Already excelling in the plumbing profession while still learning, Valerie Butler was honored recently as the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association’s (PHCC) 2025 Plumbing Apprentice of the Year. Sponsored by Delta Faucet, the award was presented at PHCC CONNECT 2025 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Butler’s path into the trades is one of resilience and determination. After a medical separation from the Marine Corps in 2020, she sought a career that offered stability and growth. Inspired by conversations with her father, who works in the heating and boiler industry, she pursued plumbing.

“I was as green and green gets, but I wanted to learn,” she said.

Before beginning her apprenticeship, Butler spent two years in office roles as a coordinator and safety director, proving her dedication and drive to earn her place in the field.

Since beginning her apprenticeship, Butler has embraced every opportunity to learn and lead. Known for her positive attitude and “can-do” spirit, she approaches new challenges with determination and creativity – qualities that have also made her a mentor and advocate for other young women entering the plumbing trade. In 2022, she joined the PHCC of Indiana State and Executive Boards, where she played a key role in launching a statewide safety recognition program modeled after PHCC of Georgia’s ROPES Program. In 2024, she earned the PHCC Educational Foundation’s top scholarship, and she currently is completing her final year at the Mechanical Skills Plumbing Apprentice School. Her leadership and passion for the industry have also earned national recognition, most recently when CONTRACTOR magazine named her one of its “2025 Under 30 All Stars,” an honor reserved for the plumbing and HVACR industry’s rising leaders.

Butler’s technical skills have continued to shine on the jobsite. From threading pipe and t-drilling copper to operating equipment and running project layouts, she demonstrates precision, accuracy, and a commitment to quality. Remarkably, while still an apprentice, she has taken on responsibilities as a project manager for a large commercial project, overseeing daily operations, materials, and paperwork … all while maintaining her apprenticeship and office responsibilities.

Her dedication and impact extend beyond technical performance. Butler is respected by her co-workers as a dependable teammate, patient teacher, and resourceful problem solver. Whether guiding newer apprentices or supporting journeymen on complex tasks, she has become a trusted and valued member in the office and in the field.