• Home >
  • Back Issues >
  • Contractor >
  • July 2026

    • July 2026

    Made in America 2026; Louisiana Plumbing Licensing Reform Sparks Controversy; Quinonez Named Next PHCC CEO; SkillsUSA Showcases Next Generation of Plumbing Talent; A. O. Smith Names Schafer CEO & Chairman; Reviving a Bozeman Landmark; and much more.

    More content from July 2026

    DB’s Plumbing and Drain logo
    Northern Virginia residential plumbing contractor transitions to new ownership after building a strong homeowner base and service reputation.
    June 24, 2026
    PPI
    Matthew Wirtz, P.E., Deputy Director/Chief Engineer Fort Wayne City Utilities, Fort Wayne, Indiana (center) receives the Municipal Advisory Board (MAB) Certificate of Appreciation Award from MAB co-chairs Camille George Rubeiz (left) and Luis Aguiar (right).
    PPI’s Municipal Advisory Board recognizes Matthew Wirtz for helping utilities improve water and sewer infrastructure through trenchless pipe installation strategies.
    June 24, 2026
    Xylem
    The Brown family along with project volunteers at their Willis, VA home.
    The project will provide a veteran-led family with a new well and pump system while spotlighting ongoing water reliability challenges in underserved rural communities.
    June 24, 2026
    General PIpe Cleaners
    General PIpe Cleaners' redesigned website.
    The redesigned platform simplifies access to equipment details, support resources and distributor locations for plumbing contractors.
    June 23, 2026
    A. O. Smith logo
    Leadership transition marks the end of Wheeler’s three-decade run and puts Shafer in a dual Chairman-CEO role.
    June 23, 2026
    ID 243434827 © Edgars Sermulis | Dreamstime.com
    SURETY BOND. Black wood texture office desk.
    Over 30 years in insurance and surety, I've watched contractors build impressive businesses, then hit a completely avoidable compliance problem because one renewal slipped through...
    June 23, 2026
    Kohler
    Kohler demi lav from Waste Lab
    This week's gallery highlights a bathroom sink made from recycled materials, a commercial/industrial immersed electrode boiler, floor-standing combi and heat-only boilers, a modular...
    June 22, 2026
    ID 13263443 © Photka | Dreamstime.com
    Group of people running in a marathon
    Learn how a well-crafted PR plan can showcase your company's strengths, improve visibility, and build credibility, helping you stand out to potential employees.
    June 22, 2026
    Brady Brophy
    The wall-hung boiler with circulators, venting and expansion tank.
    The author helps set up a boiler-powered, in-slab radiant system.
    June 22, 2026
    WaterFurnace logo
    The move comes as the manufacturer looks to build on growth in residential and commercial geothermal and water-source heat pump segments.
    June 22, 2026
    IAPMO logo
    The award recognizes Aguilar’s work shaping industry standards that support public health, safety and system performance.
    June 22, 2026
    ID 114657204 © Visivasnc | Dreamstime.com
    plumber installing a toilet
    In addition to using mathematics, prospective apprentices need a few other attributes that today’s labor pool is sorely lacking.
    June 19, 2026
    BuildOps
    A contractor using the BuildOps platform.
    Reviews of the Projects add-on for the BuildOps platform, Newo.ai virtual assistant, and Evolve field-service software.
    June 19, 2026
    Hiller Plumbing
    Representatives from Hiller joined other winning businesses at Nashville’s Music City Center to celebrate and receive their awards.
    The honor reflects strong employee satisfaction and a company culture built around team support, growth and service.
    June 18, 2026
    Sonnhalter
    Loading a truck with donated items during the 2025 Sonnhalter Tool Drive.
    Trades-focused initiative has delivered more than $603,000 in donated tools and materials to help expand affordable housing across Northeast Ohio.
    June 18, 2026
    ID 246505734 © Pop Nukoonrat | Dreamstime.com
    customer acquisition concept art
    For businesses operating on tight project margins, misreading the true cost of customer acquisition creates a compounding financial blind spot that limits growth.
    June 18, 2026
    A compeititor rests on a KNAACK MONSTERBOX during the World's Strongest Man competition.
    New finals event puts both elite athletes and KNAACK jobsite storage products to the test in front of a global audience.
    June 17, 2026
    ID 14472756 © Olivier Le Queinec | Dreamstime.com
    low flow faucet
    The Water Research Foundation’s latest research highlights decades of gains from water-efficient plumbing fixtures, appliances and conservation efforts.
    June 17, 2026
    ID 1902902 © Ken Hurst | Dreamstime.com
    Construction worker with nail gun
    Contractors saw backlog increase in May, while sales, profit and staffing expectations remained in expansion territory.
    June 16, 2026
    Channellock
    A Channellock worker in the company's Meadville, Pennsylvania factory.
    The sixth-generation family-owned toolmaker celebrates its legacy while reinforcing its commitment to American-made tools and skilled trades.
    June 16, 2026
    ID 138637484 © Wrightstudio | Dreamstime.com
    e-commerce concept
    In this exclusive Q&A with Paul Redman, President of Contractor Commerce, we discuss how e-commerce is changing how contractors price, sell, and estimate.
    June 16, 2026
    Wells Fargo logo
    New funding will support training, scholarships and career awareness programs for plumbing, HVAC, electrical and welding trades.
    June 16, 2026
    ID 421444579 © Andrei Dodonov | Dreamstime.com
    high-risk loan concept
    Predatory lenders build their business models around one fact: contractors have no time to search for alternatives and need cash now. Here is how the traps work and how to step...
    June 16, 2026
    IAPMO logo
    The UPC Technical Committee is forming a task group to research and develop recommendations on building drain cured-in-place technologies.
    June 16, 2026
    Watts logo
    New report highlights progress in water conservation, emissions reductions and product innovation across plumbing and hydronic systems.
    June 16, 2026
    REHAU logo
    Industry veteran will oversee expansion in plumbing, hydronics, geothermal and municipal infrastructure as REHAU sharpens regional strategy.
    June 15, 2026
    RIDGID
    Students at the annual We Love STEM day event.
    Program gives K-8 students an early look at how STEM skills translate into careers across manufacturing and the trades.
    June 15, 2026
    Google logo
    New funding will support labor unions and contractor groups training more than 300,000 workers across 20 states, with plumbing, HVACR and mechanical trades among the key focus...
    June 15, 2026
    ID 115005252 | Business © Andrii Yalanskyi | Dreamstime.com
    business systems concept image
    We look at the four things a buyer pays for beyond your revenue.
    June 15, 2026
    ID 185397083 | Business © Niroworld | Dreamstime.com
    scheduling via calendar and push pins
    In field service, dispatch coordination isn't a back-office function. It's the operating system the entire business runs on.
    June 15, 2026
    UPC and UMC code books.
    The latest editions of the UPC and UMC introduce major updates for water heaters, hydronics, Legionella prevention and mechanical ventilation systems.
    June 12, 2026
    plumber servicing a commercial water heater
    More than 30 organizations are urging federal officials to delay and reconsider efficiency standards they say would raise costs and limit heating choices for homeowners and businesses...
    June 12, 2026
    ID 244092895 © Wiroje Pathi | Dreamstime.com
    cooling tower on a large data center building
    NEMA, ASHRAE and PNNL release a new performance framework aimed at improving energy efficiency, resilience and thermal management in next-generation AI-driven data centers.
    June 12, 2026
    CDS
    The Copper Development Association (CDA) proudly participated in the 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference, continuing more than two decades of support forone of the nation’s premier showcases of career and technical education.
    Top plumbing students from across the country compete in Atlanta as industry leaders spotlight workforce development and skilled trades careers.
    June 11, 2026
    ID 4809442 © Linqong | Dreamstime.com
    construction workers on the job site.
    Construction input prices increased by 2.6% in May, with overall materials prices up 9.6% year over year, driven by energy costs and tariff-affected materials like steel and copper...
    June 11, 2026
    Ling Luo for USGBC-CA
    (L to R): Geneva Gondak, EBMUD; Mark Myers, Project Architect; Ben Stapleton, USGBC-CA; Karen Curtiss, Principal, Red Dot Studio and Red Dot Ranch; Colin Mangham, USGBC-CA; Kyle Pickett, USGBC-CA.
    Global design challenge showcases innovative strategies for reducing residential water use through plumbing, hot water and retrofit-focused solutions.
    June 11, 2026
    ID 53217969 © Sauleancristian | Dreamstime.com
    fleet of service vehicles
    Managing a fleet in-house can be complex and costly, especially as your business expands. Partnering with fleet management experts provides strategic support in vehicle lifecycle...
    June 11, 2026
    ID 321465069 © Tongsupatman | Dreamstime.com
    businessman examining KPIs
    Contractors can’t align their operations with every available number, which raises the question: which metrics matter most?
    June 10, 2026
    ID 295979998 © Erin Alexis Randolph | Dreamstime.com
    overflowing sewer drain
    Report evaluates 20 major US cities and highlights the growing impact of saltwater intrusion on sewer infrastructure in coastal markets.
    June 10, 2026
    PHCC
    Motivational speaker Dr. Rick Goodman.
    Internationally recognized author and speaker will share strategies to help plumbing and HVACR contractors strengthen teams, improve communication and build resilient organizations...
    June 10, 2026
    rocket group logo
    The new California headquarters strengthens support for plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and home service contractors through hands-on education and proven business systems.
    June 9, 2026
    ID 70222283 © Ahmad Marzuky | Dreamstime.com
    Land affected by drought conditions.
    As water supplies tighten across much of the United States, experts point to efficiency upgrades and waterless fixtures as practical solutions for reducing consumption.
    June 9, 2026
    Watts logo
    Recognition highlights Watts’ ongoing commitment to helping customers manage water more efficiently while reducing environmental impact across its operations.
    June 9, 2026
    Bradford White
    Industry Forward® initiative delivers hands-on training equipment and funding to help develop the next generation of plumbing and HVAC professionals.
    June 9, 2026
    Meta logo
    America’s Workforce Academy will provide no-cost training, NCCER credentials, and direct employment opportunities for future plumbing and construction professionals.
    June 9, 2026
    ID 91446896 © Alexxxey | Dreamstime.com
    Industrial boilers, pipes and pumps.
    Advances in energy efficiency, electrification readiness, and emissions compliance are driving the next generation of boiler investments.
    June 8, 2026
    ID 19700104 © Pressureua | Dreamstime.com
    Social media web sites on a computer screen
    Social media recruiting is about organically making a trade business visible, trustworthy, and‬ attractive before someone applies.‬
    June 8, 2026
    John Russell/CMA
    Host Keith Urban at the CMA Touring Awards.
    Workwear manufacturer joins 20th annual awards program as presenting sponsor, recognizing the professionals who keep country music tours moving.
    June 8, 2026
    ID 101444901 | Adult © Stevanovicigor | Dreamstime.com
    Construction engineer working on desktop computer
    Most failed software implementations begin with mistakes made before the first invoice goes out. Here are the ones I see most often.
    June 7, 2026
    Housecall Pro logo
    Applications jump 155% as 20 HVAC, plumbing and electrical students receive scholarships, tools and business technology support.
    June 7, 2026
    ID 299370530 © Chad Robertson | Dreamstime.com
    The historic State Capitol Building, Baton Rouge, LA.
    The Louisiana House approved House Bill 953, dissolving the century-old State Plumbing Board and transferring regulation to the Contractors Board, raising concerns about training...
    June 5, 2026
    Milwaukee Tool
    Milwaukee Tool cooling fan
    This week's gallery highlights a USB cooling fan, water heater service valve kits, prefabricated radiant mats, a portable drain hose reel, a bath faucet with semiprecious stones...
    June 5, 2026
    ID 27478751 © Viorel Dudau | Dreamstime.com
    Workers on construction site.
    Contractors remain broadly optimistic about growing their staffing levels over the next six months.
    June 5, 2026
    Watts logo
    Industry veteran will help drive growth, product development and market expansion across shutoff valves, connections and plumbing specialties.
    June 5, 2026
    ID 25321464 © G0r3cki | Dreamstime.com
    pool and hot tub with blue tile
    Technical committees review public comments on proposed updates covering geothermal systems, hydronics, pools, spas and emerging aquatic technologies.
    June 4, 2026
    ID 47367051 © Denboma | Dreamstime.com
    Pipe, fittings and plumbing tools
    With this guide, plumbers and other professionals will better understand the importance of proper pipe fitting selection, as well as a number of common errors to avoid.
    June 4, 2026
    ID 319052040 © Napong Rattanaraktiya | Dreamstime.com
    Professional Businessman using AI Technology
    Most contractors I talk to already know AI is part of the answer. The harder question is what to actually do with it.
    June 4, 2026
    SFPE 2026 conference logo
    Industry leaders, engineers and fire safety professionals will connect in Atlanta to discuss innovation, research and evolving fire protection strategies.
    June 3, 2026
    Franklin Electric
    A Franklin Electric pump covered under the pioneer pump expert service snetwork
    The new network offers rapid response, on-site repairs, and technician training, ensuring pump owners receive dependable technical assistance and faster resolutions throughout...
    June 3, 2026
    Rinnai
    The exterior of the new Rinnai mobile showroom.
    Custom-built showroom on wheels strengthens the company’s investment in Canada through product demonstrations, distributor events and field training.
    June 3, 2026
    ID 45757234 © Vadimgozhda | Dreamstime.com
    Professional plumber. Plumbing repair service.
    The problem usually is not the marketing—it is that there is no foundation underneath it.
    June 3, 2026
    Authority Brands logo
    Home services franchisor to create 390 jobs and invest $13 million in new Cobb County headquarters supporting more than 1,000 franchise owners nationwide.
    June 3, 2026
    Apogee Equity Partners logo
    Transaction connects Midland-based residential plumbing and HVAC contractor with a growing home services platform backed by Grove Mountain Partners.
    June 2, 2026
    Bradford White
    The cover of 'Plumber Paige to the Rescue!'
    Bradford White-backed children’s book uses storytelling to showcase how plumbers help keep communities running.
    June 2, 2026
    Dan Vastyan
    The basement mechanical room, complete with two ALTA boilers, a 120-gallon indirect tank and (lower left corner) a beer keg urinal.
    The goal was to have a home with premium comfort and efficiency while maintaining the 125-year-old aesthetic to whatever degree possible.
    June 2, 2026
    Uponor
    Baseball pitcher on an Uponor mound
    Thank a Tradesperson Day highlights the essential role plumbers, builders, and contractors play in supporting communities and infrastructure.
    June 2, 2026
    Enertech
    An aerial view of the Enertech HQ.
    Company celebrates three decades of advancing geothermal and air-to-water heat pump solutions across North America.
    June 2, 2026
    ID 15303892 © Ant Clausen | Dreamstime.com
    Building under construction with workers.
    In April, US nonresidential construction spending increased slightly by 0.1%, with public sector projects leading the growth, while private spending declined for the seventh month...
    June 1, 2026
    IAPMO logo
    Organization joins industry leaders and policymakers to advocate for resilient, efficient, and sustainable building practices.
    June 1, 2026
    SFA Saniflo
    Since launching its first “Hope Tank” in 2020, the organization has provided eco-friendly mobile shower and laundry services for homeless individuals.
    Company donates grinder and drain pumps to help Hope Vibes expand its mobile shower and laundry program for individuals experiencing homelessness.
    June 1, 2026
    Acme Boilers
    An overhead view of a prefabricated boiler house.
    Turnkey boiler systems avoid the risks and complexities that come with a boiler overhaul. Using modular parts streamlines the process even further.
    June 1, 2026