2026 Next Gen All-Star: Garrett Kline
Craftsmanship passed to the next generation
Garrett Kline has been in and around plumbing since he was six years old. His grandfather owned a plumbing company, and from the first time Kline helped him, he knew plumbing was what he wanted to do.
Now, with 11 years officially in the industry, Kline has built a career around solving problems for customers and keeping the plumbing systems in his community functioning.
His experience spans residential and commercial plumbing, from modern installations to the challenges of older systems throughout the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. At Clarksburg Plumbing, Kline has earned a reputation for diagnosing complex problems and finding solutions rather than settling for the quickest fix.
“Garrett also possesses a calm, steady demeanor that sets him apart,” said Katie Byrd, CEO and master plumber at Clarksburg Plumbing. “Whether faced with a difficult customer, an unexpected challenge in the field, or a complicated plumbing system, he approaches every situation with professionalism and confidence.”
One challenge that stands out for Kline was an overnight commercial high-rise project involving more than 300 apartment units. With Kline in charge, the system had to be shut down and drained so a valve and leaking copper pipe could be replaced.
“I needed to have the water on by 5 a.m. without problems — this required all of my skills that I had accumulated from my mentors and field experience,” Kline said.
Today, Kline pays it forward by mentoring junior technicians and apprentices.
“One of Garrett's greatest strengths is his willingness to invest in others,” said Byrd. “He has become a respected mentor for our junior technicians and apprentices, leading by example and reinforcing the importance of integrity, professionalism, and craftsmanship. He teaches that plumbing is more than repairing pipes — it's protecting public health, serving customers with excellence, and taking pride in work that will last for years to come. His influence is helping shape the next generation of plumbers.”
His motivation is straightforward: providing for his family and becoming better each day.
“Garrett represents everything our industry should celebrate in its next generation of leaders,” Byrd said. “He is technically skilled, humble, hardworking, and committed to mentoring others while raising the standard of our profession.”
Outside of plumbing, Kline channels his discipline into another demanding pursuit. He has a passion for striking martial arts, particularly boxing and Muay Thai.
Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!
