ONTARIO, Calif. — The Radiant Professionals Alliance (RPA), formerly the Radiant Panel Association, has reached an agreement with the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) wherein IAPMO will acquire key RPA assets, pending ratification of the agreement by the RPA membership. The RPA board has voted to recommend that membership support the agreement for the expanded benefits it will promulgate on behalf of the industry.

Aided by the assets acquired, IAPMO will be able to service the industry needs of the RPA membership as IAPMO does for the plumbing, mechanical, swimming pool, spa, hot tub, and solar industries, said IAPMO. The manufacturers, distributors, designers, dealers, and installers of radiant panel heating and cooling systems and components that are presently members of the RPA will have the opportunity to join IAPMO. According to IAPMO, with IAPMO radiant panel industry members will take part in an expanded scope of activity symbolized by an updated logo created by IAPMO.

IAPMO stated that incoming members will immediately have the tenure of their RPA membership recognized in good standing by IAPMO, as well as receiving the added advantage of becoming IAPMO members, with accompanying benefits including:

• A role in shaping the codes that govern the design, installation, methods, and materials employed by the plumbing, mechanical and solar systems in homes and businesses;

• Access to a team of technical experts to provide answers and analysis;

• Access to a team of education and certification professionals utilizing contemporary delivery systems;

• Professional publications delivering timely news and critical technical information;

• Expanded networking opportunities; and

• Enhanced visibility for the Radiant Professionals Alliance worldwide.

IAPMO’s desire to advance the mission of the RPA members after the RPA ceases to exist, and to maintain the services to which they have been accustomed is perceived as a win-win for the membership of both associations, said IAPMO.

Kathleen Mihelich IAPMO director of program development has been named to lead the new industry segment within IAPMO out of IAPMO’s Chicago office in Mokena, Ill.

Publication date: 12/26/2011