The American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) is pleased to announce that Executive Director and CEO William M. “Billy” Smith, FASPE, has been awarded the Patrick J. Higgins Award & Medal from ASME International.

The Patrick J. Higgins Award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to the enhancement of standardization through active involvement in the development and promotion of ASME codes and standards or conformity assessment programs across various disciplines.

Smith has been named the 2025 recipient in recognition of his extensive experience, exceptional leadership, perseverance, and enthusiastic engagement as a key influencer in plumbing safety. His contributions span plumbing engineering, product standards, and building codes, with a consistent focus on protecting public health, safety, and efficiency within the industry.

As executive director/CEO of ASPE, Smith represents the organization on numerous codes and standards committees, often serving in leadership roles, for industry partners including ASHRAE, ASSE, ASTM, CIPH, CSA, IAPMO, ICC, PDI, and PMI. A former member of ASPE’s board of directors, he joined the staff in 2014 as Senior Director of Technical and Regulatory Affairs before being appointed Executive Director/CEO in 2015. Smith became an ASPE member in 1993 and was inducted into ASPE’s College of Fellows in 2012.

“I am very grateful and extremely humbled that ASME selected me to receive the Patrick J. Higgins Award,” Smith said. “In addition to the recognition of my many years of work with ASME, this award has special meaning for me considering my long-time, close, and enjoyable friendship with Pat Higgins.”