In an effort to spotlight exemplary young professionals in our industry and learn from their insights and experiences, PHCPPros presents our Generation PHCP Class of 2025!

Our seventh annual young professional feature recognizes those aged 40 and under who are making a mark in plumbing, heating, cooling and piping. Join us as we celebrate 15 exemplary individuals for carrying the torch from previous generations and keeping the PHCP community burning bright — and learn about their journey through our industry, thoughts on how we can better recruit and retain young professionals, and advice they would give to newcomers.

The following are synopses of honorees’ answers to a series of identical questions. Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.

Brianna Basile, PE
Mechanical Engineer 
HGA 

At architectural and engineering firm HGA, Basile collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to design comfortable, functional and enjoyable buildings in the healthcare, public corporate and creative arts industries. She is also a member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). Outside of her profession, Basile enjoys spending time with friends and pursuing hobbies like running and knitting, which help her recharge, find balance and do her best work. 

While studying architecture at school, a professor used the following analogy Basile will never forget: “The built environment is a fishbowl, and mechanical engineers keep the water clean and healthy for the fish to thrive.” From then on, Basile knew she wanted to be part of creating enjoyable and healthy spaces for people to live.  

Basile’s career highlights include seeing how her projects serve their communities, such as UMPC’s Presbyterian Expansion — a beacon of patient care and comfort for Pittsburgh — and the Lake Waconia Regional Park Service Center — sustainable and energy-efficient buildings where Minnesotans can gather throughout the year. 

“When entering the PHCP industry, I did not realize how essential communication would be,” she says. “Technical skills are essential, but without the ability to clearly share design intent and ideas with owners, contractors and teammates, projects cannot succeed.” 

Basile says she would not be where she is today without the mentors she has had along the way.  

“I believe mentoring is a lifelong exchange of knowledge that can go in both directions,” she says. “With new hires, I try to pass on the lesson and knowledge I have learned from my mentors while encouraging them to find their own paths. We need to support young professionals to find parts of the industry they are interested in, so they continue to engage and advance in their careers.” 

Basile advises such young professionals to ask questions as well. 

“Every person has a different experience and perspective that can teach you something valuable,” she says. “Keep an open mind — you never know what will spark a passion or interest that can shape your career path.” 

Mallory Bott
Channel Marketing Manager
Gerber Plumbing Fixtures 

Bott leads the wholesale marketing strategy in her role at Gerber Plumbing Fixtures. Her responsibilities include overseeing display rollouts, Sales Performance Incentive Fund (SPIFF) promotions, commercialization planning and other key initiatives that support partners and strengthen the company’s presence in the wholesale market. She also volunteers with American Supply Association (ASA) Women in Industry, serving on the social committee to help foster connection and engagement within the group. 

Joining the industry in 2016, Bott says what started as a transition from sales into marketing quickly grew into a passion for the plumbing industry and its people.  

“I discovered a strong sense of community and realized I truly fit right in,” she says. “That experience set the foundation for my career and continues to drive my enthusiasm for supporting and growing within this industry.” 

Some of Bott’s career highlights include traveling to different regions to collaborate with rep agencies and customers; attending and supporting major industry tradeshows; and continuing to grow both her career and professional network. 

 Bott believes the industry can better recruit and retain individuals by emphasizing the strong network within the PHCP industry. She suggests highlighting mentorship, collaboration and opportunities to connect with experienced professionals to help newcomers feel supported and engaged.  

“I consider myself an emerging mentor in the industry,” she says. “While I’m still growing in my own career, I strive to be a supportive leader and resource for others.” 

So, what has surprised her most about this industry? Just how fun plumbing can be! Bott advises industry newcomers to “dive in” and take every opportunity to meet people and learn new things. 

“Building connections and gaining hands-on experience are the best ways to grow and succeed,” she says. 

Zack Dees
Southeast Florida Sales
Marsh & Moore 

At manufacturers’ representative agency Marsh & Moore, Dees ensures the company’s plumbing products are positioned for success in the Southeast Florida market by managing relationships with distributors, contractors and engineers. His day-to-day tasks include pursuing new sales opportunities, providing technical support and conducting jobsite trainings.  

“I try to be the bridge between my manufacturers and the end users who install our products every day,” he says.  

Dees entered the PHCP industry through an opportunity with one of Marsh & Moore’s current manufacturers, where he learned about the immense potential within the field — turning that experience into a long-term career at Marsh & Moore.  

A career highlight for Dees within the wholesale distribution channel includes bringing in new product offerings and successfully driving a pull-through to market end users. He is also proud that he continues to build long-lasting relationships with contractors that rely on him and his line of manufacturers. 

Several people in the PHCP industry have helped mentor Dees throughout his career and he says each person has been instrumental in his growth as a professional — whether related to product knowledge or how he can carry himself with confidence and integrity daily.  

“I am thankful for those who have mentored me and I like to pass the torch any chance I am given to help mentor my peers,” Dees says. 

He feels the industry can better recruit and retain individuals through university career fairs. 

 “The more we build the PHCP network from the youth up, the greater the chance of longevity,” Dees says.  

When Dees first started his career within the industry, he was under the impression that it was slow to change but soon realized that it continuously innovates and moves toward finding better ways to perform. He recommends industry newcomers have an open mind and enter the industry without presumptions.  

“Ask as many questions as possible — there’s no such thing as a dumb question,” he says. “Be a sponge and soak up knowledge, expertise and anything beneficial to make you a better form of your professional self.” 

Michael Dumas
National Account Manager
MRC Global 

At MRC Global, Dumas works with branch/regional management and national accounts teams to achieve sales by developing strategic business plans, assisting with proposals, contracting research and negotiation and implementing strategies among other responsibilities. 

Dumas was drawn to the industry because it blends hands-on problem solving with essential, real-world impact. 

“Early on, I realized how much we rely on plumbing, heating and cooling systems for everyday health, safety and comfort — and I wanted to be part of maintaining and improving that infrastructure,” he says. 

Dumas has experienced the industry from multiple angles. On the manufacturing end, his career highlights include taking a deep dive into the technical side of the business. 

“Learning about forging processes and metallurgy gave me a strong foundation in how PVF products are made and why quality matters,” he says. 

Transitioning to the supplier side in his current role has been another major milestone for Dumas as he manages high-level relationships and helps deliver solutions. 

His mentors include Matt Kruger, Trey Casner, Caroline Capelle and Jon Doran, whose leadership within the PVF community has shown him the importance of industry involvement and giving back.  

For the past three years, Dumas has been an active member of the PVF Young Professionals, which is a part of the PVF Roundtable organization. The group is dedicated to promoting open dialogue across the pipe, valve and fitting community and helping the next generation by funding educational and training programs. 

“It’s been a great way to stay connected with others in the industry, exchange knowledge and contribute to the future of the PHCP field,” he says. 

To attract and keep young professionals in the PHCP industry, Dumas says it is important to connect with schools early and offer hands-on experience. 

“Updating the industry’s image by highlighting technology and clear career paths helps, too,” he says. 

His advice for individuals entering the PHCP industry is to “stay hungry for knowledge.” 

“In this field, knowledge really is power,” he says. “It’s also important to think outside the box and be open to creative solutions — that mindset can set you apart and help you succeed.” 

Jessica Gibson-Thomas
Wholesale Sales Coordinator
Preferred Sales Inc. 

Gibson-Thomas calls on Preferred Sales Inc.’s largest wholesalers to help structure their market with consistent service. She also works with the newest members of the team for onboarding and mentorship. Additionally, Gibson-Thomas is a member of ASA Women In Industry, Association of Independent Manufacturers Representatives Leaders of Tomorrow... Today (AIM/R LOT/T), Heat the Town Columbus, Operation Rise & Conquer veterans initiative, and Build Our Future.  

Before entering the industry, Gibson-Thomas worked in accounting, inventory, management and local brick-and-mortar restaurant startups. She recalls a group of plumbers and salesmen frequented an establishment at which she was employed. 

“One such salesman (I refer to affectionately as ‘the grandpa I don’t have’), had told me to bring him a resume, so I did,” she says. “Seven years later, here I am. He saw ‘more’ for my future and pushed me toward it.” 

Career highlights from her time in the industry so far include being named as a Milwaukee President’s Club Member; Milwaukee National Sales Rep of the Year; Milwaukee National Hand Tool Rep of the Year; and a Wolff Bros Preferred Partner.  

Among Gibson-Thomas’ mentors are Michelle Lewnes-Dadas, Wendy Hornak and Jessica Kolaitis. Reflecting on her role as a mentor, Gibson-Thomas says she is humbled to think the experiences she’s lived can be used to help support her team, as “collective knowledge is an incredibly powerful tool.” 

When it comes to recruiting and retaining young professionals, Gibson-Thomas says the industry “spends so much time looking for the perfect candidate that we overlook a good person who could be trained into a solid teammate.” She cites Preferred Sales’ introductory position that focuses on teaching the foundation of plumbing and HVAC as an example of making an effort to “find good people and give them the opportunity to learn the rest.” 

For newcomers, she relays the advice she received from the salesman who helped her to break into the industry: “One, answer their call. Two, answer their question. Three, call them back.” She adds, “If you care about your customers and their problems, you are showing up genuinely to be a good partner. Relationships matter and people take care of people in this industry!" 

Jeff Gilmer
Senior Director of Operations 
Porter Pipe & Supply 

Gilmer oversees and unifies all operations across Porter Pipe & Supply’s branches and directly manages the operations of its headquarters in Addison, Illinois. He was working for a chemical manufacturing company when the opportunity to join Porter Pipe & Supply presented itself.  

“After meeting with the CEO, Nick Porter, it wasn’t so much a decision to enter the PHCP industry as it was a decision to come on board an awesome company,” Gilmer says. “However, I’ve really come to enjoy the people I’ve met so far and the industry at large.” 

Gilmer is proud of the growth Porter Pipe & Supply has experienced in its markets and the company’s ability to continue to meet the operational requirements that comes with it. His favorite part of the job is connecting with customers outside of work; finding solutions to meet customers’ needs is another highlight.  

“The connections that suppliers have with their customers is something unique to this industry,” he says. “Coming from an industry where the supplier/customer relationship was distant, it is refreshing to work in one where you connect with the people you serve.” 

Nick Porter, Tom Farrell and Vistage group have provided Gilmer with valuable mentorship experiences. Since Gilmer entered the industry in a leadership position, he had to “lean on a lot of people” to understand the nuances. He also considers himself a mentor and finds it the most rewarding aspect of his position. 

“As leaders, we need to develop and mentor the next generation to come from behind and take our place,” he says. “Seeing team members develop and grow to reach their potential never gets old.”

Gilmer believes that to better recruit and retain individuals, the industry needs to show the value of the trades and provide mentorship and opportunity for growth. And his advice for industry newcomers? 

 “Don’t be afraid to ask questions and come to work eager to learn,” he says. “The industry feels complex, but people are always willing to help.” 

Megan Hessil
Plumbing Engineer 
SmithGroup 

Hessil’s role at SmithGroup is to develop and deliver flexible and efficient design solutions and provide quality documentation and calculations. She meets with clients early in the project’s development to discuss needs and goals, guiding interdisciplinary coordination of technical and functional requirements to ensure these objectives are fulfilled. Her involvement spans the design and construction lifecycle from programming through substantial completion.  

She is also affiliated with the Phoenix American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) chapter. 

Hessil has always known she wanted to be an engineer. Early in her education, she was provided the opportunity to focus on STEM classes. She rigorously pursued the engineering route through her university and was thrilled SmithGroup offered her a full-time position after graduation. 

A career highlight for Hessil was working on Arizona State University’s new Interdisciplinary Science and Technology Building — a multilevel research and educational facility.  

“No matter the project or its location, each effort allows me to undertake a unique design challenge,” she says. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to be a part of the process and watch plans become a physical structure.” 

Among Hessil’s mentors include her father, who has run a successful plumbing business for decades and initiated her interest in plumbing. From a design perspective, her mentors include her senior project and discipline leaders who frequently push her to become a better engineer through design and teamwork. 

“Mentoring emerging engineers enables me to provide others with the same knowledge and opportunities that I was given to thrive,” she says.  

Hessil believes that “to recruit is to market.” She thinks the industry is undermarketed at all levels of education, and that helping students understand the range of specializations and opportunities the field offers would support greater industry recruitment and retention. 

To industry newcomers, Hessil places emphasis on being flexible.  

“There is a lot that goes on within the industry such as continuous code updates and the evolution of designs and technology,” she says. “Being open-minded to industry changes while also determining a successful process goes a long way.” 

Zach Holt
Vice President 
Holt Supply 

Holt leads Holt Supply’s plumbing, HVAC and lighting divisions. His primary focus is on strategic planning, leadership, operational excellence, and building strong relationships with customers and vendors.  

Outside of work, he enjoys traveling and cooking with his “kind and caring” wife, hanging out with their dog, Hank, and playing golf — all parts of Holt’s life that keep him grounded and balance the “fast-paced nature” of leadership. 

Growing up in the industry, Holt worked in the warehouse, delivered orders and met with customers early on. After playing college baseball and working in finance, he realized his heart was still with the family business.  

“The relationships, hands-on nature of the work and impact we have on communities drew me back,” he says. “It felt natural to return to Holt Supply and continue building on the foundation I grew up with.” 

Holt is proud of the transformation the company has made internally — streamlining systems, expanding into new markets and enhancing product and service offerings. Watching the team culture evolve and seeing strategic initiatives come to life has been incredibly rewarding for him.  

He continues to be inspired by the integrity, strategic mindset and entrepreneurial spirit of his father, Andy. Holt also enjoys coaching others, sharing insights and helping people understand the “why” behind decisions. 

“We need to show young professionals that this industry offers real growth, purpose and impact,” Holt says. “Creating a culture that values flexibility, innovation and work-life balance is key.”  

He believes leveraging technology and emphasizing the meaningful role the industry plays in communities can make our industry more attractive.  

“When people see their work matters, they’re more likely to stay and thrive,” he says.  

Holt advises industry newcomers to be proactive, responsive and open to learning.  

“This industry has deep roots and a wealth of knowledge — don’t be intimidated by it,” he says. “Find a mentor, ask questions and stay curious. Your ideas and energy matter. With time and effort, you’ll gain confidence and expertise. The PHCP industry rewards those who are committed, empathetic and willing to grow. It’s a place where you can build a meaningful and lasting career.” 

Tony Lewis 
Area Sales Manager
NIBCO  

Covering Arizona and Las Vegas at NIBCO, Lewis supports contractors, engineers and distributors in product selection, training and project execution. He leads sales efforts of multiple product categories, manages large-scale project opportunities, assists with value engineering and helps drive press system adoption in key markets.  

When he’s not working, you can find him on the lake with his “avid boating family,” including his two sons who keep Lewis “on his toes” and give him perspective on “what really matters.” 

“Whether at work or on the water, I try to bring energy, balance and appreciation into everything I do,” Lewis says. 

With family in the plumbing industry for more than five generations, Lewis says working in the field is “in his blood.” He quickly developed a passion for plumbing and mechanical systems when he started in project management for government and hospital jobs. Lewis then shifted into sales to make a broader impact and continue his family’s legacy in a “modern and meaningful way.” 

During his time at NIBCO, Lewis has helped expand the company’s products into the emerging data center space — building strong relationships while leading major conversions. He finds that helping contractors and engineers adopt new systems and winning key projects has been especially rewarding.  

“Supporting the growth of an evolving market while driving change and trust in the field has been a true highlight,” Lewis says.  

Lewis has also had great mentorship experiences and believes in paying it forward. To better recruit and retain young professionals, he believes the industry needs to offer more mentorship programs and clear growth paths. 

“This industry has huge potential, but we need to tell our story better,” he says. “PHCP work is essential, rewarding and full of opportunity. Young professionals want purpose and this industry offers just that.” 

He advises industry newcomers to “never stop learning.”  

“Ask questions, build relationships and be willing to get your hands dirty,” he says. “The more you understand, the more valuable you become. Take pride in the work and surround yourself with people who push you to grow. It’s a rewarding field for those who stay curious and committed.” 

Brooke O’Bryant
Vendor Relations Lead
Hajoca Corp. 

O’Bryant is responsible for managing and strengthening relationships between Hajoca and the vendor partners that supply and service the organization. She is also active in several industry associations, including ASA, the Southern Wholesalers Association (SWA) and Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI).  

During her free time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, Cory (23 countries and counting), playing with their pup, Stella, and working with a nonprofit that has raised more than $2 million for local charities. 

O’Bryant says that her career in the PHCP industry “was pure, dumb luck.” Five years ago while working in the IT space, a third party recruited her to Hajoca. She is thankful every day that she accepted.  

During her first few months in the role, O’Bryant met with a vendor looking to become a bigger and better partner with Hajoca.  

“We negotiated a rebate program and a strategic plan for growth, and three years later, we have grown significantly together and knocked every goal out of the park,” she says of the career highlight.  

Along the way, her “biggest cheerleader” has been Shannon Mercil, who offered O’Bryant the role for vendor relations three years ago and has been instrumental in getting O’Bryant to where she is today. 

When it comes to recruitment and retention, O’Bryant cites her own company as a shining example, as it seeks out young professionals and trains them through a development program.  

“I think that’s the key — most young adults don’t know how amazing our world and our customers are, and it’s our job to show them,” she says.  

And her advice for those entering the industry? 

“Listen to those around you,” she says. “We aren’t just selling toilets orwater heaters. We are helping people live the dreams they have for themselves. Go alongside them, really listen to what their dreams are and figure out a way to help them get there.” 

Tristen Ortega
Account Manager 
Worldwide Pipe & Supply 

At Worldwide Pipe & Supply, Ortega focuses on solving critical challenges and building lasting relationships with engineering, procurement and construction contractors (EPCs) and end users. The last year and a half has been eventful for him, as he stepped into a sales position, got married and became a father. 

Ortega’s PVF career began in shipping before moving to machining and eventually quality assurance. He gained resilience by starting at “the bottom” — putting in long summers at hot warehouses and winters on freezing concrete floors. Reaching a sales role was a personal goal of his, and doing so has been one of his proudest achievements. 

“Those experiences taught me the technical foundation, but it was the mentorship and connections that helped me grow into sales,” he says. “What started as uncertainty became passion.” 

These mentors include his uncle, Mike Hernandez, a sales manager; and his father, Elias, a heat treat manager. Together, they have shaped the way Ortega approaches challenges and opportunities in his career. Ortega is also actively involved with the PVF Roundtable, which he says has provided him with mentorship, friendships and opportunities to stay connected with others in the industry. 

When asked how the industry can better recruit and retain individuals, Ortega says putting current young leaders in front of the next generation — speaking directly to students at schools, colleges and trade programs — helps them see the exciting opportunities available and hear firsthand about the impact a career in PHCP can have.  

His advice to industry newcomers is to set clear career goals and create a plan to achieve them. 

“Stay consistent in your efforts, keep learning and don’t be afraid to work hard and challenge yourself,” Ortega says. “Surround yourself with people who inspire you and remember that building strong relationships and a reputation for reliability goes a long way in this industry.” 

Rene Renaud
Instructor
PHCC San Diego  

As an instructor for the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (PHCC) San Diego chapter, Renaud has developed an efficient curriculum for plumbing apprentices based around National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) principles and guidelines. 

Renaud says the opportunity to enter the industry “just fell in his lap.” His first employer in the trades sponsored him through a four-year apprenticeship program. Provided by the PHCC San Diego chapter, it required both on-the-job training and the successful completion of coursework.  

“With a varied background revolving around the automotive and fabrication industry, the trades really spoke to my mechanical aptitude,” he adds. 

During his apprenticeship, Renaud competed in an apprenticeship contest, placing first in California and ninth in the nation.  

“Embracing the challenges of learning new things and pushing myself to become the best I could be gradually allowed me to move into supervisorial and managerial roles,” he says.  

Renaud met his wife three weeks after entering the trade and thanks her for sticking by his side through the long hours between work and school. Others he would like to thank include his mentors along the way — Dave Boyer, Rick Garcia, John Krempp Jr., Juri Peterson, Steve Hesson and Dan Valadez — each of whom played a meaningful role in his professional growth.  

Renaud believes the industry can better recruit and retain young professionals by promoting the trades as viable career paths, as well as trade school organizations such as PHCC — where the staff makes all the difference in promoting growth and success. 

“When I challenge my students through the coursework, they get a sparkle in their eye when the information clicks. There is no greater feeling,” he says.  

To industry newcomers, Renaud offers the following advice: “Challenge yourself, dedicate yourself and never feel like you are stuck. There is always a way forward and while the work is hard, it is extremely rewarding.”  

Alexy Rollins
CEO and Founder
Loyalty Plumbing 

At Loyalty Plumbing, Rollins oversees strategic growth, daily operations and financial performance. She mentors staff, manages marketing and brand development and implements systems to keep projects on time and within budget.  

Outside of her job, Rollins is a mother of four and founder of the Golden Retriever Club of Southern Nevada, which combines her passions for service, leadership and community. 

She entered the plumbing industry after recognizing the need for a company that combined technical excellence with genuine customer care. 

“I wanted to create a business where employees could grow, customers felt valued and service exceeded expectations,” she says. “Starting Loyalty Plumbing from scratch allowed me to break barriers as a woman in a male-dominated field, bring a fresh perspective and build a brand rooted in reliability, culture and community involvement.” 

Rollins’ career highlights include founding and growing Loyalty Plumbing into a $3.5 million award-winning, family-owned business recognized as Best Plumber of Las Vegas. 

“At first, I underestimated the impact we have on people’s daily lives, but I’ve come to see that our work goes far beyond fixing pipes — it’s about solving problems, building trust and creating lasting relationships,” she says. 

Throughout her time in the industry, Rollins has found that building relationships with other innovators and tradespeople has been invaluable, and she credits those connections with shaping her leadership style and expanding her perspective. Rollins is also passionate about guiding team members in developing their technical skills, leadership abilities and confidence. 

“Retention comes from strong mentorship, clear advancement paths and creating a culture where employees feel valued and supported,” she says. “Offering modern training, competitive pay and work-life balance ensures young professionals see this as a rewarding long-term career, not just a job.” 

Her advice to someone entering the industry is to be open to learning and never stop asking questions. 

“Find mentors, seek hands-on experience and invest in both your technical skills and your communication skills,” she adds. “The industry offers stability, great earning potential and the chance to truly make a difference in people’s lives.”

Haylee Simpson
Senior Strategic Marketing Director
Morris Group International 

Simpson manages cross-divisional initiatives supporting Morris Group International’s (MGI) 28 divisions, including plumbing products central to the PHCP industry. This work connects her directly to the PHCP community, where the company strengthens visibility, highlights innovation and supports the industry’s growth and long-standing impact. 

With no prior industry experience at the time, Simpson still remembers feeling overwhelmed in her interview with MGI as she tried to grasp the breadth of what the company manufactures and supports.  

“Over time, I’ve come to appreciate the industry’s vital role in everyday life,” she says. “What began as a learning curve has grown into a rewarding career contributing to the visibility and growth of innovative plumbing products.” 

Simpson’s career with MGI has evolved naturally. Starting in marketing, she managed events at the company’s City of Industry office. She transitioned to remote work with Whitehall Mfg., gaining valuable experience on the divisional side. In 2022, Simpson returned to marketing, advancing from project manager to strategic marketing lead and her current role.  

“Each step has deepened my understanding of both marketing and operations, but the greatest highlight has been the growth and opportunities created through strong relationships,” she says.  

One such relationship is her mentor, Charles White. Simpson says his guidance and insight have been invaluable in helping her navigate the PHCP industry and grow her career.  

“He has encouraged me to think strategically, build strong relationships and continually develop both professionally and personally,” she says. “I am eternally grateful for his support and mentorship.” 

Simpson says one of the greatest strengths of the PHCP industry is the loyalty of the many people who build lifelong careers within it; highlighting the stability, purpose and opportunities it offers is key for recruitment and retention. She also advises industry newcomers to “embrace curiosity.” 

“This industry is broad and deeply rooted in history, yet it continues to evolve in innovative ways,” she says. “Take the time to understand the essential role it plays in everyday life, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.” 

Jacob Verdin, PE, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Project Manager 
Smith Seckman Reid 

Verdin leads some of Smith Seckman Reid’s (SSR) mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) project teams, works with architects and owners and oversees the design aspects of multiple projects. As a member of SSR’s Sports & Entertainment leadership group, he contributes to strategic planning and development that promotes the growth of the sports and entertainment market. He is also an active member of ASHRAE and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).  

During college, Verdin interned in various industries related to mechanical engineering. This fueled his passion for the built environment and sustainability. During his senior year, he took a class taught by someone at SSR — introducing him to the world of engineering consulting and the company he works for to this day.  

His work has exposed him to all five major U.S. professional sports leagues, as well as clients in college and community settings. Some of his favorite projects include working on Allegiant Stadium and the Huber Center at Vanderbilt University. Throughout his career, he has also mentored and trained several new college graduates. 

“In my experience, engaging young professionals early is vital in the recruitment process,” Verdin says. He notes that opportunities like supporting professional society chapters at local colleges and universities, as well as STEM organizations in the community, also help increase exposure to the industry.  

“I believe that once people understand the impact and scale of our industry, it becomes much easier to expand their interest and attract top talent,” he adds.  

His advice for industry newcomers is to get involved and look for opportunities to learn from others.  

“The knowledge and experience I’ve gained by engaging with other professionals in the field have been invaluable to my career growth,” he says. “A large part of the satisfaction I find in my career comes from the people and relationships I’ve been able to build over the years.”