On April 15, 2025, the International Code Council and United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA) signed an agreement that underscores both organizations’ unwavering commitment to the hardworking tradesmen and tradeswomen of the plumbing, mechanical fuel gas (PMG) industries.

The UA represents approximately 384,000 plumbers, pipefitters, sprinkler fitters, HVACR service technicians, welders and pipeliners working in the construction industry throughout North America.

This collaboration underscores the Code Council’s commitment to supporting skilled trades and producing more well-rounded PMG-related codes, standards and other industry publications. The Code Council and the UA will continue to work together to help train the next generation of plumbers, pipefitters and mechanical contractors. Under this agreement, both organizations will advocate for improved plumbing infrastructure that supports public health.  

 “This collaborative effort reflects the Code Council’s deep understanding of the critical role skilled labor plays in shaping safe, sustainable and resilient communities,” said Code Council CEO John Belcik. “It’s a testament to our shared mission — to elevate codes and standards, uphold safety and foster a thriving labor force that reflects the future of our industry.”

 “The men and women of the United Association are the best-trained and most highly skilled craftspeople in the world, and we are proud to work each day to protect the health of our nations,” said Mark McManus, general president of the United Association. “Our partnership with the Code Council will ensure that we continue this important work keeping our communities safe and upholding the highest codes and standards. We are thrilled to enter into this agreement and to ensure that the voices of the men and women performing this work is well-represented in the codes and standards that govern our industry.”