Articles by Kristen R. Bayles

The PHCP-PVF industry has been fighting stereotypes for decades. Though the world seems to be coming around, and more people are recognizing the opportunities available in the trades, it hasn’t happened without a fight. And it certainly hasn’t happened overnight. That makes this contest, recognizing the people who decided to dedicate their careers — their life — to this industry, all the more important.

Casey Welch once thought home services might be a stop on the way to something more glamorous. Nearly 16 years later, she’s using creativity to make the trades stand out, generate opportunities for technicians and encourage more women to enter the field.

Justin Taylor grew up following his father through the supply house and always expected PHCP-PVF to become his career. Thirteen years later, he’s channeling that early connection and a competitive spirit into sales and lasting industry relationships.

Tyson Chen found his way into the trades through a chance meeting, but stayed for the people and the opportunity to help independent contractors use AI to improve customer service and grow their businesses.

Brock Seis followed his father into plumbing, but at just 24, he’s already carving out a path of his own. Through Elevated Plumbing, he’s building a business around craftsmanship, problem-solving, and work that protects his customers.

From riding along in service trucks as a child to leading the family business, Adam Meny is carrying a plumbing legacy forward while creating opportunities for the next generation.

Cody McLeod grew up watching his father build a plumbing business. Two decades later, he’s carrying that legacy forward through a company of his own, with a focus on developing people, raising industry standards and creating lasting careers.

One plumbing client introduced Jen McKee to the trades. Today, she’s helping home service businesses use social media to showcase their people, build customer trust, and tell the stories behind their brands.

After nearly two decades in PHCP-PVF, Matthew Liber has learned that successful distribution comes down to more than having the right products. It takes technical knowledge, dependable service and relationships built to last.

Amelia Kittson grew up in the family business she now leads. As KIE Supply’s third-generation president, she’s balancing a 70-year legacy with the responsibility to create opportunities, earn trust, and position the independent company for its next generation.