Women in Plumbing: Beth Dobkin, Quality Service Contractors

Photo courtesy of Beth Dobkin

As we celebrate Women’s History Month and Women in Construction Week, Plumbing & Mechanical is shining the spotlight on 10 influential women who are leading the plumbing industry to great success.

Beth Dobkin

Director, Quality Service Contractors, an enhanced service group of the National Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC)

How long have you been in the industry?

I started in 1978 as a bookkeeper for a large plumbing construction company. After many different roles, I became a business owner in 1989 then after selling our business I became a business coach in 2005.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your career in PHCP-PVF?

Each day, I am rewarded by witnessing plumbers and HVAC mechanics represent the trades with professionalism and pride. Being able to coach these highly skilled and enthusiastic people and seeing them accomplish their goals is an honor and a privilege.

What do you wish more people understood/knew about the plumbing industry?

The trades are honorable and attractive professions. I wish the general population truly understood the time, investment and commitment required to develop trade skills, acquire the knowledge to run a profitable business, and cultivate the communication skills necessary to effectively collaborate with teams and engage with customers. Only through this understanding will tradespeople be fully acknowledged for their value and essential role in our society.

Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!

Natalie Forster is the director of communications for the American Supply Association (ASA), where she leads the association's public and media relations strategy, social media efforts, and member-focused online and print communications. Prior to joining ASA, she was the Editorial Director of Plumbing & Mechanical and Supply House Times. Before that, she served as an editor and digital content director for Southern Trade Publications, a publishing company focused on the PHCP trades and real estate industries. Natalie holds a bachelor's degree in communication studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.