• Home >
  • Back Issues >
  • Contractor >
  • November 2026

    • November 2026

    Complex Renovation in Historic NH Building; New Law Seeks to Modernize Federal Permitting Process; Charles Goede Wins WorldSkills Medal; AHR Expo Announces Innovation Award Winners; Great Society: ASPE Holds its Convention & Expo; A Legacy of Service; and much more.

    More content from November 2026

    Lieskovan assumed the role August 1, 2026, and will become President and CEO when current CEO Larry Day retires in January 2027.
    Oct. 20, 2026
    The funding will support development of PataBid’s Quantify estimating platform, supplier integrations and North American commercialization.
    Oct. 20, 2026
    More than 100 sessions will cover HVAC&R systems, building decarbonization, AI, data centers and thermal networks during the January conference in Chicago.
    Oct. 20, 2026
    ID 75918065 © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime.com
    Skyline of downtown Nashville, TN.
    The Oct. 18-21 event features code education, a session on lessons from the Champlain Towers South investigation, and hands-on career experiences for local high school students...
    Oct. 20, 2026
    The new Rising Leaders course bridges technical apprenticeship training and business education with eight instructional units focused on self-management, teamwork and professional...
    Oct. 20, 2026
    Heath will lead the strategy and long-term direction of Oatey’s U.S. distribution network, with a focus on operational performance, technology, automation and customer service...
    Oct. 20, 2026
    trustinwater.com
    trustinwater.com logo
    Trust in Water highlights the economic returns of modernizing drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems, as the United States faces an estimated $3.4 trillion investment...
    Oct. 20, 2026
    A gallery of products an innovations on display at ASPE's 2026 Expo in Oklahoma City.
    Oct. 19, 2026
    The biennial event featured a range of technical sessions, award presentations, and networking opportunities, demonstrating the society's commitment to advancing plumbing engineering...
    Oct. 19, 2026
    This week's gallery continues the focus on trucks with an enclosed service truck body, truck bed liners, transfer tanks, a pickup truck, and more.
    Oct. 16, 2026
    ID 20206447 © Shelley Coleman | Dreamstime.com
    Downtown Chicago, IL, site of the 2027 AHR Expo.
    Annual awards recognize products and technologies evaluated for innovative design, practical applications and potential market impact, with entry fees also supporting workforce...
    Oct. 16, 2026
    ID 201211994 © Prasert Krainukul | Dreamstime.com
    Sets of cooling towers on top of a data center building.
    The long-term viability of an AI data center will be influenced by whether its systems can adaptably accept new thermal demands without jeopardizing either reliability or constructabili...
    Oct. 16, 2026
    ID 64675244 © Goodluz | Dreamstime.com
    customer service representative
    How plumbing and HVAC contractors can automate routine customer communication, bring customers back for maintenance, and reduce repetitive office work.
    Oct. 15, 2026
    ID 1894581 © Susan Quinland Stringer | Dreamstime.com
    drainage pipe against a blue background
    With this guide, professionals can understand how wastewater planning affects the efficiency, reliability, maintenance needs and compliance of plumbing and mechanical system design...
    Oct. 15, 2026
    ID 3567659 © Aleksandar Radovanovic | Dreamstime.com
    missed calls on phone display
    Unanswered calls silently drain your business profits. Measure, identify, and plug these leaks to boost revenue without extra marketing expenses.
    Oct. 15, 2026
    Replacing a nearly seventy-year-old boiler in a historic home means understanding system history to inform modern upgrades.
    Oct. 15, 2026
    Plumbing Manufacturers International’s 2026 report explores how international collaboration, technology partnerships and supply chain strategies help manufacturers develop and...
    Oct. 15, 2026
    The new American National Standard and National Standard of Canada incorporates contemporary fixture flow rates, water-efficient appliance considerations and real-world usage ...
    Oct. 15, 2026
    ID 18854207 © Celso Diniz | Dreamstime.com
    civil construction site with materials
    The October 15 BLS report shows a 1.3% monthly rise in the Producer Price Index, the largest since March 2022, with significant increases in construction input and energy prices...
    Oct. 15, 2026
    ID 222113623 © Maryia Nenahliadava | Dreamstime.com
    'jack of all trades' concept.
    Taking licensed trades and turning them over to unlicensed or mis-licensed people is, in this columnist’s opinion, a recipe for disaster.
    Oct. 14, 2026
    ID 26872722 © Anthony Aneese Totah Jr | Dreamstime.com
    Milwaukee, WI, site of the 2026 PHCC CONNECT.
    The Infiniti GC tankless water heater and eF XT commercial gas water heater will be featured at the Oct. 19-22 conference, with product discussions focused on contractor challenges...
    Oct. 14, 2026
    The Oct. 20 event in New York City will explore how AI, evolving search behavior and digital advertising are changing how homeowners find and select plumbing, HVAC and other home...
    Oct. 14, 2026
    The North Andover event combined career presentations, backflow prevention training and hands-on product work to introduce students to the skills used in the plumbing industry...
    Oct. 13, 2026
    ID 33158650 © Yiu Tung Lee | Dreamstime.com
    group of construction workers on scaffolding
    Rising material and labor costs put pressure on profitability, but contractors remain confident about future growth.
    Oct. 13, 2026
    The new California facility combines product development, engineering, testing and hands-on training to strengthen feedback between North American contractors, distributors and...
    Oct. 13, 2026
    Backed by institutional capital from Exuma Capital Partners, the platform brings together residential service brands across more than 15 states.
    Oct. 13, 2026
    ID 10887984 © Adamgregor | Dreamstime.com
    close up of hands washing
    Global Handwashing Day raises awareness of the importance of handwashing with soap, which is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help prevent diarrheal diseases and...
    Oct. 13, 2026
    The industry is shifting towards integrated systems that leverage advanced controls and flexible fuel options, emphasizing the importance of contractor education and system adaptability...
    Oct. 12, 2026
    ID 140081948 © Mohamad Faizal Ramli | Dreamstime.com
    S Corp concept
    A defensible owner salary should reflect the work performed, market compensation and business circumstances—not simply the desire to minimize payroll taxes.
    Oct. 9, 2026
    This week's gallery is all about truck bodies and truck accessories, such as ladder headache racks, systems, and toolboxes.
    Oct. 9, 2026
    The home services organization will focus on employee development, customer experience and operational support for its network of more than 20 partner brands.
    Oct. 9, 2026
    ID 2942352 © Alberto Dubini | Dreamstime.com
    Capitol Hill, Washington, DC
    Introduced by Senators Capito, Heinrich, Lee, and Whitehouse, the legislation seeks to streamline reviews, standardize comment periods, and protect valid permits, though it faces...
    Oct. 9, 2026
    Varton brings more than 30 years of engineering and product development experience, while Machuga will lead the company’s digital strategy and continued development of AI capabilities...
    Oct. 9, 2026
    The 2026 scholarship class includes 52 apprentices and trade school students and 28 college students pursuing plumbing, HVAC and related studies.
    Oct. 8, 2026
    Rasmussen Mechanical Services modernizes Green Plains Central City’s boiler system and installs a waste-heat recovery system to reduce emissions.
    Oct. 8, 2026
    Year two of the partnership brings volunteers to Wood Lake Nature Center to restore native habitat, improve water quality and protect critical wildlife land.
    Oct. 8, 2026
    New 16,000-square-foot laboratory and showroom at the Midea America Research Center support product development, testing and contractor training.
    Oct. 8, 2026
    The award recognizes Merit’s commitment to independent PVF distribution through service, collaboration and long-term distributor partnerships.
    Oct. 8, 2026
    The first annual event brought home service professionals together across 98 cities and 46 states for networking, peer discussions and business-building conversations.
    Oct. 7, 2026
    General Pipe Cleaners
    The JM3080 in use.
    High-pressure water jetting has become the preferred method for drain cleaning across various industries due to its superior ability to remove grease, sludge, and ice.
    Oct. 7, 2026
    Addressing Legionella in commercial water systems requires a holistic approach involving system layout, temperature regulation, and ongoing maintenance.
    Oct. 7, 2026
    ID 132731148 © 3calado3 | Dreamstime.com
    construction site
    The nonresidential construction sector experienced its fifth consecutive month of growth in August, fueled by a significant increase in data center investments.
    Oct. 7, 2026
    Students from five South Carolina high schools explored advanced manufacturing technologies and career opportunities during a hands-on facility visit.
    Oct. 7, 2026
    Wholesale channel partners and their contractor customers can earn a $150 tool credit on qualifying Commercial Gas Tank and Tankless units.
    Oct. 7, 2026
    The Mechanicville-based company becomes Rocket Group’s 13th brand, expanding the network into the Capital Region.
    Oct. 6, 2026
    Particularly in retrofit applications, optimal performance will depend on accurate load calculations, supply water temperature management, and emitter compatibility.
    Oct. 6, 2026
    Using antimicrobial, abrasion-resistant coatings can proactively prevent Microbiologically Induced Corrosion (MIC)-related damage in plumbing components, extending service life...
    Oct. 6, 2026
    ID 336842714 © Nomadsoul1 | Dreamstime.com
    man with plumbing supplies
    The better approach? To build a little flexibility into purchasing, inventory and storage before the next shortage hits.
    Oct. 6, 2026
    From the Royal Flushometer to connected restroom technologies, Sloan’s evolution reflects changing demands for performance, efficiency and sustainability.
    Oct. 6, 2026
    Students from two Williamson County high schools toured the facility, connected classroom learning to real-world applications and met with APCOM employees.
    Oct. 6, 2026
    The manufacturer welcomed the TV host and CEO of the mikeroweWORKS Foundation to its Defiance, Ohio facility.
    Oct. 6, 2026
    Dewi will oversee Product Certification, Systems Certification Body and Continuous Compliance operations while guiding growth and collaboration across IAPMO R&T.
    Oct. 5, 2026
    Innovations in heat pump technology, especially using transcritical CO₂ cycles, enable high-temperature water delivery up to 180°F, expanding retrofit options and supporting electrifica...
    Oct. 5, 2026
    After more than two years of competition and preparation, Sposito became the first woman to represent the United States in WorldSkills welding.
    Oct. 5, 2026
    The sixth annual construction technology report examines how contractors are using wearables, AI, drones, data and connected jobsite tools to reduce risk.
    Oct. 5, 2026
    ID 413769012 © Korn Vitthayanukarun | Dreamstime.com
    maintenance worker with tablet computer
    The industry keeps widening the recruiting pipeline. It sees no fix for the drain. The increasing cognitive complexity of modern plumbing and hydronic systems quietly pushes experienced...
    Oct. 5, 2026
    Digital tools can reduce repetitive tasks, improve consistency and give estimators more time to focus on the judgment calls that determine whether a project is worth pursuing....
    Oct. 2, 2026
    The heating, cooling and water heating manufacturer acquired land next to its 56-year-old Fort Smith campus to support future capacity and growth.
    Oct. 2, 2026
    Attendees can explore water heaters, boilers, tankless systems, leak detection technology and commercial heating equipment at Booth #815.
    Oct. 2, 2026
    This week's gallery highlights outdoor kitchen faucets; commercial electric tank water heaters; a new commercial bathroom PVD finish; a sink drain kit that moves the P-trap to...
    Oct. 2, 2026
    ID 4697962 © Lawrence Wee | Dreamstime.com
    workers shaking hands on a construction site
    September data shows a consistent increase in construction employment, with nonresidential sectors leading the growth, especially in data centers.
    Oct. 2, 2026
    ID 187824680 © BiancoBlue | Dreamstime.com
    AI assistant concept art
    It’s a short-listed, high-stakes decision— and what the AI assistant shares with prospective customers is, largely, pulled from the contractor’s own website.
    Oct. 2, 2026
    ID 34892559 © 45chloe | Dreamstime.com
    construction materials
    Proactive material planning strategies can reduce delays, improve labor efficiency, and adapt to supply chain disruptions.
    Oct. 1, 2026
    The UA Local 777 apprentice competed against 32 top young tradespeople from around the world, completing complex plumbing and mechanical installations under tight time limits....
    Oct. 1, 2026
    The latest graduating class completed hands-on installations at NTI’s new campus while preparing to enter a growing skilled-trades workforce.
    Oct. 1, 2026
    The manufacturer is marking its anniversary by recognizing associates and investing in technical training and the next generation of manufacturing professionals.
    Oct. 1, 2026
    New fact sheet outlines how employers and workers can prepare for opioid-related emergencies, recognize overdose symptoms and respond with reversal medications.
    Oct. 1, 2026
    The Dallas-area company has grown from a one-man plumbing business into a third-generation operation serving generations of North Texas homeowners.
    Sept. 30, 2026
    The new company combines fire protection, pipe joining, flow control and structural support products into a connected systems portfolio for engineers, contractors and distributors...
    Sept. 30, 2026
    The $2.92 billion transaction expands Harrison Street’s district energy infrastructure portfolio and adds a platform serving more than 700 customers across 12 major US cities....
    Sept. 30, 2026
    Simplar Foundation study finds fewer trade-to-trade handoffs can improve workflow continuity and reduce elapsed time on tightly sequenced construction activities.
    Sept. 30, 2026
    ServiceTitan’s 2026 State of AI in the Trades Report examines how HVAC, plumbing, electrical and other contractors are using AI and the barriers limiting adoption.
    Sept. 29, 2026
    Downie brings more than 20 years of building products and plumbing industry experience to GF’s US sales leadership team.
    Sept. 29, 2026
    ID 69321778 © Yongnian Gui | Dreamstime.com
    construction workers on a job site.
    Construction employment data shows fewer layoffs in August, amid a decline in job openings, highlighting a complex labor market where demand for skilled workers remains high amid...
    Sept. 29, 2026
    Three longtime Pennsylvania manufacturers mark Manufacturing Day with a limited-edition product collaboration and a focus on skilled workers and local workforce development.
    Sept. 29, 2026
    New research compares trade careers with four-year degrees as DECKED launches a campaign to promote the skilled trades.
    Sept. 29, 2026
    ID 204823376 © Elnur | Dreamstime.com
    private equity concept art
    Organic growth is the only kind that compounds. It is harder to start and far harder to copy, which is precisely why it lasts.
    Sept. 29, 2026
    Competition in Shanghai highlights workforce shortages and the need for expanded vocational training worldwide.
    Sept. 29, 2026
    ID 5825884 © Michael Flippo | Dreamstime.com
    Construction Worker at Site.
    QBE North America’s 2026 outlook examines data center expansion, labor shortages, cost volatility and a slowing project pipeline.
    Sept. 28, 2026
    ID 346220682 | Ai Marketing © Rafael Henrique | Dreamstime.com
    artificial intelligence icons
    While AI lowers barriers and democratizes marketing capabilities, success still hinges on understanding your audience, crafting a clear strategy, and leveraging human judegment...
    Sept. 28, 2026
    ID 16950410 © Dmitry Kalinovsky | Dreamstime.com
    an engineer in the boiler room
    A practical way for hydronic contractors to check whether an insurance renewal reflects the jobs they actually perform.
    Sept. 28, 2026
    ID 371194230 © Andrey Popov | Dreamstime.com
    customer signing agreement
    When a homeowner tells us the price is too high, they are almost never telling us the number is wrong. They are telling us the number does not match the value they understand....
    Sept. 28, 2026
    A conversation with IAPMO CEO Dave Viola as the organization marks its 100th Anniversary.
    Sept. 25, 2026