I’ve traveled quite a bit during my five-plus years with BNP Media — first covering the HVAC industry, and now plumbing.

On Tuesday, August 27, American Standard, part of LIXIL Americas, will host a group of industrious female campers (girls ranging 6-16 in age) from Tools & Tiaras, an organization dedicated to advancing the interest of young girls and women who want to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated trade professions.

With the job market in flux, younger Americans are trying to avoid an education that comes with a massive amount of debt.

The days when a business owner could place a “help wanted” ad in the local newspaper and secure a bunch of applicants are long gone.

I have seen and experienced a large number of events, situations and changes in my career, which includes many years in the plumbing industry with a family of more than 20 plumbers and having my own master’s license since 1976.

The phrase “Hire a veteran” has been a staple of the U.S. economy for decades. Business leaders already realize that military veterans are hard workers, team players, ethical, driven and technically skilled. What they may not realize are the 10 hidden reasons that make every veteran a great employee and future business leader.

The student recipients will receive a $3,500 award and up to six awards will be granted.

Just over 10 years ago, when I graduated from college with my shiny new journalism degree in hand, never in a million years did I think I would be writing about the skilled trades — first HVAC, now plumbing.

This inaugural nationwide program will recognize students at hundreds of SkillsUSA chapter high schools across the country for their dedication to pursue a career in residential wiring, building trades and renovations, HVAC or plumbing.