Next Gen All Star: Saeed Warden

Top 20 Under 40 Plumbing Professional

By Nicole Krawcke

2024 NextGen ALL-STARS Top 20 under 40 Saeed Warden — *Image courtesy of Saeed Warden*

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

SW: I’ve been in the plumbing industry for 21 years.

What drew you into the industry?

SW: I attended a Vo-Tech high school in Bloomfield, New Jersey, where I majored in welding, which introduced me to the ironworkers and sheet metal workers unions. It wasn’t until I joined the Essex County Construction Consortium pre-apprenticeship program in high school that I was introduced to Plumbers Local 24. I knew I could be a welder there, and I would also have a trade that‘s in high demand for maintenance, new construction and renovations.

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

SW: The most rewarding aspect of working in the industry is witnessing my students at Plumbers Local 24 absorb my teaching lesson’s and utilizing that knowledge in the field and maintaining the health of the nation through code enforcement in Princeton, New Jersey.

What motivates you every day?

SW: I’m motivated by innovation, continuing education and evolving in the trade.

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

SW: I wish everyone knew the basic principles of the National Standard Plumbing Code which would assist in maintaining a healthy nation.

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

SW: I would say my proudest moment is today as I’m being recognized for my career as a Union Plumber, Master Plumber, Plumbing Subcode Official and United Association Instructor.

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

SW: One thing that people don’t know is that I’m dedicated to being a lifelong learner.

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

“Saeed is, without a doubt, a true leader in New Jersey's plumbing industry. Saeed started as an apprentice in the Unite Association’s — Plumbers Local 24 in 2003, and upon completion of his apprenticeship, became a master plumber in 2009. He started as an inspector in 2016 and maintains Plumbing HHS, Fire HHS, Subcode and Construction Official Licenses. He is also a certified backflow tester (ASSE 5110) as well as a medical gas system installer and instructor (ASSE 6010 and 6050).

“Saeed gave back to his local community by serving as a volunteer firefighter in his hometown for over 10 years (2008-2019) and is currently the Plumbing Subcode Official in the historic town of Princeton, New Jersey. He is also an active member of the New Jersey Plumbing Inspectors Association. In addition, Saeed serves as an instructor for UA Plumbers Local 24, where he uses his knowledge and skills to train and educate the next generation of plumbers.” — Chris DeMarco

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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.