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Plumbing & Mechanical ContractorPlumbing & Mechanical Engineer

Plumbing & Mechanical Next Gen ALL-STARS

2025 Next Gen All-Star: Nikita Patel

Top 20 Under 40 Plumbing Professional

By Kristen R. Bayles, Associate Editor
Nikita Patel headshot, name, Next Gen ALL-STARS badge on a blue scratch design background.
Image courtesy Gina Vecchione Photography / graphics by BNP Media
September 15, 2025

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Image in modal.

Nikita Patel

AGE: 32

COMPANY: Sherman Engineering Company

TITLE: Sales Engineer

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

I have been in the industry for nearly a decade. I joined Sherman Engineering as a Project Manager in 2016, where I gained a strong foundation in compressed gas and vacuum principles and applications. In 2018, I transitioned into a Sales Engineer role, allowing me to combine the technical knowledge I gained with a more client-focused approach.

What drew you into the industry?

In a way, the industry found me. Prior to joining Sherman Engineering, I worked in several roles within a high-purity tubing and hose manufacturing plant. I quickly realized that a Sales Engineer role offered the perfect balance of what I was looking for: a technically engaging position with strong networking components. Once I joined Sherman Engineering, I never looked back. The industry has everything to offer—cool people and cool products.

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

For me, it is being viewed as a trusted advisor by MEPs. Although I’m a qualified resource for NFPA 99 code, med gas and lab gas design, and other compressed gas and vacuum applications. It is rewarding to know others see me that way, too.

What motivates you every day?

It sounds cliché, but whoever said “do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life” was right. I genuinely enjoy what I do and the customers and colleagues I work with. I don’t really need motivation every day—I just really enjoy working with compressed gas and vacuum solutions (and I’m not only saying that because my boss is going to read this).

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

I volunteer for a program called Pathful Connect, and there’s one sentence you’ll hear me say in almost every session. The word “plumbing” is so misunderstood. When I hear it, I think fluid flow. When those who don’t quite understand the role this industry hear it, they think “toilets”. I tell the students from Pathful often, “It’s not just toilets.”

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

There are two that come to mind. On January 4th, 2023, I learned I passed the PE exam and was officially a licensed engineer. Just a few weeks later, I began my first term on the ASPE Board of Directors as the Young Professionals’ Liaison. Two and a half years later, and I just renewed my PE license for the first time, and I’m serving my second (and last) term as the AYP Liaison.

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

Many people don’t know this, but I have a twin sister! Two fun facts about her are she’s also 32, and she looks a little like me.

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KEYWORDS: awards manufacturers Next Gen All Stars plumbers and pipefitters plumbing industry Top 20 Under 40

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Kristen bayles   headshot 200x200

Kristen R. Bayles is the Associate Editor for Plumbing & Mechanical and Supply House Times. With deep family roots in the plumbing industry and a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Montevallo, Kristen brings a unique perspective to her coverage of industry trends, emerging technologies and business insights for plumbing and HVAC professionals.

Connect with Kristen on LinkedIn or reach her at baylesk@bnpmedia.com.

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