In recognition of Plumbing Manufacturers International’s 70th anniversary, the 2024 PMI Annual Report draws lines between the association's "Past, Present and Future," which serves as the report's theme.
Starting with a summary of PMI's history, the report reviews recent accomplishments before describing plumbing manufacturing's efforts to "rethink water" in response to water shortages caused by climate change.
"Over the past 70 years, the resilience and innovative nature of the plumbing manufacturing industry has been very apparent and continues today," says PMI CEO/Executive Director Kerry Stackpole in the report. "These qualities serve us well today, as we work to meet the many challenges facing the industry and society." Stackpole also co-authors a letter introducing the report with 2024 PMI Board of Directors President Chip Way from Lavelle Industries and PMI Immediate Past President Sal Gattone from LIXIL.
Report's content covers rich history, exciting present, and promising future
PMI was born in 1954 as plumbing manufacturing industry pioneers began to see the fruits of their inventiveness lead to commercial success. Post-war America was eager to use their modern innovations in the new homes being built across the nation.
During the subsequent decades, PMI's members adopted and upheld codes and standards relating to fixture fittings, piping, valves and other components. As water and sanitation concerns caused by environmental challenges increased, PMI's members responded by voluntarily creating water-efficient and lead-free products.
To meet current challenges, PMI has broadened its mission of safe, responsible plumbing – always. PMI members are expanding sustainability efforts, developing a diverse, expert workforce, and contributing to efforts to bring better water resources to underserved populations. The report provides examples of this work, as well as other notable happening from the past year.
As much of the world faces urgent water shortages, PMI's members are casting their eyes toward the future in search of new, innovative solutions. They are finding safe ways to reuse water and are reinventing toilets, plumbing systems and more in the quest to use water more efficiently.
An important part of this work is developing the plumbers and other skilled trades workers needed to install and maintain the systems of tomorrow. PMI and its members have established various programs and initiatives to help build this workforce.
As this progress is made, PMI's original work relating to codes and standards remains as vital as ever. "For the last seven decades, PMI members have created and maintained plumbing codes and standards relevant to the challenges of the times," Stackpole stated. "And they've matched their technical expertise with effective advocacy for water efficiency and safe, responsible plumbing. These qualities saw us through the first 70 years and will be our legacy."
Read the 2024 PMI Annual Report at https://www.safeplumbing.org/communications/pmi-annual-report-2024.
