There are many things that are certain in life and one of them, unfortunately, is having issues that require the expertise of a plumbing professional. When the need arises, people rely on a plumber to provide services that are performed in a way that is both safe and efficient.
If one is informed that the plumber they are researching is a member of an industry trade organization, they will know that this individual or company has gone the extra mile to ensure they are learning the most up to date safety standards, as well as taking advantage of the educational opportunities and certification programs offered through these associations. By the same token, this is why it is extremely beneficial for anyone involved in the plumbing industry to seriously consider joining a related organization so they can potentially outperform their competition, prove their expertise, and increase their customer base.
Here are a few plumbing trade organizations you may want to consider joining. In addition to national organizations, there are also some regional ones to consider as well:
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC)
Regions:
(USA)
Overview:
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association provides educational, legislative, advocacy, networking, and certification opportunities to thousands of plumbing and HVAC professionals throughout the country.
Established in 1883, PHCC was the driving force behind industry advancement through the establishment of the building blocks that led to the first apprenticeship program. In addition, their focused commitment to
the invention of improved plumbing fixtures and appliances that keep pace with our ever changing technological needs is another important priority.
PHCC’s annual conference, PHCCConnect, will be held in Cleveland, Ohio from October 25-27, 2023.
Membership Details:
Among a multitude of benefits, members can enjoy discounts with a variety of companies that PHCC has partnered with, including ExxonMobil, Home Depot, HD Supply, and US Bank, to name a few.
There are many different levels of membership with some offering local, state and national benefits. Specific details and pricing can be found on their website at https://www.phccweb.org/membership/.
American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE)
Regions:
(USA, Canada, Mexico, Worldwide)
Overview:
The American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) was founded in 1964 and currently has over 7,000 members that span the globe. The main goal of this organization is to be a leading force in the dissemination of information and knowledge, as well as the enhancement of safety measures, within the plumbing engineering industry through sponsored events and networking opportunities among its member professionals. Many of its members are trailblazers in all aspects of the plumbing industry, including design, effective energy use, and the advanced techniques application.
Membership Details:
There are four levels of membership with benefits that include, among other things, subscriptions to top-rated technical manuals and journals, networking opportunities, access to conferences and local chapter meetings, pricing discounts, and professional development programs:
Full Member - $200/Year
Associate Member - $200/Year
Affiliate Member - $200/Year
Student Member - $40/Year
The International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
Regions:
(USA, Canada, Virgin Islands, Fiji)
Overview:
IAPMO members consist of plumbing/mechanical inspectors and contractors, engineers, manufacturers, and professionals who have an interest in maintaining uniform codes throughout the industry.
Some of the main goals of this organization are as follows:
IAPMO Podcast
Membership Details:
There are many benefits to becoming a member of IAPMO, including, but not limited to, discounts on publications, seminars, and conferences; use of member logo on letterhead, business cards, and website; opportunity to serve on organizational committees or become an officer at a local chapter; ability to enact change within the plumbing and mechanical industry as it relates to the code development process.
Additional information can be found on their website: https://www.iapmo.org/
The New England Plumbing, Gas & Mechanical Inspectors Association (NEPGMIA)
Regions:
(Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island, Connecticut)
Overview:
The New England Plumbing, Gas & Mechanical Inspectors Association works to ensure that the overall functionality and safety of the industry is maintained and improved through the development of uniform codes and regulations that are enforced by inspectors.
Organization members attend association meetings in a variety of locations where they are kept abreast of the latest code revisions, legislation, and newest technological innovations.
Membership Details:
There are two levels of membership with the same $30 annual fee, “Active Member” and “Associate Member”. Both memberships include a complimentary New England Inspectors Directory, as well as discounted or free registration to association events.
