• First Place: Michael Goldey, Jr. of MSG Plumbing in Levittown, PA. He was sponsored by Rheem.
• Second place: Trevor Nielson of Universal Heating & Plumbing Co. in Las Vegas, NV. He was sponsored by Viega.
• Third Place: Joseph Cuttie of JAC 130 & O’Sullivan Plumbing in Mokena, IL. He was sponsored by Delta Faucet.

Image courtesy of PHCC Educational Foundation.

The plumbing apprentices were required to rough-in a bathroom system. The set-up includes a toilet, sink and shower, complete with supply, waste and vent lines, plus cleanouts and extra features designed to test the contestants’ knowledge and skills. The test set-up includes a variety of pipe materials – cast iron, copper and PVC and corresponding joining methods.

A dedicated team of contractor volunteers arrived two days before the competition to assemble the competitor test benches, distribute the materials and supplies and set up the testing areas. They monitor the competition, evaluate the apprentices’ work and provide constructive feedback on each competitor’s performance following the event.

The contest is made possible by the support of several industry sponsors who provide monetary support and in-kind material and tool donations. Sponsors for the 2026 competition include: AB&I Foundry; A.O. Smith; Bradford White Corp.; Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute (CISPI); Contractor Magazine; Copper Development Association; Delta Faucet Co.; Home Depot Pro; International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO); the International Code Council, Kohler Company; Milwaukee Tool Company; Moen; NIBCO INC.; Oatey; Plumbing & Mechanical Magazine; Rheem HVAC and Water Htg. Division; RIDGID; State Water Heaters; Tyler Pipe & Coupling; Viega; and Zoeller Pump Company.

“Competitions like this are about more than recognizing individual talent; they’re about investing in the future of our industry,” said Foundation Chair Steve Rivers. “The support of our contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, and educators demonstrates the power of bringing our industry together around a common goal. By creating opportunities for apprentices to demonstrate their abilities, learn from one another, and connect with industry leaders, we are helping to strengthen our workforce, encourage innovation, and build a sustainable future for the skilled trades.”

The Foundation’s National HVAC Apprentice Contest was rebuilt in 2026, with the next contest to be conducted during the PHCC of South Dakota state convention in February 2027. That contest will then return to its normal schedule, with a second 2027 contest to be conducted in October during PHCC CONNECT in Fort Worth, Texas.