These contests — always a popular attraction on the trade show floor — highlight the skills and expertise of the nation’s top apprentices in the plumbing and HVACR industries and allow attendees to watch the contestants’ progress, a PHCC press release said.

Apprentices from across the country will come together to showcase their expertise and compete for the title of the nation’s top apprentice. The event offers apprentices not only a chance to demonstrate their skills but also an opportunity to network with fellow apprentices and industry professionals.

Plumbing apprentices must rough in a bathroom — including the drain, waste, and vent lines, a toilet, a sink and shower. HVACR apprentices must take a written test, plus demonstrate their skills in brazing, pressure-testing, refrigerant recovery, and diagnosing and repairing a malfunctioning packaged unit system.

The contests begin on the evening of Tuesday, Oct. 8, with a pep rally on the trade show floor. University of Alabama sportscaster Chris Stewart will emcee the event. The contests conclude on Wednesday, Oct. 9, and participants and attendees are invited to celebrate at the awards breakfast on Thursday, Oct. 10.

“We are very proud to sponsor these contests each year,” said Kevin Tindall, PHCC Educational Foundation chairman. “Not only do they provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for star apprentices to demonstrate their skills on a national stage, but the contests also support the foundation’s mission by helping to generate awareness for local apprentice programs, boosting interest in the fields of plumbing and HVAC, and attracting new recruits to the industry.”

For details on Connect 2024, visit phccweb.org/CONNECT. The site offers information on educational sessions, speakers, exhibitors, registration, and hotel reservations, as well as on the many attractions of Birmingham. Register for Connect 2024 here.