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  • April 2026

    • April 2026

    Supreme Court Overturns Trump Tariffs; Dallas Students Get Real-World Pump System Training; National Craft Championships Hightlight Top Trade Talent; Soft Skills are Setting the New Standard; Q&A with MCAA President Curtis Harbour; Bath and Kitchen Remodeling Trends; KBIS Draws 117,000 to Orlando; and much more.

    More content from April 2026

    Franklin Electric logo
    Veteran pump industry leader to drive strategy and support contractors across North America.
    March 25, 2026
    Sloan
    Sloan calculates each product’s carbon footprint with Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), then offsets these emissions through partnerships with Climate Vault.
    Comprehensive lineup helps engineers and contractors reduce embodied carbon from day one.
    March 25, 2026
    ServiceTrade logo
    Collaboration brings together field service management and ERP expertise to reduce manual processes and improve visibility.
    March 25, 2026
    Photo by Chad Holder, courtesy of NKBA
    Bathrooms and kitchens are being designed as refuges from the stress of modern life
    What is driving the continued strength of the residential remodeling market? And what are the trends remodeling contractors should be aware of to achieve the strongest returns...
    March 25, 2026
    Nathan Anderson
    Parker & Sons brought nearly 1,000 employees together at Chase Field for their annual all-company meeting.
    Single-location residential service provider highlights scale, culture and training as keys to $220M operation.
    March 24, 2026
    Burnham Holdings logo
    Veteran leaders step into expanded roles to strengthen operations, coordination and long-term growth across the organization.
    March 24, 2026
    ID 10888478 | American © Songquan Deng | Dreamstime.com
    NYC skyline.
    Trade group says competitive procurement is key to cost-effective lead service line replacement and system upgrades.
    March 24, 2026
    Ariston Group logo
    Ben Capra brings contractor-focused sales experience to key markets adopting high-efficiency water heating technology.
    March 24, 2026
    ID 23354467 © Nicholas Piccillo | Dreamstime.com
    passing the baton
    The mistake most owners make is asking who can buy the business instead of who can lead it.
    March 23, 2026
    Ethisphere logo
    One of only 13 industrial manufacturing companies named to Ethisphere’s 2026 list, A. O. Smith continues to set the standard in responsible business practices.
    March 23, 2026
    NTEA
    A shot of the show floor at the Indiana Convention Center during Work Truck Week 2026.
    Contractors and fleet operators explore new vehicles, upfits and technologies shaping the future of work trucks.
    March 23, 2026
    ID 3213199 © Enruta | Dreamstime.com
    construction cranes
    Private nonres spending down for the fourth straight month; climb in data center construction weighed down by slump in manufacturing sector.
    March 23, 2026
    PHCC Indiana
    Classes being taught as part of the PHCC's Inmate Study Program.
    Seven-week pre-apprenticeship program equips inmates with job-ready skills while helping contractors address ongoing labor shortages.
    March 23, 2026
    ID 211899048 © Microgen | Dreamstime.com
    Microplastics laboratory analysis.
    Measure would fund coordinated studies, standardized definitions and testing protocols across federal agencies.
    March 20, 2026
    Zoeller logo
    Partnership reinforces focus on contractor support, education and reliable pump solutions across residential and commercial markets.
    March 20, 2026
    Coakley Williams logo
    Merit shop contractor recognized for safety performance, workforce development and consistent project delivery across diverse markets.
    March 20, 2026
    Greater Boston PCA
    Members of the Greater Boston PCA and Plumbers Local 12 at the Massachusetts’ State House for World Plumbing Day.
    Massachusetts plumbing professionals meet with lawmakers to advance public health, safety and infrastructure priorities.
    March 19, 2026
    ABC logo
    The Awards—presented at the ABC Convention in Salt Lake City—highlight outstanding professionals shaping the future of construction through leadership, safety, and education.
    March 19, 2026
    Morgan Olsen
    Morgan Olsen Kestral work truck
    This week's product gallery is all about trucks: bodies, accessories, and storage.
    March 19, 2026
    MCAA logo
    Curtis Harbour, newly appointed president-elect of MCAA, shares his journey, leadership philosophy, and strategic vision for advancing the mechanical contracting industry.
    March 18, 2026
    ID 2018563 © Michael Flippo | Dreamstime.com
    construction site with materials
    Escalation in energy and raw material costs—especially oil—may pose challenges, potentially squeezing profit margins in the coming months.
    March 18, 2026
    Schlosser & Associates
    Left to right: Zach Dennis (Operations Manager), Steve Dennis (President), Garnet Dennis (Vice President), Justin Dennis (Estimator), Chris Dennis (Estimator).
    With over 71 years of history, Schlosser & Associates combines family values and strategic technology choices to deliver reliable services across commercial, industrial, and residential...
    March 18, 2026
    Future Truck Summit logo
    Expanded program at Work Truck Week will focus on evolving vehicle technology, fuels and connected systems shaping the next generation of work trucks.
    March 17, 2026
    PPI
    HDPE pipe being installed using horizontal directional drilling
    HDPE Municipal Advisory Board report provides formulas, charts and engineering guidance for pipelines facing fault movement risks.
    March 17, 2026
    PHCC-EF
    Plumber talking to customer
    By utilizing educational resources to elevate communication skills, industry professionals are changing the language of the trade.
    March 17, 2026
    UMC logo
    Experienced engineer and program manager to focus on enterprise client relationships and high-profile project delivery.
    March 16, 2026
    Watts logo
    Recognition highlights the company’s global philanthropy, volunteerism and community investment initiatives.
    March 16, 2026
    PHCC
    Attendees work in small groups at the 2026 PHCC Essentials of Project Management class
    Four-day Essentials of Project Management course teaches trades leaders how to analyze data, solve problems, and keep projects on track.
    March 16, 2026
    ID 41879196 © Casfotoarda | Dreamstime.com
    Cyber attack written newspaper,
    Ultimately, for contractors supporting water, energy, healthcare, or transit infrastructure, cybersecurity is about operational resilience and public safety.
    March 16, 2026
    ServiceTitan logo
    Veteran tech executive joins to lead AI-driven innovation for contractors and trade professionals worldwide.
    March 16, 2026
    NTEA
    Rick Albertini, President & CEO of Phenix Truck & Van (Pomona, California), right, installed as 62nd Board chairman of NTEA
    Industry veteran and fleet upfitting leader takes the helm of The Work Truck Association during Work Truck Week 2026.
    March 16, 2026
    Zekelman logo
    Manufacturing operations leader brings global experience in safety, process improvement and plant performance as longtime division head Dan Reilly prepares to retire.
    March 16, 2026
    PHCC-LA logo
    Veteran tradesman still works seven days a week, marking more than 75 years of service to the plumbing and mechanical industry.
    March 14, 2026
    Ram
    Ram 2027 ProMaster City
    This week's gallery is all about trucks and truck accessories: new models, and shelving and drawer solutions for trucks and vans.
    March 13, 2026
    ID 4696113 © Roman Milert | Dreamstime.com
    construction workers pouring concrete
    According to ABC's Confidence Index most contractors see staffing levels as rising over the next six months.
    March 13, 2026
    Foley Mechanical
    A view of the finished mechanical room.
    Bloomin’ as in the bloom of beautiful hydronics transformation. And, bloomin’ as in peeling back the layers of complexities to get the job done right. Foley Mechanical, Lorton...
    March 13, 2026
    Gray Trunk
    The Grey Trunk RFID dashboard.
    Review of Grey Trunk RFID asset management software, the BizXpert inventory solution, Limble asset management, and Applause performance and incentive software.
    March 13, 2026
    Apollo Valves
    Cal Mosack holds an Apollo Valve right off the production line.
    From ball valves to press systems, the Apollo® portfolio continues to expand while maintaining a foundation of U.S. manufacturing and contractor-trusted performance.
    March 13, 2026
    Adrian Steel
    New Adrian Steel CEO Mark Jackson introduces himself at Work Truck Week.
    Longtime operations leader steps into top role as Adrian prepares to scale production capacity and modernize facilities.
    March 13, 2026
    Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Co. logo
    Neenah Foundry joins Charlotte Pipe’s Infrastructure Division as part of a three-division structure designed to strengthen service to plumbing, irrigation, and infrastructure ...
    March 12, 2026
    ID 342808399 © Lane Erickson | Dreamstime.com
    burst pipe
    Determining what is and is not a crisis is your job as the boss and your field representative’s job as your proxy.
    March 12, 2026
    Grove Mountain Partners logo
    Platform launch includes strategic partnerships with Biagi, Mainline, and Halls Rooter & Plumbing.
    March 12, 2026
    LIXIL logo
    LIXIL-commissioned research highlights the economic impact of the plumbing labor shortage and calls for renewed investment in trade careers.
    March 12, 2026
    A. O. Smith logo
    Veteran engineering leader will guide residential and commercial product development as the company prepares for upcoming DOE efficiency regulations.
    March 12, 2026
    IAPMO
    The updated draft provides guidance on construction practices, flushing, monitoring and preoccupancy disinfection to safeguard water quality before buildings open.
    March 11, 2026
    Addison Smith logo
    Mechanical contractor strengthens long-term independence and employee engagement with advisory support from Prairie Capital Advisors.
    March 11, 2026
    METUS logo
    Longtime leader Kuntz retires March 31 after helping guide the company’s growth, joint venture formation and expansion of all-climate heat pump solutions.
    March 10, 2026
    ID 418626799 © Hugo Kurk | Dreamstime.com
    Eemshaven Data Center Cooling Systems.
    New UC Riverside study finds US municipalities will need massive investments in treatment plants, reservoirs, and pipelines to meet peak water demand from AI and cloud computing...
    March 10, 2026
    NAWC logo
    'Beyond 2050' white paper shows every dollar invested in water can generate up to $4 in economic activity and support thousands of jobs.
    March 10, 2026
    ID 159834919 © Darren Baker | Dreamstime.com
    Worker on Building Site.
    ABC data shows modest growth in project backlogs and continued contractor optimism for sales in the months ahead.
    March 10, 2026
    Lennox logo
    Joint venture with Ariston Group brings tank and heat pump water heaters to Lennox dealers across the US and Canada beginning March 16.
    March 10, 2026
    Oatey
    An installed AAV under a residential sink.
    Modern air admittance valves are designed to protect trap seals and maintain proper drainage—but understanding exactly what they do and how to install them correctly is key.
    March 9, 2026
    Fleetio logo
    New report combines data from 1.2 million vehicles and 600 fleet professionals to identify cost pressures, downtime drivers, and opportunities for operational efficiency.
    March 9, 2026
    ID 124742804 © Andrey Popov | Dreamstime.com
    Worried Businessman Looking At Laptop With Ramsomware
    You can’t fix ransomware risk by just buying random security tools—you fix it by protecting the systems your company depends on to generate revenue. Here is where contractors ...
    March 9, 2026
    ID 191668157 © Nikolai Bataev | Dreamstime.com
    valve failure
    As infrastructure and municipal emergency contracts tighten compliance rules, contractors must prove material verification and job-site readiness.
    March 9, 2026
    Mueller
    Mueller strainer sensor
    This week's product gallery spotlights smart steam strainers with differential pressure monitoring, large-size copper press fittings, thermal energy storage tanks, a one-touch...
    March 7, 2026
    Tweet Garot Mechanical logo
    127-year-old mechanical contractor adds Marquette- and Escanaba-based firm, strengthening mechanical, plumbing, HVAC and fabrication capabilities across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula...
    March 6, 2026
    ID 85297489 © Photographerlondon | Dreamstime.com
    Yellow hardhat at shipyard with depressed male worker in background
    Workers in the construction industry have one of the highest suicide rates among all professions, emphasizing the urgent need for mental health support.
    March 6, 2026
    Milwaukee Tool
    Plumber using a press tool.
    For this Q&A we talk with Master Plumber Eric Aune about near-boiler piping problems, and how modern press tools can be the solution.
    March 6, 2026
    Navien
    Navien COO Dareen Sheehan (left) and CEO TH Kim (right) Present Donation to AHRI President and CEO Steve Yurek (middle).
    Contribution announced at AHR Expo supports scholarships for future HVACR technicians and workforce development across the trade.
    March 6, 2026
    ID 71436499 © Yongnian Gui | Dreamstime.com
    construction site
    Nonresidential construction posts mixed results as heavy and civil engineering declines outweigh gains in nonresidential building.
    March 6, 2026
    Riada / HE combined logo
    New partnerships with Riada Sales and H.E. Rieckelman improve regional support for electrified heating systems in commercial and institutional buildings.
    March 5, 2026
    ID 397692845 | Agentic Ai © Wanan Yossingkum | Dreamstime.com
    AI Agents concept art
    The question facing every home service business is simple: Will you adopt this technology proactively, or will you wait until competitive pressure forces your hand?
    March 5, 2026
    Harbor Freight tools for schools logo
    The 10th annual Prize for Teaching Excellence honors 25 teachers and programs preparing students for careers in the trades.
    March 5, 2026
    Carollo Engineers
    At the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the upgraded Horsethief Canyon Water Reclamation Facility.
    EVMWD’s upgraded Horsethief Canyon Water Reclamation Facility boosts capacity, supports development, and advances water reuse in Southern California.
    March 5, 2026
    ID 277705401 © Ingrid Balabanova | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_s_277705401
    Wall Whisperer marketing initiative aims to boost consumer awareness, drive contractor demand, and support the state’s goal of installing six million heat pumps by 2030.
    March 5, 2026
    Veolia
    Getting ready for the official groundbreaking ceremony.
    $181 million project boosts regional drinking water capacity, strengthens long-term reliability, and advances sustainable supply strategy through 2028.
    March 4, 2026
    PHCC / ACCA combined logo
    Strategic partnership enhances events, workforce development, and legislative engagement for association members.
    March 4, 2026
    NCITW logo
    Cross-industry initiatives aim to fill hundreds of thousands of skilled trade positions crucial to US infrastructure and economic growth.
    March 4, 2026
    ID 426384 © Svetlana Larina | Dreamstime.com
    Tax returns ( form calculator glasses pencil )
    Contractors face a higher risk of IRS scrutiny. Organizing records, analyzing discrepancies, and professional representation are key to a favorable outcome.
    March 4, 2026
    Wrench Group logo
    Strategic partnership leverages AI-powered insights to improve customer engagement, speed, and service consistency across markets.
    March 4, 2026
    EGIA foundation logo
    New national partnership adds up to 50 fully sponsored online HVAC diplomas, pairing certification and job placement support to address contractor workforce shortages.
    March 4, 2026
    Angi logo
    Following the launch of AI Helper, Angi enables homeowners to transition seamlessly from project planning in ChatGPT to hiring skilled pros on its marketplace.
    March 4, 2026
    ID 256851148 © Ljupco | Dreamstime.com
    Team of plumbers holding plumbing equipment
    Third-generation plumber Nate Agentis spoke with CONTRACTOR about fledgling plumbing companies, and key considerations for new owners looking to grow their business.
    March 3, 2026
    Sato photocollage
    Global milestone underscores market-based approach to expanding safe toilets and hygiene access across Africa and Asia.
    March 3, 2026
    Sloan
    The updated Sloan Mobile Showroom.
    Updated showroom gives industry professionals a deeper look at integrated sinks, water-efficient fixtures and upcoming finish launches.
    March 3, 2026
    Werner
    Ladder safety instruction.
    New training videos, inspection technology, and distributor resources support safer climbing practices in March and year-round.
    March 2, 2026
    March4Water logo
    IAPMO provides technical guidance and workforce training to help cities, developers, and contractors optimize plumbing systems.
    March 2, 2026
    Nexa logo
    The redesigned site helps contractors, engineers, and facility managers explore the Nexa platform, preventing leaks and cutting water and energy waste.
    March 2, 2026
    ID 102791331 | Ai © Semisatch | Dreamstime.com
    Chatbot and future communication concept.
    Service business owners often struggle with time-consuming administrative tasks that hinder growth. AI-powered solutions can improve customer satisfaction, and prepare a business...
    March 2, 2026
    ID 90676831 © Yunkiphotoshot | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_s_90676831
    S&P's Engineering and Construction Cost Indicator climbs to 56.4, signaling expanding wage and material inflation despite moderating six-month outlook.
    March 2, 2026
    Zurn Elkay
    Zurn Elkay water dispenser
    This week's gallery features a residential built-in filtered water dispenser, a 1.25 gpm showerhead, a drain cleaner for large pipe up to 10 in., a continuous-monitoring sentry...
    Feb. 27, 2026
    Xylem
    Dana Adams (with hose) along with volunteers.
    Xylem, Water Well Trust and HometownH2O partner with local contractors to drill and equip a new residential well system.
    Feb. 27, 2026
    ID 88379350 © ibreakstock | Dreamstime.com
    exit strategy word cloud
    In the United States, 8 out of every 10 businesses will never sell because their owners have not prepared the companies for their departure.
    Feb. 27, 2026
    ID 37491671 © Khunaspix | Dreamstime.com
    construction site against dramatic dusky sky
    ABC analysis shows 0.6% drop overall, with private projects leading the decline.
    Feb. 27, 2026
    ID 19112801 © Andreas Karelias | Dreamstime.com
    Construction worker resting on steel bars.
    Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of Producer Price Index data shows monthly gains for overall and nonresidential construction inputs, with mixed energy price movement...
    Feb. 27, 2026
    NKBA / Emerald
    The KBIS logo outside the Orange County Convention Center.
    Three-day event at Orange County Convention Center highlights product innovation, education, and strong outlook for the kitchen and bath sector.
    Feb. 27, 2026
    Lubrizol
    applying solvent cement to a CPVC pipe section
    Plastics like CPVC deliver reliable, long-term, leak-free performance—as long as they have been installed and maintained properly.
    Feb. 26, 2026
    Lubrizol
    Lubrizol's Louisville plant.
    Innovative process delivers higher thermal stability, faster processing and improved energy efficiency to support demanding plumbing and industrial applications.
    Feb. 26, 2026
    ISN logo
    White paper introduces an Energy-Based Safety lens to help organizations better identify and mitigate serious injury and fatality risks.
    Feb. 26, 2026
    Rinnai logo
    New executive to lead product strategy and innovation across North America, advancing tankless water heater technology and long-term growth.
    Feb. 25, 2026
    Copper Development Association
    Harold Moret, CDA Project Manager and Piping Applications Specialist.
    Copper Development Association program supports utilities and contractors preparing for EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Improvements.
    Feb. 25, 2026
    mSupply logo
    Industry veteran to align category management, ecommerce execution, and vendor strategy across appliance, HVAC and plumbing divisions.
    Feb. 25, 2026
    ID 52413772 © Andrey Popov | Dreamstime.com
    gavel in court
    Trade groups warn lower court decision could eliminate non-condensing gas furnaces and complicate replacement jobs nationwide.
    Feb. 24, 2026
    Famous Supply
    The ribbon cutting ceremony at the new Maple Heights training center.
    New Maple Heights facility delivers hands-on plumbing, hydronics and HVAC training with 12 live labs, CEU courses and workforce development programs.
    Feb. 24, 2026
    LG Electronics Logo
    For the first time, LG’s residential water heaters were included in the AHRI evaluation program.
    Feb. 24, 2026
    RIDGID
    RIDGID products then and now.
    Three decades of innovation have helped plumbing and drain contractors inspect faster, locate more accurately and document jobs with confidence.
    Feb. 24, 2026
    ID 7181171 © Feverpitched | Dreamstime.com
    For Sale Sign and House.
    Builders respond with price incentives, adaptive reuse, mixed-density developments, and outdoor-centric design to attract both entry-level and high-end buyers.
    Feb. 23, 2026
    ID 94621738 © Anutr Yossundara | Dreamstime.com
    Construction Engineer using phone to contact customer
    Most trade companies overspend on IT because their providers lack a true understanding of how trade businesses operate day to day.
    Feb. 23, 2026