trade school, which helps the company create new jobs as it continues to grow. Stolis has also played a key role in expanding service offerings, driving innovations such as family plans and establishing a dedicated sales department.

Her parents have been incredibly influential to Stolis as mentors, as well as the company’s now-retired general manager, Bill Haws. She also takes great pride in helping others grow and achieve their professional goals. 

“To effectively recruit and retain young professionals, we need to take a thoughtful approach to finding the right candidates and, once we do, recognize them as individuals with unique lives, interests and professional aspirations,” Stolis says. “Focusing on employee appreciation, providing clear career opportunities, promoting work-life balance and supporting physical and mental health are all essential factors in creating an environment where employees feel valued and motivated.”

She recommends that industry newcomers persevere when things get tough, seek out training opportunities and maintain open communication with their management. “Don’t hesitate to discuss your ambitions and, most importantly, embrace your individuality,” Stolis says. “Your unique perspective and drive can be your greatest assets in this industry.”

Brittainy Tidwell
Plumbing Engineering Manager, Huitt-Zollars

Brittainy Tidwell is a licensed mechanical engineer and does plumbing design for architecture and engineering firm Huitt-Zollars. She manages a team of plumbing engineers and designers in Texas and Colorado, doing design work nationwide for multiple industries, including federal, transportation, manufacturing and commercial buildings. Outside of work, Tidwell’s hobbies include teaching yoga, painting and gardening.

When she graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering, Tidwell decided the building design industry was a great place to learn to incorporate sustainable design practices. “Plumbing system design, in particular, gives me an opportunity to build critical infrastructure in a way that is safe and sustainable,” she says. 

Tidwell was recently elected the Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) ASPE Chapter’s president — a major career highlight and an exciting challenge for her.

Some of her mentors include project managers at Huitt-Zollars and other leaders in the DFW ASPE chapter. 

“I have found that the most positive eras in my career have come when I have supportive mentors, so fostering those relationships is a priority in my life,” Tidwell says. “Positive relationships are the key to engaging and retaining young professionals. Whether it’s a group at your office, a professional organization or a structured mentor program, having peers and mentors will make a huge difference in your success and enjoyment of your career.” 

She believes staying curious is key to improving design skills and achieving success.

“There seems to be a sense that as a professional in a technical field, you need to have the answers for everything,” Tidwell says. “In reality, we are all learning and overcoming new challenges every day, and there isn’t always one ‘correct’ answer for a design problem. There will be a lot of emails and meetings in your future, so enjoy the opportunities for creative problem-solving and learning along the way.”