In 2019, PHCPPros launched the “Millennials On The Move” honorary listing in Plumbing Engineer, PHC News and The Wholesaler magazines. The listing was created to shed light on what is now the largest generation in the workforce, while also launching bigger conversations on topics such as industry recruiting, talent retention, leadership development and more. This year, we're expanding that conversation outside of what will become the annual print listing with our monthly “Millennials On The Move” newsletter.
In our July spotlight, we introduce you to Stephanie Sharp, marketing/business development director for Inland Sales Group!
PHCPPros: How did you get into the PHCP industry?
Sharp: I was looking for a job in the marketing/graphic design field and there happened to be the perfect position for me available within the family business, Inland Sales Group Inc. My father has been in the industry for 26 years and my husband is an outside salesman. His goal in hiring a marketing employee was to bolster the brand and move the industry towards a more digital, current landscape.
PHCPPros: What have been some of your career highlights so far?
Sharp: I have really enjoyed receiving feedback from our customers and manufacturers pertaining to our email blasts, social media presence and content creation. I have had the pleasure of helping to organize and participate in company events, which allows me to get to know more people. I have also enjoyed traveling with manufacturers, product trainings, participating in the AIM/R Annual Conference and attending KBIS.
PHCPPros: Are you affiliated with groups and organizations in the PHCP industry?
Sharp: I am affiliated with AIM/R and ASA Women in Industry. Inland Sales is also involved with ASPE.
PHCPPros: Do you have any mentors in the PHCP industry or otherwise?
Sharp: I have found everyone in the industry to be immensely helpful and insightful. All salespeople, showroom associates, and those on the manufacturer side have offered product knowledge, expertise and understanding. Some of our manufacturers have begun to bolster their marketing departments so it has been helpful to feed off their insights and practices.
PHCPPros: Do you consider yourself a mentor?
Sharp: I would not consider myself a mentor because this type of job in the plumbing industry is still relatively new. There are not many manufacturers reps who have a full-time marketing person, and so I have just been blazing the trail as best as I can. I'm thankful and excited for those who are doing the same!
PHCPPros: What does it mean for you to be featured as a PHCP Millennial On The Move?
Sharp: I'm very proud to be featured as a PHCP Millennial On The Move. As a whole, we are starting to see more young people join this industry and I think the marriage of aged experience and young adults can create an exciting new landscape for the plumbing, heating and cooling industries. I hope more millennials find the value in these types of jobs.
