The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors — National Association (PHCC) welcomed PHCC members, chapter executives, and corporate partners to Washington, D.C., May 16-17, to meet with lawmakers and educate them on energy, economic, and workforce policies that are important to the industry and consumers.

Before heading to Capitol Hill as industry experts, members first heard from political expert Charlie Cook, who was the keynote speaker for the event. Cook spoke on the current political landscape, lessons from the 2022 midterms, and predictions for 2024.

After hearing from Cook, the group was briefed by PHCC Legislative Affairs Director Mark Valentini, PHCC Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chuck White, and a panel of other industry lobbyists. Panelists included Jim Collura, vice president and director of government affairs for the National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI); Steve Rossi, vice president of advocacy for the American Supply Association (ASA); and Robert Wolfer, manager of government relations for Bradford White Corp (PHCC Strategic Partner). That evening, the group attended a reception in the historic Caucus Room of the Cannon House Office Building. This reception was held in conjunction with the Heating Air-conditioning and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) and the Air-conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). Members of Congress stopped by to network with members of PHCC and these other industry groups.

The next morning during breakfast, attendees heard insights from a second Washington Insider panel consisting of Craig Brightup, chief executive officer of the Brightup Group LLC; Matt Kiessling, senior director of state affairs for the American Gas Association (AGA); and Christopher Lindsay, vice president of government relations for the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO – PHCC Supporting Sponsor). After a quick stop for a picture on the Capitol steps, they headed to their respective meetings. In total, 71 PHCC members from 27 different states had 111 meetings with elected officials and their staffs. At a closing roof-top reception that evening, members spoke in-depth about how much they valued the in-person meetings on Capitol Hill, in addition to getting to participate in the rest of the sessions as a part of this two-day event.

“The 2023 PHCC Legislative Conference was an extremely valuable event for all who attended,” said PHCC — National Association President Dave Frame. “Besides the very beneficial one-on-one meetings with legislators, the conference was a great opportunity for PHCC members to connect with each other and with others in the industry supply chain. Together, we are able to accomplish so much more on behalf of our members, the industry, and society.”

The conference was sponsored by PHCC Corporate Partner Federated Insurance. Next year’s event will be May 21-22, 2024.