• Home >
  • Back Issues >
  • Contractor >
  • December 2025

    • December 2025

    PHCC Connect: Education, Community and Leadership; GF Supports New Veteran Village; Construction Employment Uptick Amid Tight Labor Market; 'Tis the Season - Contractors Giving Back; The Next Level of Commercial Contracting; ABC Names Thomas 'Murph' Murphy as 2026 National Chair; and much more.
    Rasmussen, Quality, Del-Air, Plumbing Outfitters
    A collage of contractor employees giving back to their communities.
    Nov. 25, 2025
    ID 4356893 © Quentin Bargate | Dreamstime.com
    construction cranes at sunrise.
    Nov. 25, 2025
    ID 51065565 © Flynt | Dreamstime.com
    Man in handcuffs.
    Nov. 25, 2025
    BBTT
    The Bring Back the Trades team and guests.
    Nov. 24, 2025
    ID 4707146 © Cheng Zhong | Dreamstime.com
    New steel pipe.
    Nov. 24, 2025

    More content from December 2025

    Patrick Linhardt
    An early version of the Trane float air vent for low-pressure steam systems.
    The author uncovers an early Trane float air vent—offering a look at coal-era steam heating design, failed radiator traps, and what contractors should watch for in aging two-pipe...
    Nov. 24, 2025
    Grizzly MEP logo
    In our Q&A with John Adams, Grizzly MEP CEO, we talk about building a network based on growth, collaboration, back-office support, and financial opportunities.
    Nov. 22, 2025
    General Pipe Cleaners
    General Pipe Cleaners video inspection machine
    This week's gallery spotlights a high-definition pipe inspection system, a series of plate-and-frame heat exchangers, light duty and point-of-use commercial water heaters, a smart...
    Nov. 21, 2025
    Nexstar Network
    Julian Scadden, President and CEO of Nexstar Network, and Ruchir Shah, CEO and Founder of SkillCat, pose for a photo at the partnership announcement.
    Expanded partnership pairs NexTech Academy’s contractor-proven curriculum with SkillCat’s mobile learning platform to create a more accessible, high-capacity training ecosystem...
    Nov. 21, 2025
    ID 267545771 © Anatoliygleb | Dreamstime.com
    Father and son installing plumbing pipe system at home.
    Through hands-on learning, community connection, and storytelling, we can show children the beauty of working with their hands and the dignity of solving problems.
    Nov. 21, 2025
    LIXIL
    Left: David Hoey, CEO, WorldSkills International, Center: Troy Benavidez, Right: Francis Hourant, President and Chair of the Board, WorldSkills International
    Through GROHE and its broader training ecosystem, LIXIL advances inclusive, skills-based education for installers across global markets.
    Nov. 20, 2025
    ID 202161649 © Dizain777 | Dreamstime.com
    skilled trades
    Program continues to scale with nationwide partnerships and digital-forward curricula for students entering core residential service careers.
    Nov. 20, 2025
    PHCC
    An attendee at one of the many educational sessions at PHCC CONNECT.
    Contractors explore emerging trends, strengthen networks and celebrate service in Grand Rapids.
    Nov. 20, 2025
    ID 119560912 © Bogdanhoda | Dreamstime.com
    Building construction worker pouring cement
    Nonresidential categories added more than 16,000 positions in September even as overall unemployment edged higher.
    Nov. 20, 2025
    ID 51333586 © Bogdanhoda | Dreamstime.com
    Worker using a drilling power tool
    The latest edition of “Safety is Specific” breaks down best practices for nearly two dozen tool categories, supported by PTI’s newly modernized website.
    Nov. 19, 2025
    ABC 75th anniversary logo
    Power & Construction Group executive to prioritize workforce development, merit shop advocacy and contractor recognition.
    Nov. 19, 2025
    ID 24550899 © Gregory21 | Dreamstime.com
    Interior view of a data center with equipment
    With billions of gallons needed to cool next-generation processors, experts say water-efficiency retrofits will become essential across commercial buildings.
    Nov. 19, 2025
    ID 49745506 © Albund | Dreamstime.com
    breaking news image
    Let's look back at some of the biggest news stories affecting the plumbing and hydronic heating industry in 2025.
    Nov. 19, 2025
    ID 123404022 © Iratceva | Dreamstime.com
    State flag of Minnesota.
    Walsh’s three-year term expands her influence across climate action, recycling initiatives, and technical committee work in multiple trade organizations.
    Nov. 18, 2025
    PHCC
    Ashley Stroud is named the PHCC's 2025 Contractor of the Year.
    Stroud’s leadership at Plumbing Outfitters sets a model for workforce development, customer education, and community-driven service.
    Nov. 18, 2025
    ID 30534407 © Arkadi Bojarsinov | Dreamstime.com
    experience sign
    When the experience is unpredictable, the business is unpredictable. When the experience is consistent, everything else begins to align.
    Nov. 17, 2025
    BDR
    Nate Agentis, founder of Plumbing CEO
    Acquisition strengthens BDR’s contractor-focused coaching with deeper tools for business growth, leadership and team development.
    Nov. 17, 2025
    NTEA
    A speaker at the Green Truck Summit.
    Expanded program now blends fuel-tech, telematics, fleet data and emerging commercial-vehicle technologies for contractors and upfitters.
    Nov. 17, 2025
    ID 13886895 © Alexander Potapov | Dreamstime.com
    construction cranes at sunset.
    Nonresidential construction spending contracted for the third time in the past four months and is now down 1.5% year over year.
    Nov. 17, 2025
    PHCC
    Valerie Butler named PHCC Plumbing Apprentice of the Year.
    Marine Corps veteran and rising plumbing leader earns national recognition for technical skill, leadership, and industry service.
    Nov. 14, 2025
    Tweet Garrot logo
    Tweet Garot Mechanical adds Traverse City–based Temperature Control to strengthen its mechanical service and building automation footprint across Michigan.
    Nov. 14, 2025
    Brass Knuckle
    Brass Knuckle PPE
    This week's product gallery highlights safety glasses with an anti-fog layer and UV 6 protection, a hybrid electric heat pump water heater, a compact water pressure boosting system...
    Nov. 14, 2025
    PHCC
    PHCC Educational Foundation logo
    PHCC Educational Foundation names Sheldon Shapiro to its Board of Governors, honoring a legacy of workforce development and industry giving.
    Nov. 14, 2025
    products of the year 2025 logo
    See the top plumbing and hydronic products of the past year as chosen by our readers.
    Nov. 14, 2025
    Inflow
    inFlow Inventory software.
    Reviews of the Inflow inventory solution, ZyraTalk customer service software, and Praxedo field service management software,
    Nov. 13, 2025
    ID 11918998 © Walter Arce | Dreamstime.com
    Mike Rowe of the hit show, Dirty Jobs,
    Free online event offers trade professionals practical strategies to boost revenue, stay competitive, and thrive through seasonal slowdowns.
    Nov. 13, 2025
    Nice North America
    Veterans in front of a flag.
    Total Home Creations and Nice North America deliver accessible automation systems that bring comfort, control, and connection to those who’ve served.
    Nov. 13, 2025
    ID 55516369 © Goodluz | Dreamstime.com
    Plumbing students with instructor.
    Hands-on mastery and system-level understanding once defined trade excellence—now, many fear that “tech-only” training is eroding those fundamentals.
    Nov. 12, 2025
    ID 360940719 © Davide Bonaldo | Dreamstime.com
    Aerial view of shipping containers and cargo ships in the sea port of Barcelona in Spain, Europe.
    While contractors may leverage many different tactics to mitigate the ongoing whiplash of tariffs, the most important strategy remains communication and collaboration between ...
    Nov. 12, 2025
    Leonard Valve logo
    Acquisition expands A. O. Smith’s presence in the mechanical room with leading mixing valve and control technologies.
    Nov. 12, 2025
    Rod Stears
    NTI President Grzegorz Wojcik talks with Patryk Zubek of the Saint John Sea Dogs.
    Hockey meets hydronics as NTI and the Sea Dogs celebrate teamwork, talent, and local pride.
    Nov. 12, 2025
    ID 112409500 © Bumbleedee | Dreamstime.com
    American Soldiers Saluting US Flag.
    With high paying jobs and plenty of employment opportunity, it’s no surprise that many military members are exploring skill trades as a post-service option.
    Nov. 12, 2025
    PHCC
    Cody Schroeder receives his award for Plumbing Instructor of the Year at PHCC Connect 2025.
    Midwestern Mechanical’s Cody Schroeder recognized for advancing apprenticeship training, modernizing instruction, and inspiring the next generation of plumbing professionals.
    Nov. 11, 2025
    Rasmussen Mechanical
    Ther 300HP Superior 3-pass wetback boiler.
    Working under space and shutdown constraints, Rasmussen Mechanical engineered a precise 300HP boiler installation—complete with new combustion controls, heat recovery, and feedwater...
    Nov. 11, 2025
    ARCSA logo
    Two-day event at Grundfos’ Brookshire, Texas headquarters to unite engineers, designers, and sustainability leaders.
    Nov. 11, 2025
    ID 303425835 © Wirestock | Dreamstime.com
    An aerial view of the QTS Data center under construction in Phoenix, Arizona
    ABC’s latest survey shows weakening sentiment despite continued strength in manufacturing and data center construction.
    Nov. 11, 2025
    Andy J. Egan logo
    Partnership brings together Egan’s century of mechanical expertise with Sylvan’s multi-trade, technology-enabled platform.
    Nov. 10, 2025
    Charlotte Pipe and Foundry logo
    Acquisition unites three long-standing US foundries under one family-owned group.
    Nov. 10, 2025
    ID 105565415 © Wanida Prapan | Dreamstime.com
    golf club
    Contractors who complete Watts training can now win premium jobsite gear through the company’s latest education-driven rewards program.
    Nov. 10, 2025
    GF Piping
    Installing water service piping.
    GF donates Uponor PEX systems for 22-unit housing community providing stable homes for veterans and their families.
    Nov. 10, 2025
    Bradley
    Bradley wall carrier
    This week's product gallery features a commercial in-wall lav carrier, commercial reverse osmosis water quality systems, a low-flow wall-hung toilet, an anti-corrosive additive...
    Nov. 7, 2025
    PMI
    The 2026 Plumbing Manufacturers International Board of Directors, with PMI CEO/Executive Director Kerry Stackpole. l-r: Troy Benavidez, LIXIL; Kate Olinger, Uponor-GF Building Flow Solutions; board vice president Lowell Lampen, Kohler; 2026 board president Bob Neff, Delta Faucet Company; 2025 board president Belinda Wise, Neoperl US; Stackpole; John Confrey, Falcon Water Technologies; Tim O'Keefe, Symmons Industries; and board secretary/treasurer Paige Riddle, LSP Products.
    Masco and Delta’s Bob Neff to serve as president; members celebrate collaboration, innovation, and shared progress at PMI25 in Chicago.
    Nov. 6, 2025
    Ariston Canada
    Ariston Canada HQ.
    NTI Boilers adopts Ariston’s legal name while maintaining its trusted NTI identity and dealer relationships.
    Nov. 6, 2025
    PHCC
    Jeff Voss (center) with the Col. Scott Award.
    Longtime North Carolina leader credited with driving licensing reform, mentoring apprentices, and championing contractor interests nationwide.
    Nov. 5, 2025
    Dan Beard Council
    A shot of the groundbreaking ceremony in May of 2025.
    Dever Family Foundation Skilled Trades Education Center marks construction milestone with topping out ceremony.
    Nov. 5, 2025
    IAPMO logo
    Landmark report identifies IAPMO’s tool as an essential strategy for cutting US water use up to 60% through right-sized plumbing design.
    Nov. 5, 2025
    Saniflo
    Regis Saragosti.
    After 20 years driving growth and innovation in the US plumbing market, Saragosti embraces a new chapter as a full-time artist.
    Nov. 4, 2025
    PPI
    HDPE pipe on the job site.
    Trade associations join forces to highlight data-backed advantages in performance, resilience, and lifecycle cost.
    Nov. 4, 2025
    Sloan
    Advanced top-fill soap dispensers feature a patented level-sensing design with on-spout indicator lights.
    IoT monitoring, advanced dispenser design, and pressure-assist systems give maintenance teams real-time insights to prevent problems, save water, and streamline service.
    Nov. 4, 2025
    Cortec
    Data center cooling towers.
    When the cooling system fails due to corrosion—often a silent and progressive issue—a routine maintenance concern instantly escalates into catastrophic downtime.
    Nov. 4, 2025
    ID 20234501 © Fotosenmeer | Dreamstime.com
    old plumber young plumber
    Build a talent strategy optimized to keep your younger workers retained and engaged.
    Nov. 4, 2025
    DSG logo
    The move strengthens DSG’s presence in the state’s pump, sewer, and water well markets while welcoming the Quality Pumps team as new employee owners.
    Nov. 3, 2025
    USGBC logo
    Scorecards, guides, and crosswalks empower the industry to deliver healthier, more resilient, high-performance buildings.
    Nov. 3, 2025
    Saniflo
    purple heart foundation logo
    Donation helps fund financial relief, service dog training, and education programs for veterans and their families.
    Nov. 3, 2025
    PHCC
    L to R - PHCC Educational Foundation National Plumbing Apprentice Contest Winners - Daniel Pritchett (Third Place), Josh Vogt (First Place), Cody Green (Second Place).
    Three days of competition highlighted the craftsmanship and teamwork driving the next generation of plumbing professionals.
    Nov. 3, 2025
    US Boiler
    This investment solidifies Lancaster's role as a hub for next-generation, high-efficiency heating solutions
    New 45,000-square-foot facility expands production of high-efficiency heating products and reinforces US Boiler’s commitment to American manufacturing.
    Oct. 31, 2025
    Wolseley Canada logo
    Funding advances monitoring programs that safeguard aquifers and strengthen water security across the Columbia Basin and Alberta.
    Oct. 31, 2025
    Watts
    Getting hands-on training at a Watts Learning Center.
    Contractors can explore labor-saving systems, including BLÜCHER® Push-Fit stainless-steel drainage, through online and hands-on learning.
    Oct. 31, 2025
    ID 32896169 © Kashamalasha | Dreamstime.com
    Canadian flag.
    Launch strengthens Bradford White’s commitment to offering durable, high-efficiency water heating solutions tailored to Canadian needs.
    Oct. 31, 2025
    Trimble - LFC partnership announcement.
    New multi-year partnership combines Trimble’s technology leadership with LFC’s world-class legacy of performance and innovation.
    Oct. 31, 2025
    Rocket Group
    Part of the ProThermal team.
    Strategic partnership strengthens Rocket Group’s HVAC network in Northeast Oklahoma and enhances service capabilities nationwide.
    Oct. 31, 2025
    Sloan
    Sloan integrated sink system.
    This week's gallery spotlights a commercial integrated sink system for touchless handwashing, a wafer check valve with a compact and lightweight design, an indirect-fired water...
    Oct. 31, 2025
    F. W. Webb logo
    New VP continues company’s push for smarter, more connected customer experiences across every channel.
    Oct. 30, 2025
    GF
    GF Central Plastics' new 150,000 sq. ft. metals manufacturing facility.
    Company’s new Oklahoma metals facility enhances operational efficiency and reinforces commitment to sustainable growth.
    Oct. 30, 2025
    Metabo
    As part of the partnership, Metabo HPT will sponsor the build of a mobile shop class throughout the school year
    Backed by national survey data, Metabo HPT’s new campaign champions hands-on education and trade career readiness through its partnership with the Shop Class Foundation.
    Oct. 30, 2025
    Weil-McLain logo
    Weil-McLain’s latest Advantage® promotion rewards high-efficiency boiler installs with bonus points, premium prizes, and a free Simplicity™ combi boiler for top performers.
    Oct. 30, 2025
    Lemon Seed Marketing
    Skagit Plumbing wins the Great American Brand Story (GABS) contest and has its new brand, message and website revealed live at Service World Expo 2025.
    Contractor honored at Service World Expo 2025 for strong values, customer focus and community-driven mission.
    Oct. 30, 2025
    AHR Expo 2026 logo
    Ten breakthrough technologies recognized for advancing efficiency, performance and design across the industry.
    Oct. 28, 2025
    Bradford White logo
    New Industry Forward® grant will expand Explore The Trades’ poster kit program, connecting nearly a million students to plumbing, HVAC and electrical career opportunities.
    Oct. 27, 2025
    HomeServ
    Several contractors received top accolades for their performance, quality, and customer satisfaction.
    HomeServe North America recently celebrated a decade of partnership and excellence at its 10th Annual Contractor Conference Awards.
    Oct. 27, 2025
    Saniflo logo
    Manufacturer’s contribution supports research and patient programs providing transportation, lodging, and 24/7 assistance for those in treatment.
    Oct. 24, 2025
    ID 113024056 © Photovs | Dreamstime.com
    bathroom remodel in progress
    The risks of backflow and cross-contamination won’t shock anyone, but they can jump in frequency whenever older systems are retrofitted or new technology is introduced.
    Oct. 24, 2025
    Resideo
    Resideo
    This week's product gallery highlights a residential smart thermostat, a line of ligature-resistant floor drains, a commercial/industrial booster pump, an all-in-one handwashing...
    Oct. 24, 2025
    Rinnai logo.
    Voss to drive North American growth and strengthen Rinnai’s market position in high-efficiency tankless and hydronic solutions.
    Oct. 23, 2025