Technology for Contractors

ECI Software Solutions Launches Field Service Technician AI Assist

The program enables AI troubleshooting in GlobalEdge.

May 25, 2026

AI Assist aims to help standardize troubleshooting across teams by giving technicians access to consistent diagnostic guidance within the GlobalEdge mobile app.

Commercial outlook tech looking at pipes

Commercial Market Outlook: Retrofit Projects Lead the Way

Commercial market trends, labor challenges, retrofit demand, and what to prepare for

Kristen R. Bayles

May 25, 2026

As commercial building owners continue to navigate economic uncertainty, labor shortages and changing customer demands, retrofit and renovation work is becoming a key opportunity across the plumbing market. In this article, learn where the commercial market is headed and how manufacturers, wholesalers, and contractors can adapt.

A commercial bathroom with several urinals.

Building Resilience: Why Pressure-Assisted Toilets are Critical for Emergency Preparedness

As water scarcity concerns grow, commercial facilities are increasingly adopting plumbing systems designed for efficiency and reliability.

Mike Gembarski

May 20, 2026

High-efficiency plumbing systems can help facilities conserve water, reduce operational costs, and improve long-term sustainability performance.

The ROI on Smart Water: Do Connected Systems Really Pay Off?

Smart water systems can save money, uncover hidden problems, and create new opportunities for contractors

Kristen R. Bayles

May 19, 2026

Insurance incentives, hidden leaks and operational gains are driving adoption, but the real return on smart water depends on who is measuring it and how.

Leaks Happen. Here’s the ‘Why’ When They Do

From installation to maintenance, here's where and why piping systems are most vulnerable to failure.

Gabe Ellis

May 4, 2026

Let’s take a closer look at the most common causes of leaks — especially in plastic piping systems — during installation, service and maintenance.

A construction worker writing on a clipboard

How Technology Is Redefining Safety on Today’s Jobsites

This Construction Safety Week, we highlight the importance of technology on today's jobsites.

Plumbing & Mechanical Editorial Staff

May 4, 2026

Across plumbing and mechanical jobsites, safety considerations are shaping how tools are designed, how systems behave, and how professionals expect technology to support them in the field.

And So It Flows Podcast

And So It Flows: How AI and Gen Z Are Transforming the Trades

As conversations around artificial intelligence continue to dominate headlines, an equally important shift is happening in the skilled trades.

Kristen R. Bayles

April 23, 2026

In a recent episode of And So It Flows, Roland Ligtenberg, co-founder of Housecall Pro, joined host Kristen Bayles to discuss how AI, changing workforce priorities and evolving technology are driving renewed interest in careers across plumbing, HVAC and other home service trades.

Editorial Opinion | Kristen Bayles

AI can't fix a leak

Why automation may elevate plumbers, and other skilled trades, to the top of the labor market.

Kristen R. Bayles

April 23, 2026

A recent interview with the former CEO of Uber shows that jobs in the trades are on their way to being seen in a new way.

How manufacturers are reframing risk, resilience and return in 2026

In an uncertain market, predictive maintenance and domestic manufacturing are emerging as the new pillars of risk management and competitive strength.

Kristen R. Bayles

April 22, 2026

Bryan O'Toole and Paul Spradling weigh in on the state of the manufacturing market, and what it means for contractors.