Indeed, the group of industry leaders spent the day exploring ways to better collaborate on crucial industry initiatives, namely regulatory issues, advocacy, workforce development, education and training, and sustainability.

Regulatory updates – particularly trends in decarbonization/electrification – were a key takeaway for Summit participants. Chuck White, national vice president of regulatory affairs, PHCC, led a discussion on how PHCC and its industry partners can work together to ensure contractors and their employees have the information they need to effectively advocate for reasonable regulatory mandates and prepare for upcoming changes.

“The complexity of regulations impacting our industry amplifies the need for collaboration on advocacy efforts and to establish effective communication channels to keep industry professionals informed to ensure compliance,” he said.

During the Summit, attendees discussed how to set contractors up with financing options for customers interested in purchasing new HVAC equipment. Other topics included how manufacturers can help develop information on heat pump water heaters (the benefits of new products, when to expect return on investment, etc.) for contractors to pass on to customers as well as how they can improve hands-on training opportunities through PHCC state and local chapters.

In the area of workforce development, several PHCC partners and sponsors shared some transformative efforts, including supporting an apprentice program for at-risk female high school students, working directly with school guidance counselors to promote the trades, and more.

“While workforce challenges are not new to this industry, it remains the No. 1 concern for PHCC members,” said Elicia Magruder, vice president of business development, PHCC. “PHCC and the PHCC Educational Foundation have numerous resources available to help our chapters and members promote careers in the trades, but we still need to do more to ensure a continuous pipeline of skilled workers.”

Of the event, Randy Roberts, vice president of residential, Rheem, said, “Manufacturers can’t be successful unless we hear and respond to the challenges and needs of our customers. PHCC’s Industry Summit took that up a level, allowing us to engage with contractors, suppliers, and other manufacturers to focus on the current issues our customer base is experiencing and identify how we can all help each other to support and advance our industry.”

PHCC already is building on the energy and commitment exhibited during the Summit, moving to implement many of the solutions discussed as well as making arrangements for its next Industry Summit.

“The ideas shared serve as a strong foundation for future collaboration among PHCC, the PHCC Educational Foundation, and our industry partners,” said Frame. “By working together, we can address industry challenges, foster growth, and ensure a prosperous future for the plumbing and HVACR industry.”

For more information, visit www.phccweb.org.