Next Gen All Star: Eric Truskoski

By Nicole Krawcke, Natalie Forster, Editorial Director

Eric Truskoski

AGE: 39

COMPANY: BRADFORD WHITE

TITLE: VICE PRESIDENT OF ADMINISTRATION AND GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

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

ET: I’ve worked for Bradford White for 17 years which includes 10 years in the engineering department in a variety of capacities, up to and including supervision of our laboratory facilities, lab technicians and product development engineers. For the last seven years, I’ve had the opportunity to lead Bradford White’s government and regulatory affairs efforts, and, most recently, I’ve added legal affairs and intellectual property to my responsibilities.

What drew you into the industry?

ET: I was lucky enough to find Bradford White right after graduating from college. Starting in our engineering department, I had the opportunity to learn under some great engineers, as well as several industry titans. It was through them and Bradford White’s culture that I realized this industry was where I wanted to spend my career. Without their guidance, both past and present, I would not have been able to achieve the success that I have up to this point in my career.

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

ET: The relationships that you are able to develop over time, which transcend when people change companies, change roles or even retire.

What motivates you every day?

ET: My team and our customers. I am privileged to work alongside some of the hardest-working and dedicated people I know in the industry every day. Their commitment to serve our customers, both internally and externally, and advocate for the best interests of Bradford White and those impacted by our products in a rapidly evolving political environment is what keeps me inspired and motivated each day.

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

ET: While those entering the workforce may not recognize the significance of the PHCP-PVF industry, the pandemic showed how critical it is to everyone’s lives and provides a considerable amount of career opportunities that can be very fulfilling.

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

ET: Back in 2015, I was asked to take on a new position for our company, heading up a new government and regulatory affairs department. Beyond taking on a new position in a mostly new area to me, it is the team that I’ve been able to build over the past seven years that brings me the greatest sense of pride. I have watched team members establish themselves as very well-respected representatives for Bradford White Corporation and they continue to grow to support the needs of our department and industry at-large.

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

ET: When I have spare time, I enjoy cooking for my family and friends. While my family loves my jambalaya, I really enjoy using my Traeger smoker for meatloaf, pork belly burnt ends, pork tenderloin, and wings — fan favorites at my house.

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

“Eric Truskoski joined Bradford White as a design engineer in 2006 after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Michigan State University. Eric immediately demonstrated his unique talent, leveraging his expertise in product development and engineering, to become the company’s go-to representative for regulatory issues. His capabilities and commitment were recognized by Bradford White and led to his promotion to engineering manager, gaining increased responsibility.

“In 2016, when Bradford White identified the critical need for an expanded presence to address local, state and federal regulatory matters, Eric was the obvious candidate to lead this essential work. Under his leadership, he has built and transformed the company’s government and regulatory affairs capabilities and continues to play a pivotal role in advocating the company’s position within the federal, state, and local levels, and within the industry, amid an ever-changing regulatory environment. Additionally, he ensures that Bradford White leadership is apprised on any new legislative or regulatory action that can affect Bradford White’s business or the business of its customers.

“A significant project in which Eric was involved includes managing the largest regulatory transition of our products under NAECA III (April 2010 to April 2015), which affected all water heaters, regardless of fuel type. He is now drawing upon this experience as he begins to direct work for NAECA IV, which will once again be a multi-year, business and industry-changing endeavor.

“Eric’s current priorities include working with industry leaders and regulators to effectively manage the drive toward electrification which will have significant impacts to the environment, manufactures and consumers for generations to come. Eric is also a key member of the leadership team at our manufacturing facility in Middleville, Michigan, and has proven himself again and again to be an expert on all levels of regulation and has earned immense respect inside and outside of Bradford White for his tireless work promoting the interests of our industry.” —Rebecca Owens, senior communications manager, Bradford White Corp.

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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.

Natalie Forster is the Editorial Director of Plumbing & Mechanical and Supply House Times. Prior to joining BNP Media in 2020, she was an editor and digital content director for Southern Trade Publications, a publishing company with titles focused on the PHCP trades and the real estate industry. Natalie holds a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.