Articles by Kristen R. Bayles

Meet 2025 Next Gen All-Star: Michael Caruso

This year’s group of NextGen All-Stars is full of young talent in the trades who are making a difference in the world every day. These innovators and leaders are forging the path for the next generation. Congratulations to this group of industry leaders in our Top 20 Under 40 list of plumbing professionals!

Building codes are becoming stricter, carbon targets are becoming law, and there’s more funding available for compliance. For those in plumbing and mechanical trades, system design now involves meeting emissions goals, leveraging incentives, and navigating changing regulations.

The facility is poised to strengthen both the local community, and the broader industry. It is a centralized hub for production, and for Viega customers to learn and train. 

After ten years in the culinary industry, Lucas DePerry decided to switch things up and pursue a career in plumbing. 

It’s about clarity and consistency. Are your techs empowered to say no to unreasonable requests? Do they feel supported when a client pushes back? Do your customers understand the value behind your pricing, and the fact that your team isn’t just delivering a service, they’re delivering their skill, time and care?

Slip-and-fall accidents are among the most common liability claims in winter, according to AAA. Winter storms have cost billions of dollars in insured losses, just in the past few years. For businesses, that’s a major issue. In healthcare facilities where patient safety and uninterrupted access are non-negotiable, the stakes are even higher. Radiant snow melt systems can eliminate surface ice before it becomes a hazard, dramatically reducing legal exposure.

Hybrid systems offer a critical bridge in the transition from fossil fuel reliance to full electrification. For contractors working in colder climates or retrofitting older homes, all-electric heat pump systems can be a tough sell. Hybrid units, however, deliver measurable emission reductions while preserving consistent output and adaptability.

Plumbing and mechanical professionals bear more responsibility than often recognized. They ensure building safety, function, and peace of mind for occupants. Every installation, service, or check involves managing expectations, reducing risks, and building trust.

The pandemic's slowdowns are over, but new challenges have emerged, including geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and fluctuating tariffs, highlighting the risks of relying on offshore manufacturing.