The  International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Board of Directors has announced the creation of the subcommittee on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, which will explore means and methods to attract and nurture the next, more diverse generation of IAPMO members and leaders.

The subcommittee will be chaired by IAPMO board member Raymond Boyd, United Association assistant director of education and training, and will meet before the end of the year.

"It's immediately obvious to anybody who has visited or toured IAPMO World Headquarters that our organization values inclusiveness, equity and diversity in the workplace," said IAPMO CEO Dave Viola. "As our staff reflects the mosaic of people IAPMO serves worldwide, so too should the association's membership, chapter leadership, committees and Board of Directors."

"I applaud IAPMO for its commitment to create a diverse and inclusive organization and it is my honor to be the chair of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion subcommittee," Boyd said. "We have some of the most talented men and women working in our industry and it's our responsibility to let them know that they are welcome to be part of the IAPMO organization! Diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility are vital to every organization that wants to be successful in the future. We have to be comfortable going to places that we've never gone before and opening up doors for those who haven't had the opportunities."

"IAPMO's strength is, and has always been, our people," said IAPMO President David Gans. "As a leader in the plumbing community, IAPMO has a responsibility to ensure that our membership and leadership reflect the diversity of the people our industry serves. Consciously focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion will enhance all of the work IAPMO does by inviting in new perspectives and drawing strength from our differences. The board is committed to this important work that will keep IAPMO strong well into its second century.

"I am very proud the board has taken action on this challenge and know that together we will succeed in this endeavor."