As global economic disruption accelerates during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, leaders in manufacturing, distribution and residential and commercial services are calling attention to overlooked career opportunities.

An instructor for the PHCC of Iowa’s apprentice program since 2009, Schmidt has proven himself to be a dedicated educator committed to the process of recruiting high school students into the trades.

Sell teams up with local high schools to encourage students to consider a career in plumbing.

Thirty students were awarded a total of $55,500 in scholarships funded by the foundation, Gerry Kennedy, Steve and Isabella Schaeffer, Anne Williams, the McGlame-Wordell Scholarship Committee, the PHCC Auxiliary of Texas, the PHCC Auxiliary of Massachusetts and PHCC's Past National Officers; an additional 25 students have received 2020 scholarships thanks to $56,500 in funding provided by several PHCP companies.

This year, the organizations proudly recognized Cory Hoopes of Focus Plumbing in Nevada as the PHCC Plumbing Contractor of the Year, and Ed Zalko, a third-year apprentice with PHCC’s Greater Sacramento Area Plumbing Apprentice Program, as the PHCC Plumbing Apprentice of the Year.

At a time when many buildings are not fully occupied due to COVID-19, AWWA and IAPMO have developed a guide to help building managers address water system stagnation.

Mark Nahorski, president of IMI PBM, was recognized with Person of the Year; and Stephen Szpak, director sales and marketing for Trillium Flow Technologies, was recognized with the Service Award.

Over the course of 31 years, ASHRAE has awarded more than $2.25 million to nearly 500 students.

PHCC presented its HVAC Contractor of the Year award to Howard Arata of Nevada’s HTA Plumbing and Mechanical. HVAC Apprentice of the Year was awarded to Nolan Pridgen, a second-year apprentice in the online HVAC apprentice program through PHCC of North Carolina.

The Safety First! Award recognizes PHCC contractors who take advantage of the resources Federated Insurance offers to effectively implement sound risk management practices.