Ferguson and Explore the Trades, a nonprofit organization with a mission to recruit individuals to the plumbing, heating, cooling and electrical trades, have partnered to introduce the skilled trades to a new generation. The two organizations came together to create Explore The Trades Skills Lab Built by Ferguson — a program that will provide support to career and technical education high schools across the U.S., as they establish new plumbing and HVAC career pathways. 

Eastern Industrial Supplies announced that its 2021 Eastern Cares Charity Classic was a phenomenal success. All of the net proceeds from the tournament – $71,381.42 – were donated to Teleios Ministry and will be used to house, educate and support the children in the care of the Daily Bread Life Children’s Home in Tanzania.

Milwaukee Tool has added its RLS fitting system to its line of press solutions, FORCE LOGIC. The new RLS ACR Press Jaws for M18 FORCE LOGIC press tools will enable contractors to complete HVAC and refrigeration installations with a flame-free, efficient alternative to traditional brazing, the company notes. 

Cherne Industries, part of the Oatey Co. family of companies, announced the addition of larger test plug sizes within its I-Series line of Test-Ball, Muni-Ball and Air-Loc pipe plugs. I-Series plugs are built using a robotic manufacturing system that delivers quality, consistency and durability, Cherne notes.

The latest people news within the PHCP-PVF industry and supply chain.

Over the past 18 months, I have been in the unique position to hear first-hand how the booming remodel market, supply chain disruptions and material costs are affecting plumbing distributors and showrooms while simultaneously being the end-user customer who’s remodeling her kitchen.

As the industry’s only national trade association, the American Supply Association is uniquely positioned to be the voice of the industry. With that comes the responsibility to want the ball when it comes to advocating positions that will benefit our members and the industry as a whole. 

Family business takes on a new meaning when you walk into Addison, Illinois-based Porter Pipe & Supply. Visitors, longtime customers and brand-new team members alike say they feel a welcoming, family-like energy throughout the company’s locations — no matter which of its five branches you’re in.

The topic of labor, labor shortages and replacing retiring workers isn’t going away anytime soon. Of course, ASA last year launched its PROJECT TALENT careers recruitment initiative aimed at helping our industry replace the 100,000 jobs that will become open because of retirements over the next 10 years.

Shannon will be responsible for creating and executing commercial and mechanical programs for the region’s contractors and improving Northeastern’s engagement into the commercial, mechanical and plumbing market.