Kristen R. Bayles: Editorial Opinion

AI can't fix a leak

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0400

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.

AHR and KBIS/IBS highlighted how AI, efficiency mandates and workforce evolution are converging on the jobsite

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

The conversation has clearly moved beyond connectivity for connectivity’s sake, and into something more actionable; and, with new expectations for energy-efficient and low-carbon systems, more necessary.

Reflections on a year of change: Why the plumbing and mechanical industry continues to deliver

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

To start off the new year, editor Kristen Bayles reflects on 2025, and what's to come in 2026.

Beyond the classroom: finding fulfillment in the trades

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

I'm grateful my family showed my brother the value of trades. After my great-grandfather's plumbing business closed, my dad became a welder and shared his skills with my brother during many afternoons in the work shed, like an apprentice learning from a master.

When competition becomes community

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

People from all over the world came together with a shared purpose: to learn, grow, and help one another succeed. I sat with plumbers from Georgia during one session, and over lunch, I joined a group from Wisconsin. We talked about everything from the unique challenges of running a business in different regions to funny on-the-job stories that reminded us all why we love this industry.

Clear waters, clear purpose: reflections on protecting a vital resource

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In nature, water moves in carefully balanced cycles: it falls as rain, runs along streams, and percolates through the soil. Each step in that journey is absolutely critical to maintaining water's life-giving power. Similarly, human plumbing and water systems are designed to replicate that balance.

Prevention over panic: Educating tenants and customers to avoid costly mishaps

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

A proactive replacement of the garbage disposal months earlier would have eliminated the risk entirely. A routine inspection could have flagged the weak points before they failed. Educating tenants about proper system use — no paint down the drain, ever — might have stopped the problem at its source.

More than a paycheck: why retention starts with respect

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

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?

From leak to lesson: Why transparency and trust matter just as much as the tools in the plumbing and mechanical trades

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

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.

Prepping for the next generation

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Allow your young workers time to learn. Mistakes will happen; turn them into learning opportunities. Do your best to create an environment where questions are encouraged! We all start somewhere, after all. And, most importantly, recognize growth when you see it. Gen-Z workers seem to thrive off of praise, so don’t be shy with it!

New Editor joins Plumbing & Mechanical Group at BNP Media

baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) — Mon, 05 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Walking into the bathroom of my childhood home, I recall spilling my mom’s dark red nail polish on the white tile floor. Sitting on the edge of the bathtub, I held the flashlight for my dad while he fixed a leaky pipe under the sink.

Building trust before knocking on doors

forstern@bnpmedia.com (Natalie Forster) — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

There is a fine line between running a profitable business and taking advantage of customers; ethics, values, transparency and consistency are the standout factors that make sure you’re riding the right side of the line.

Water safety and conservation drive trends in every sector

forstern@bnpmedia.com (Natalie Forster) — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In February, three key PHVAC trade shows occurred: the AHR Expo in Orlando with over 51,000 attendees, the WWETT Show in Indianapolis focused on wastewater innovations, and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Las Vegas, held with the International Builders’ Show (IBS).

Bridging the gap between wholesalers and contractors

forstern@bnpmedia.com (Natalie Forster) — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

After five years with Supply House Times, Natalie Forster gained valuable insights into the supply chain and developed relationships with PHCP-PVF wholesalers. Now, as the new Editorial Director for both Supply House Times and Plumbing & Mechanical, she'll engage daily with all supply chain participants, including wholesalers, contractors, and engineers.

Why plumbing contractors must embrace video in 2025

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Video marketing is crucial for plumbing and HVAC contractors to stand out and build credibility. Using smartphones for easy video creation and sharing on platforms like YouTube helps contractors become trusted industry experts.

How AI can help forge human connections

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Embrace AI to future-proof your team and enhance human connections in the workplace. AI is transforming industries by augmenting productivity and redefining job roles.

The power of reverse mentoring

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Reverse mentoring is transforming the plumbing contracting industry by pairing seasoned professionals with younger employees. This innovative approach fosters cross-generational learning, enhances adaptability, and drives growth for the business's future.

Want to retain employees? Give them a reason to stay

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Retaining skilled employees is vital for plumbing and HVAC contractors. High turnover leads to disruptions and decreased customer satisfaction. To address this, many are finding innovative ways to encourage retention, including unique approaches from new companies.

Inflation Reduction Act marks second anniversary

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Last month marked the second anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the most significant U.S. federal action on climate change. With over $369 billion allocated to energy and climate programs, the IRA has driven unprecedented growth in renewable energy, boosting solar, wind, and battery storage, while cutting greenhouse gas emissions and lowering energy costs.

Ensure clear, effective communication with customers and your team.

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

I reached out to some of the best coaches in the industry for some perspective on communicating clearly and effectively with customers and each other and best practices for how contractors should handle communication breakdowns.

AI solves pain points for contracting businesses

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Embracing new technology can be challenging, but it can boost sales and productivity. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can revolutionize how plumbing contractors operate by enhancing employee capabilities.

PM seeking nominees for Next Gen All Stars Top 20 Under 40 contest

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Who can be nominated? Any professional working in any aspect of the plumbing industry, including plumbers and pipefitters, contracting business owners, professional engineers and plumbing designers, wholesalers, manufacturers and manufacturers reps.

Gen Z ditching college for trade school

Mon, 13 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

There is a growing trend in the skilled trades, with more people turning away from the traditional four-year college path.

ICC celebrates 30th Anniversary in 2024

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Dive into 30 years of plumbing safety with the ICC! The code gurus celebrate their anniversary and sponsor "American Plumber Stories" to inspire future generations.

Celebrating Women in the Plumbing Industry

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

As a writer covering HVAC and plumbing, I was often the only woman in the room. But that's changing, and more women are finding success in these industries. As Judaline Cassidy said, "Jobs don't have genders."

Breaking the silence on mental health awareness in the construction industries

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0500

The construction industry is often associated with strength, resilience and tough work. However, there has been an alarming rise in mental health challenges. MCAA is taking that to heart with the first-ever public release of its suicide prevention video.

The benefits of strategic buying decisions

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0500

When a plumbing contracting company wants to grow, it can expand its geographic area by opening a new location, adding a new trade, or buying out another business.

Contractors should prioritize giving back to their communities

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Generosity is the new marketing. In this era of social media, charitable companies can earn an enhanced brand reputation as being a “good” company and will make people want to do business with them.

Get creative to attract and retain top talent

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Plumbing and HVAC contractors need to market themselves to potential employees just like they market to their customers.

A subscription-based model for the trades?

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Plumbing and HVAC contractors can help alleviate financial worries by offering multiple financing options.