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Plumbing & Mechanical ContractorPlumbing & Mechanical Engineer

10 Influential Women of 2026 in the Plumbing Industry

Crystal Carter, Executive Director, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Louisiana

By Kristen R. Bayles, Associate Editor
Crystal Carter
Photo courtesy of Crystal Carter
March 8, 2026

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.

Meet all of the Influential Women of 2026

Crystal Carter

Executive Director, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Louisiana

 

1. How long have you been in the industry?

I’ve spent more than 18 years in the association industry, and I’ve had the privilege of serving the plumbing and mechanical community since 2014. I began with the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Louisiana (PHCCLA) as an Association Coordinator and was appointed Executive Director in 2021 while continuing to support other association clients as the vice president of an association management company. Effective January 1, 2026, PHCCLA transitioned to a full-time Executive Director model, and I’m honored to continue in that role - working side-by-side with our leadership to strengthen our association, elevate the profession, and support the next generation of the workforce.

 

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

I love being a part of the solution - helping move our industry forward in real, measurable ways. Whether it’s growing the workforce, expanding training and support systems, or advocating for contractors and the communities they serve, I love the challenge of turning opportunities into action. I’m fortunate to work alongside dedicated volunteer leaders and an incredible network of peers who continually ask, “Is this the best we can do?” In our world, the answer is almost always, “Not yet.” That desire to keep raising the bar is what drives me. I genuinely love this industry - its people, its grit, and its impact on everything we depend on in everyday life.

 

3. What do you wish more people understood or knew about the plumbing industry?

I wish more people understood just how skilled, technical, and essential plumbing and mechanical professionals truly are. These careers demand years of training, hands-on experience and a commitment to safety – this industry protects public health and keeps homes, businesses and communities running. The trades are not a “backup plan.” They are a high-impact profession with real opportunity and purpose. My hope is that as we continue to invest in workforce development and elevate the visibility of our craft, the next generation will see these careers as something to aspire to so that one day it’s completely normal to hear a child say, “I want to be a plumber when I grow up.”

KEYWORDS: Influential Women of the Year in the Plumbing Industry Women in Plumbing Women in the Trades

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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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