Next Gen All Star: Billy McDaniel

Top 20 Under 40 Plumbing Professional

2024 NextGen ALL-STARS Top 20 under 40 Billy McDaniel — *Image courtesy of Billy McDaniel*

How long have you been in the PHCP-PVF industry?

BM: I started in the construction industry in high school taking wood shop. The instructor was also a general contractor and had me working on demolition and new construction on weekends. I found this extremely rewarding. In fact, my freshman year of high school, I was able to join a small construction crew to build a home for a needy family in Mexico. It was neat seeing the joy in the family’s eyes when we handed the father the keys.

What drew you into the industry?

BM: I was drawn to the trades, particularly plumbing, after I graduated high school in 2020. This was when the COVID-19 pandemic started. I was lucky enough to be hired as an apprentice for a local plumbing contractor who taught me new construction, both residential and commercial.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?

BM: Working outside and problem-solving repairs. In addition, I am paid very well and am always busy. I reside in the same town that I was born and raised in. I am happy to give back to the community, which I love.

What motivates you every day?

BM: I am saving to buy a house. As well as my own business in the industry. Also, customers need my expertise in our small community, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I am proud to be dependable, knowledgeable and fair. Customers can count on me!

What is one thing you wish more people knew/understood about the PHCP-PVF industry?

BM: That I am only one guy. That plumbing repair, either domestic water supply and/or wastewater service connection, sometimes needs investigating and problem-solving to fix it right the first time. I mean, what is on paper doesn’t mean that’s always the case.

What has been the proudest moment in your career so far?

BM: Being promoted to Field Supervisor and having my own crew at such a young age.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

BM: My age. I am 22 years old.

Why he was chosen as a Next Gen All Star Top 20 Under 40 winner:

“Billy is 22 years old and an incredibly hard worker. During his senior year of high school, the COVID-19 pandemic happened. Billy was not able to attend college as originally planned. Billy accepted a plumber's position as an apprentice, quickly learning and growing to field supervisor, consistently meeting and exceeding the plumbing needs within the community, including new construction, both commercial and residential, all the way to simple fixture replacements and/or plumbing repairs. Billy is a ‘Next Generation All-Star’ because he is a rare find in this industry, for his age. Please give him favorable consideration. Billy is dependable, creative, motivated and honest. His work and professionalism are something to be celebrated, valued and very much deserving of this award.” — Kristina Roberts

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Nicole Krawcke is the former Chief Editor of Plumbing & Mechanical and PM Engineer magazines. She covered the HVAC and plumbing industries for BNP Media. She has more than 15 years of writing and editing experience and holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Michigan State University.