Set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, during the famed International Balloon Fiesta, the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors — National Association’s (PHCC’s) CONNECT 2018 will be held Oct. 10-12 and will deliver a unique 360-degree view of the best paths for business success amid today’s plumbing and HVACR landscape.

During more than 25 educational opportunities, the annual conference and Product & Technology Showcase will equip contractors with the latest strategies for recruiting and retaining workers, streamlining operations, exceeding customer expectations, leveraging technology, and much more.

New this year, CONNECT 2018 will share select events  including the Product and Technology Showcase with the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society’s (RSES’s) Conference & HVACR Technology Expo. Also, IAPMO’s Radiant Professionals Alliance (RPA) members will join PHCC to host a radiant/hydronics education track.

Two well-respected keynoters will headline the educational sessions at CONNECT 2018. Speaker and author Eric Chester will reveal best practices for recruiting, training, managing and motivating young workers to jobs that many of them don’t consider “sexy.” Plus, notable economist Connor Lokar will help business leaders analyze and prepare for the business cycle changes that affect their companies.

In response to member requests, the diverse range of plumbing and HVACR education session topics include workforce development, press technology, jobsite safety, succession planning, employee benefits, customer retention, foolproof marketing and more. Attendees can also attend special service and repair programs, powered by PHCC’s Quality Service Contractors (QSC), an Enhanced Service Group. Service and repair contractors will have a unique opportunity to engage in three days of specialized learning and networking.  

PHCC has also planned balloon rides, a “Breaking Bad” RV tour, a trip to Santa Fe, a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway and more. PHCC encourages CONNECT 2018 attendees to book these optional tours before the July 31 deadline due to limited seating. Early bird registrants also can take advantage of conference and hotel room discounts. Learn more about CONNECT 2018 at www.phccweb.org/connect.