Next Gen All Star: Max Rohr

By Nicole Krawcke, Natalie Forster, Editorial Director

Max Rohr

AGE: 37

COMPANY: CALEFFI HYDRONIC SOLUTIONS

TITLE: EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY MANAGER

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

MR: If I remember correctly, my dad paid me $10 to tie down a few thousand feet of PEX pipe for a radiant heating project that he was working on when I was seven. That might have been my first cash job. Ages 4-7 were more of a room and board in exchange for work situation.

What drew you into the industry?

MR: I grew up in the family plumbing business, but went to college with the intent of moving into the health care field. After undergrad, I realized that I greatly preferred the hydronics and plumbing world. I came back with a clearer direction and renewed desire to work on sustainability-driven mechanical systems.

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

MR: About 20% of the energy we use in the USA flows through heating, cooling and DHW systems in buildings. We have enormous opportunity to effect change.

What motivates you every day?

MR: When I see the lightbulb go off in a trainee’s mind. Any time I can play even a miniscule role in helping someone do something faster, better, more efficiently or more consistently, it makes me smile.

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

MR: How well we are able to balance energy efficiency and comfort, while hiding 90% of it behind a wall. It is hard to explain how incredible that is to the general public.

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

MR: I’ve been able to do a work-related project on six continents. If anyone wants to do a lunch and learn in Antarctica, let me know.

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

MR: I’m a beekeeper.

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

“Max has a welcoming presence at the head of the class, whether that be a virtual Coffee with Caleffi webinar, hybrid or in-person training session. He has a gift for helping people understand complicated topics in an always professional and encouraging way.” – Mary Olson, marketing director

“Many of the colleagues I’ve been fortunate to work with over 40+ years are close to retiring. So am I. As with many trades, there is not a large pool of talent waiting in the wings to replace those of us with graying hair. Still, a few share a passion for the hydronic industry like us ‘old timers.’ Max Rohr is way up there on my list. He has invested the time to learn the technical side of the industry, and has developed the skills to be an articulate trainer and writer. I’ve had the pleasure of working with him more recently in his role as education and industry engagement manager at Caleffi North America. He has great people skills and continues to gain the respect of others in our industry. I’m confident Max will carry the baton for the hydronic and plumbing industry for years to come and create a lasting and meaningful contribution.” – Industry Icon John Siegenthaler, P.E.

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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.