PHCC CONNECT 2019, the annual conference for the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors-National Association, heads to Indianapolis Oct. 2-4, to equip PHCP contractors with solid strategies for streamlining processes, harnessing technologies, boosting profitability and building the future workforce.

With this year’s theme “Ready, Set, CONNECT,” the event will take place at The Westin Indianapolis and Indiana Convention Center with two high-caliber keynote speakers, more than 20 educational opportunities, a Product & Technology Showcase, apprentice contests, industry tours and networking opportunities. The conference will conclude with the PHCC leadership installation and closing event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy 500.

“This Old House” plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey will share candid, humorous stories from his experiences on the Emmy Award-winning home improvement television show in the keynote address titled, “Talking Tech in a Non-Tech World.”

Economist Connor Lokar is back again, this time sharing the trends driving business in 2020 and beyond in his talk, “Managing in an Uncertain Economy.”

“From race cars to Hoosier hospitality, Indianapolis has a lot to offer its visitors the same way PHCC CONNECT 2019 has much to offer its attendees,” says PHCC President Ken Nielsen. “Our solutions-oriented event is an opportunity for contractors to get answers to their most pressing concerns, learn how to recruit and retain skilled workers, and discover how new and proven technologies will help increase productivity and profitability,” he adds.

Sessions address hot-button issues

An impressive line-up of industry experts and member contractors will help attendees prepare for what’s next for their businesses. In response to member requests, education sessions will address hot-button issues in business management, leadership, technology, workforce development, advocacy, sales and marketing, and more.

New this year, PHCC will offer recorded sessions to full conference registrants allowing them to listen to sessions they missed or use as training tools for their employees.

A diverse range of exhibitors at the Product & Technology Showcase in the Indiana Convention Center will provide insights on cutting-edge technologies and business strategies specific to p-h-c companies. Plus, attendees can check out the popular plumbing and HVAC apprentice contests underway at the Showcase

Once again, the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society will share select events with PHCC including this year’s Showcase. Other collaborative efforts include a radiant/hydronics education track hosted by the Radiant Professionals Alliance.

Additional education, tours

Specialized learning and networking opportunities are available for service and repair contractors, powered by PHCC’s Quality Service Contractors. Throughout the week attendees will learn how to enhance effective communications, maximize industry partnerships and implement other relevant strategies at Service Contractors Central, operating as a hub for all QSC activity during PHCC CONNECT 2019.

PHCC’s Union-Affiliated Contractors also will offer seminars and a special evening reception for UAC members.

PHCC CONNECT 2019 attendees can sign up for optional industry tours scheduled for Oct. 1— a Delta Design Center tour or a Chemours Support Center tour and training session.

“It’s motivating to see how attendees are leveraging what they learn at CONNECT to become contractors of choice in their respective areas,” says Nielsen. “I encourage those who are not familiar with our annual conference to watch this video and see how CONNECT can help them accelerate their businesses.”

Learn more about CONNECT 2019 at www.phccweb.org/connect.