The plumbing, heating, cooling and piping (PHCP) industry is getting the attention it deserves — and its future is being shaped by the talented professionals choosing to build their careers in it.
For our eighth annual young professional feature, PHCPPros is proud to highlight 14 outstanding individuals age 40 and under who are making their mark across the PHCP community. These honorees represent the energy, expertise and fresh perspectives that will help carry the industry forward.
As the trades work to attract a new generation of talent, the voices and experiences of young professionals are more important than ever. In this year’s feature, our honorees share what brought them to the industry, what keeps them here, how the PHCP community can better recruit and retain the next generation, and what advice they would offer to those considering a career in the industry.
In an effort to spotlight these exemplary young professionals and learn from their insights and experiences, PHCPPros presents our Generation PHCP Class of 2026!
The following are abbreviated synopses of the honorees’ responses to a series of identical questions. Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.
Katherine Asa
Sales Manager, Lentus
“I used to believe salespeople were born, not made, and that you had to fit a certain personality to succeed. I’m proof that’s a misconception.”
Katherine Asa is a sales manager at Lentus, a master distributor serving the PHCP and HVACR industry with product lines including DOWSIL, Lentek, DuPont and Lucas Oil. She manages distributor accounts across the country, working with buyers to understand their needs, solve problems and ensure Lentus is a partner they can count on. Asa is also involved with the Southern Wholesalers Association (SWA), SWA Women in Leadership Committee, Girls Who Connect and the American Supply Association (ASA).
Asa started her career in a marketing role at a PVF manufacturer.
“Being close to how products are actually made gave me a real appreciation for the industry,” she says. “Once you see how much effort goes into the products we use without a second thought, it’s hard not to find it fascinating.”
One of the highlights of Asa’s career has been the relationships that have followed her from role to role.
“Moving from marketing on the manufacturing side into sales, I’ve found that the connections I build tend to last well beyond any single job,” she says. “I used to believe salespeople were born, not made, and that you had to fit a certain personality to succeed. I'm proof that's a misconception.
“Meeting so many different personalities across this industry showed me there's no single mold,” Asa continues. “The best people I’ve met succeed by staying true to themselves rather than performing some stereotype.”
She feels she has been lucky to have mentors, including her previous sales team at Ward Manufacturing and her current business development manager at Lentus, whom Asa calls a genuine leader and role model.
She has also started to mentor the next generation through groups such as Girls Who Connect. Asa says helping to develop programming has been especially rewarding, particularly when she sees young girls confidently trying hands-on tasks such as fixing a toilet or installing a sink — opportunities she wishes she had been exposed to at their age.
“Young people can’t choose a path they’ve never seen, which is why hands-on outreach matters,” she says. “Retention comes down to real investment: competitive pay that reflects the skill this work demands, plus mentorship and belonging.”
Her advice to those entering the PHCP industry is simple: Take advantage of continuing education opportunities.
“Get a certification, attend a networking event and just keep pushing outside your comfort zone until you find your place,” she says.
This recognition reminds Asa of the many people who have supported her along the way, including mentors, colleagues and those who welcomed her into the industry in the first place. Her “sweet, silly” daughter is what all this work is for, she says. She also credits her partner, Wade, and their “big lovable goofball” of a dog, Peaches.
Aiden Cloud
Territory Sales Manager, Pro Marketing Inc.
“Before entering the industry, I never really noticed how large and important it was to our world.”
In his role at manufacturing representative group Pro Marketing, Aiden Cloud builds relationships with wholesalers, contractors and engineers while establishing communications with decision makers and developing trusting relationships with his clients. He is also a member of the Atlanta Chapter of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).
After exploring opportunities in several industries after college, the PHCP industry caught Cloud’s attention when Pro Marketing reached out to him.
“I was excited to take on the challenge of competing in an ever-evolving industry with a group of people who truly cared about my success,” he says. “Before entering the industry, I never really noticed how large and important it was to our world.”
Just two months in the industry at the time of writing, Cloud feels some of his biggest career highlights so far have been doing hands-on work with the products his company represents and the relationships he has built with clients.
“Being someone they can trust to solve problems keeps me going every single day,” he says.
Cloud names Pro Marketing’s Shane Hamby as his greatest mentor.
“Shane has taken me under his wing and helped me build a solid foundation in the industry,” he says. “However, the whole Pro Marketing team has supported me and helped me learn the business.”
In his time in the industry, Cloud says everyone he has worked with has been patient as he navigates the growing pains of starting his career. He believes the industry should highlight its genial nature to let other young professionals know they will also be welcomed with open arms when they join.
Cloud’s advice to newcomers is to have an open mind.
“Also, be patient,” he says. “There is a lot to learn, and it can get overwhelming if you aren't patient and willing to learn.”
Kayla Donn
Office Manager, Rush Heating & Cooling Inc.
“When it gets difficult — and it will get difficult — just keep going. There is always more to learn.”
Kayla Donn’s responsibilities at Rush Heating & Cooling include equipment selection and orders for installations. She also helps technicians verify warranty information and order parts for repairs, and she assists with service dispatching and installation scheduling. Donn’ grandfather started Rush in 1948, and she has been working at the business full time for 16 years alongside her family and husband.
“So much has changed since I started, but I truly enjoy being a part of this industry,” she says. “Being able to share our experiences together as a family is really important.”
Donn enjoys working on equipment selection for existing and new construction homes. A recent career highlight was being a part of a project that involved installing an HVAC system at a large historical home
“I think a lot of people have misconceptions about what HVAC really is,” she adds. “The equipment and controls are more complex than most realize.”
Donn names her family as her greatest mentors and says they keep each other accountable, strive to learn and grow together, and all work together to solve problems and take care of coworkers and customers. She likes helping others as well.
“I try to find information for our technicians and anyone in the office that needs assistance,” she says. “I think this is a great industry, and I hope to encourage others so they can enjoy it as much as I do.”
To better recruit and retain young professionals, Donn believes the industry needs to spread awareness of the trades to high school and college students.
“A career in the trades can be very rewarding,” she says. “I think a lot of young adults have the wrong impression. This industry is challenging, but with the right attitude and mindset, there are endless opportunities.”
Donn echoes that sentiment when it comes to her advice for industry newcomers.
“When it gets difficult — and it will get difficult — just keep going,” she says. “There is always more to learn.”
Emily Hershberger
Visual Brand Manager, NIBCO Inc.
“Many people outside the industry do not realize how much expertise, technology and collaboration go into delivering solutions that support critical infrastructure and everyday life.”
In her role at NIBCO, Emily Hershberger helps shape how the company’s brand is presented to customers and external partners. Her responsibilities include brand strategy, visual identity, creative direction, trade show design support, advertising and developing tools that tell NIBCO’s brand story while supporting business growth. She also stays actively involved in the industry through organizations such as Women in Plumbing & Piping (WIPP).
Hershberger entered the PHCP industry when she joined NIBCO in October 2017. She was drawn to the opportunity to combine creativity with business strategy, and NIBCO offered her the chance to work with products that make a real impact.
Hershberger was surprised by just how innovative and relationship-driven the PHCP industry is.
“Many people outside the industry do not realize how much expertise, technology and collaboration go into delivering solutions that support critical infrastructure and everyday life,” she says.
One of Hershberger’s proudest career highlights was collaborating with the NIBCO team in 2024 to bring the Rex Martin NIBCO Interactive Museum to life. The project blended storytelling, design and technology to celebrate NIBCO’s legacy while creating an engaging experience for employees, customers and community members.
“It was rewarding to help share the people, innovations and values that have shaped NIBCO’s impact on both our industry and our community,” she says.
Hershberger has learned from leaders both within and outside the industry who have influenced her approach to leadership, branding, communication and professional development.
“Mentors from NIBCO and WIPP have helped me navigate several big transitions in my career, and I’m deeply grateful for the experiences and guidance they have shared with me,” she says.
Hershberger also enjoys sharing her industry knowledge and helping others build confidence through NIBCO mentorship programs, including the NIBCO New Hire Mentorship Program and NIBCO Trainee Program.
“I believe, however, that mentorship does not always have to be formal; often it is simply being available, offering guidance and supporting colleagues when they need it,” she says.
Pairing strong mentorship and development opportunities with stories from people already in the industry is one of the best ways to attract and retain young professionals, Hershberger says.
“Many students and early-career professionals don’t realize the variety of career paths available or the innovation happening in the PHCP industry,” she adds. “Hearing real experiences, career journeys and examples of growth can help them see what’s possible.”
Her advice to those entering the PHCP industry is to stay curious, ask questions and build relationships.
“The industry offers tremendous opportunities for growth, and the more you learn about the people, products and processes, the more successful and rewarding your career will be,” she says.
Continuous learning and creativity are important parts of both Hershberger’s professional and personal life. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring creative pursuits such as painting, illustrating and stained glass making.
“I find inspiration for my work through traveling, new experiences, being outdoors in nature and time spent with family and friends,” she says.
Laura Mustee Hendricks
Major Accounts Manager, E. L. Mustee
“People can be trained to sell different products and perform different tasks. The soft skills of being reliable, consistent and authentic are arguably more important.”
Working for fourth-generation family business E. L. Mustee has given Laura Mustee Hendricks a variety of sales and marketing experience while building customer relationships and reliable partnerships. She is also active in ASA, participating in its Women in Industry and Emerging Leaders programs.
“I could say I was born for this, but it was not my original lifelong dream to sell plumbing products,” Hendricks says. “What I do love in my job, and why I continue to stay is the opportunity to connect with great people and solve problems in sales and marketing for a steady industry.”
When she entered the industry, Hendricks was surprised by how much opportunity she had to use her creativity and problem-solving skills.
“As an extrovert, I enjoy talking to people,” she adds. “I did not know there were so many different roles and divisions across our industry. Almost anyone can find their niche and cater to their unique skills.”
One of Hendricks’ career highlights has been working with people throughout the United States and Canada, giving her the opportunity to experience different markets, major cities, national parks and local communities.
She also credits the many people she has turned to for advice throughout her career.
“There are several people I can call and say, ‘Hey, this is what I’m trying to fix. Has this happened to you before? How did you handle it?’” she says. “I am very thankful for the patient and understanding people who have helped me over the years (as well as listened to me vent).”
The PHCP industry’s wealth of experience has also shaped Hendricks’ perspective on mentorship. With less than 15 years in the industry, she says she has long been accustomed to being “one of the youths.” Now, as younger professionals enter the industry, she hopes to encourage and support others as she works toward becoming a mentor herself.
Hendricks believes recruiting the next generation starts with showing young people what the industry has to offer.
“Working early on with high schools, colleges and trade schools to spread awareness of how diverse and steadfast our industry is will be important for future growth,” she says.
“People can be trained to sell different products and perform different tasks,” Hendricks adds. “The soft skills of being reliable, consistent and authentic are arguably more important.”
And her advice to those entering the industry? Ask questions and listen.
“Don’t be apprehensive to try a new task or learn a new skill,” she says. “Say yes to opportunities.”
For Hendricks, one of her favorite things about the industry is the “incredible” friendships she has gained over the years. She credits her family for supporting her in everything she does and is grateful for them, even when they “occasionally annoy or irritate one another.”
Jose Lizarraga
Apprentice, Coast Plumbing Solutions
“As I was praying for guidance as to how I could better provide for my family and help my neighbors, the answer hit me like a runaway Mack truck: plumbing!”
Jose Lizarraga’s responsibilities at Coast Plumbing Solutions include drain clearing, fixture repairs and replacements, and diagnostics, repairs and replacements for water heaters and softeners. He also assists with staying on top of overall shop maintenance and inventory.
Lizarraga was working as a senior banker when he began to feel he was on the “slow train to nowhere.” He started asking his now-employer and others how they got their start. Over a period of six months, he continued probing and searching for a change.
“As I was praying for guidance as to how I could better provide for my family and help my neighbors, the answer hit me like a runaway Mack truck: plumbing!” he says.
Within the span of 15 months — with the “Lord’s blessing” and help of his team and on-the-job-training — Lizarraga has gone from a white-collar office job to getting his start with a “great company” in a “fantastic trade.” He has successfully diagnosed, sold and executed dozens of minor fixture repairs and drain stoppages. Lizarraga credits Nick Ward and Don Miller of Total Tech in Tennessee as mentors along the way.
“Nick’s passion for plumbing and teaching, combined with his knowledge, are force multipliers for our industry,” he says. “Coupled with the institution Don founded, these two and the rest of the staff at places like Total Tech are doing a huge service for our industry.”
Lizarraga doesn’t consider himself a mentor yet, but his perspective on fatherhood has taught him that being a role model isn’t about feeling ready — it’s about recognizing the needs of those around you.
“Furthermore, there is always someone watching — looking up to you — even when you don’t think they are,” he says. “With that being said, I do believe we are responsible for teaching the next generation and protecting the nation’s health.”
When it comes to recruiting the next generation, Lizarraga believes the industry needs to start early with inclusion programs at the high school level. His advice to those entering the industry is straightforward: “Hang tough and be comfortable being uncomfortable.”
Lizarraga says he feels blessed to have the opportunity to learn a trade with a great company and genuinely enjoy his profession. Outside of work, Lizarraga describes himself as a “Follower of Christ, a father and a veteran.” He also enjoys long-distance running and spending time with his family. At the age of 32, he is “crazy enough” to believe he can learn a new musical instrument.
Zach Londo, PE
Senior Design Engineer, GF Building Flow Solutions
“HVAC and plumbing infrastructure is so ubiquitous that it often feels mundane next to tech fields, but the key to inspiring young talent is highlighting our real-world challenges.”
At GF Building Flow Solutions (GF), Zach Londo specializes in hydronic radiant heating and cooling systems and hydronic distribution for commercial and residential projects. He is responsible for modeling thermal and fluid performance, optimizing piping layouts, and selecting key components to maximize system efficiency. Londo collaborates with owners, engineers, architects and contractors to help create high-performing, sustainable buildings. He is also a member of ASHRAE and typically engages with the various hydronic technical committees including TC 6.5 (Radiant Heating and Cooling), where he is the current program’s subcommittee chair.
Londo describes his path into the PHCP industry as “a bit of a fluke.” He graduated with an aerospace degree hoping to build airplanes but ended up working for a water distribution original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
“I’ve always had a passion for heat transfer and thermodynamics, so applying those skills to designing comfortable buildings was a natural pivot,” Londo says. “While we only spend a handful of hours in airplanes, we spend our entire lives indoors, so it feels much more impactful.”
Since joining the industry, a major career highlight for Londo has been building out key design tools at GF.
“I enjoy bridging published academic research into practical industry applications,” he says. “This elevates our team’s technical capacity and drives efficiency across the board, improving both our project turnaround times and the real-world performance of our end systems.”
Londo feels he has been fortunate to learn from nearly everyone he has met in the industry, but he names Robert Bean as a “major guiding hand for industry engagement and professional growth.” Additionally, Londo says his colleagues Him Ly and Jean-Claude Remy were instrumental in helping him “find his footing” and “adapt quickly” when he first joined the field and remain his “go-to resources.”
While it is a bit early in his career to consider himself a mentor, Londo still enjoys guiding and supporting industry newcomers. He believes showing young professionals that our industry directly tackles pressing issues gives them a compelling purpose to join and stay.
“HVAC and plumbing infrastructure is so ubiquitous that it often feels mundane next to tech fields, but the key to inspiring young talent is highlighting our real-world challenges,” he says. “Buildings drive nearly 40% of U.S. energy consumption, and indoor environmental quality (air, water, comfort, etc.) directly impacts human health.”
Londo encourages those entering the PHCP industry to ask questions, noting that it is open, collaborative, and full of experienced professionals eager to share their knowledge and help others succeed.
“Get involved in industry groups like ASHRAE, stay curious about the ‘why’ behind design standards, and focus on mastering the fundamentals of energy efficiency and IEQ-forward building design,” he says.
Megan Powers, MBA
Manager of Internal Audit, Hajoca Corp.
“When people say it’s a relationship industry, it’s really true. It sounds cliché at first, but I’ve come to really appreciate that.”
Along with her team at Hajoca Corp., Megan Powers identifies and evaluates potential business risks with the goal of protecting the shareholder’s assets and mitigating future losses or safety concerns. She is also on the board of the company’s women’s group, Power of Her, and the chair of its policy committee. Additionally, Powers is on the education committee with ASA Women in Industry.
Originally hired as a member of Hajoca’s management development program, Powers switched to an auditor role after attending an audit as part of her training.
“I loved the idea of being developed within a stable industry, and I especially loved the idea of working at Hajoca,” she says. “Everyone I met throughout the interview process was smart, kind and had long tenure, so I felt confident it was the right place for me.”
One aspect of the PHCP industry that surprised Powers was just how much relationships matter.
“When people say it’s a relationship industry, it’s really true. It sounds cliché at first, but I’ve come to really appreciate that,” she says.
Some of Powers’ career highlights have been travelling the country and meeting people from a wide range of locations. As an auditor, she has gained cross-functional experience that has allowed her to learn about the business “from all angles.”
Powers is particularly proud of her work with governance and policies, including writing a parental leave policy that has since become a standard among some of the company’s industry partners. More recently, she also created a business operations development program designed to help develop new talent. Powers believes highlighting the opportunities for growth, longevity and stability in this industry is crucial to recruiting and retaining young professionals.
“Ultimately, this industry has all the hallmarks of what someone needs to have a successful long-term career,” she says.
Powers encourages those entering the PHCP industry to be vocal about their own goals and development needs.
“There are so many career opportunities in this space that may not be immediately obvious; every company has finance, governance and other administrative roles, too, so there is something for everyone — even if a career in sales isn’t your main goal,” she says.
Rafael Sanchez
Saniflo Technician / Sanimarin Product Specialist, SFA Saniflo USA
“I have stayed in the field because it continues to challenge me, expand my knowledge and provide meaningful opportunities to help others.”
In his role at SFA Saniflo USA, Rafael Sanchez supports customers and industry professionals who use the company’s macerating toilet and gray-water pump systems. His responsibilities include troubleshooting technical issues, recommending appropriate products and solutions, answering installation and warranty questions, and coordinating replacement parts when needed.
“Through this work, I regularly connect and collaborate with plumbing professionals, contractors, distributors, manufacturers’ representatives and other members of the PHCP community,” he says. “These relationships allow me to exchange technical knowledge, stay informed about industry needs, and contribute to solutions that support both professionals and customers.”
Sanchez entered the PHCP industry because he was drawn to hands-on problem-solving and the opportunity to work with products that improve people’s everyday lives. He says he was surprised by how much innovation and technology are involved in the industry but quickly realized that it constantly evolves to provide safer, more efficient and more sustainable solutions. As he learned more, he became interested in the technical side of plumbing systems and the relationships built through customer support.
“I have stayed in the field because it continues to challenge me, expand my knowledge and provide meaningful opportunities to help others,” he says.
One of Sanchez’s most meaningful career highlights was helping add modern restroom facilities to the historic P-520, a WWII- and Korean War-era crash boat.
“We supported the installation of two Sanimarin 4 macerating toilets, making the vessel more reliable, comfortable and accessible,” he says. “Knowing the boat is being transformed into a floating museum and therapeutic retreat for disabled veterans made the project especially rewarding and showed me the real-world impact of our work.”
Throughout his career, Sanchez has learned from many experienced colleagues and industry professionals.
“Their technical knowledge, guidance, and willingness to share their experiences have helped me grow professionally and approach challenges with greater confidence,” he says.
Sanchez also considers himself a mentor and enjoys sharing his insights and experiences with colleagues and customers, helping them troubleshoot problems and better understand products.
“Supporting others as they build their skills is one of the most rewarding parts of my role,” he says.
When asked how the industry can better recruit and retain young professionals, Sanchez feels increasing awareness of the diverse career opportunities available and providing clear paths for advancement is key.
“Offering hands-on training, mentorship, competitive compensation and exposure to new technologies can help attract younger workers,” he says. “Creating a workplace culture where employees feel supported, valued and encouraged to grow will help keep them engaged long-term.”
Sanchez encourages those entering the PHCP industry to be willing to learn, ask questions and listen to experienced professionals. He also stresses the importance of staying current as the industry evolves.
“Most importantly, develop strong relationships and take pride in helping customers find reliable solutions,” he says.
Laura Shelton
Senior Marketing Communications Manager, Caleffi
“While I didn’t have a background in plumbing and heating, I firmly believe that great marketing isn’t just about the product itself — it’s about how effectively you tell its story.”
At Caleffi North America, Laura Shelton has overseen writing, branding and storytelling across the region for the past two years in her role as senior marketing communications manager. Her core responsibility is bringing Caleffi’s values and story to life; by driving brand awareness and consistent messaging, she helps ensure the company’s high-quality hydronic and plumbing solutions resonate with contractors, engineers and distributors across North America. Shelton is also an active member of Women in HVACR, a supportive and empowering network of professionals across the industry.
Though she came from a manufacturing background, Shelton describes entering the PHCP industry as an “exciting pivot” that allowed her to seek new professional growth.
“While I didn’t have a background in plumbing and heating, I firmly believe that great marketing isn’t just about the product itself — it’s about how effectively you tell its story,” she says. “The industry’s vital role in everyday life inspired me to step out of my comfort zone, apply my skills and build a meaningful career in this essential field.”
What surprised Shelton most about working in the PHCP industry was learning the hidden intricacies of water delivery.
“Before entering PHCP, I rarely thought about how hot water reaches a hotel room or what ensures safe drinking water,” she says. “Seeing the engineering and dedication required behind the scenes completely shifted my perspective on how crucial this industry is to daily life.”
A major career highlight for Shelton has been rapidly mastering a complex industry while advocating for water safety and efficiency. She also spearheaded marketing initiatives for Caleffi that grew brand awareness and social media engagement by 20% in the last year.
“Setting ambitious goals, elevating our presence alongside an incredible team and seeing tangible results in a field as dynamic as HVACR has been extremely rewarding,” she says.
Shelton feels she is fortunate to have exceptional mentors, including Max Rohr, whose technical knowledge and passion for hydronics have helped her understand complex concepts, and Caleffi President and CEO Tina Miller, who serves as a “daily source of inspiration.”
“Seeing strong, compassionate female leadership at the top reinforces what is possible in this industry and pushes me to continually grow as a professional and a leader,” Shelton says.
Women in HVACR has also been “invaluable” to Shelton’s growth.
“This community continues to motivate me as we champion diversity, foster connection and pave the way for future generations in PHCP,” she says.
Striving to be a dependable and approachable resource for colleagues and industry peers, Shelton considers herself a mentor as well. She believes leading by example through authenticity, a strong work ethic and unwavering passion is what mentorship is all about.
To recruit and retain young talent, Shelton feels the industry needs to focus on community-building, engagement and visible career pathways.
“Additionally, highlighting modern technology, sustainability and creative roles — like marketing and communications — shows the rising generation that the PHCP industry offers dynamic, impactful and long-term career opportunities for diverse skillsets,” she says.
Shelton encourages those entering the PHCP industry not to be intimidated by the technical learning curve.
“My biggest advice is to find a mentor or colleague who speaks your ‘language’ and can break down complex systems into concepts you easily understand,” she says. “Ask questions, stay curious and embrace the process. Remember that fresh perspectives are vital to this industry. You don’t need to know everything on day one to make a meaningful, lasting impact.”
Dan Shirey
Regional Sales Manager, Oatey Co.
“The relationships I have built and the people I have learned from throughout my career have been some of my most meaningful experiences.”
Dan Shirey is responsible for driving revenue growth across Oatey Co.’s Northeast territory by developing sales strategies, managing key customer relationships, leading and coaching sales representatives, and identifying new business opportunities. His role focuses on achieving sales targets through effective territory management, performance analysis, cross-functional collaboration, and execution of company initiatives, while delivering exceptional customer service and maximizing market share. Shirey is also involved with ASA’s Emerging Leaders Division and participates in its EMERGE conference, which brings together emerging leaders from across the PHCP-PVF industry for leadership development, education and networking.
Before joining Oatey in November 2025, Shirey got his start in the PHCP world through Milwaukee Tool. Since entering the industry, he has enjoyed working in a field built on strong relationships, technical expertise and opportunities for continued growth.
Year after year, Shirey continues to be struck by the PHCP industry’s unique ability to be both expansive and close-knit.
“Despite its size, the industry is built on strong relationships and a genuine sense of community,” he says.
Echoing that sentiment, rather than one specific highlight, Shirey says the most rewarding part of his career has been the opportunity to work for two great organizations alongside talented people every day.
“The relationships I have built and the people I have learned from throughout my career have been some of my most meaningful experiences,” he says.
Shirey considers several people mentors, both within and outside the PHCP industry.
“Each has played an important role in my professional development, helping me learn, grow and become the leader I am today,” he says.
Mentoring others is important to Shirey has well; he considers himself a strong leader and enjoys sharing his experiences, answering questions, and helping younger professionals navigate their careers. To better recruit and retain the next generation, Shirey says the industry needs to introduce people to the trades early and show the wide range of career opportunities available.
“Organizations can help by hosting job-shadowing opportunities, participating in career days, and attending trade shows to give students firsthand exposure to the industry,” he says. “Creating these connections early can help demonstrate the important role the trades play and encourage the next generation to pursue careers in the PHCP industry.”
Shirey advises industry newcomers to have fun, be themselves, stay curious and become a “sponge.”
“Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask questions,” he says. “There is always something new to learn, and the people around you can be some of your greatest resources.”
Outside of work, Shirey says his wife and family are the most important part of his life. He is a proud father to a 3-year-old son and a 5-month-old daughter. Shirey also has a strong passion for athletics and was part of a national championship football team at Villanova University. More recently, he completed his first Ironman, which challenged him both physically and mentally and “reinforced the importance of discipline, perseverance and commitment.”
Korey Silverman
Director of Operations, General Pipe Cleaners
“Our average tenure is over 20 years, so there’s a ton to learn and absorb. Many of our employees were doing this long before I was born, so I’m playing catch-up.”
As director of operations for General Pipe Cleaners, Korey Silverman’s role is to get the highest quality product out the door as quickly as possible, “so a plumber has the right tool when they need it.” He often moves between departments and projects, which is his favorite part of the job.
“The work is maintaining what’s great, fostering ‘the good’ into ‘great’ and improving what’s weak,” he says.
Family played a major role in Silverman’s decision to enter the PHCP industry. His great-grandfather, Abe, started General Wire Spring Co. in 1930, and Silverman grew up visiting the plant with his dad from the time he was a baby. As he got older, he worked in the factory during summers home from school. After studying business at Indiana University and working in commercial real estate, Silverman returned to General Pipe Cleaners in 2022 to work alongside his dad — an “easy decision” and one of the “most meaningful” he has made.
Among his biggest career highlights is leading General Pipe Cleaners’ enterprise resource planning (ERP) rollout. The company spent years preparing for the transition, followed by 14 months of dedicated work before going live. After nine successful months on the new system at the time of writing, Silverman says the company is in a more stable position that will allow it to grow in ways it couldn’t before.
Silverman’s mentors include “plenty” of people, including his grandfather, uncles and father, Mike, who taught him, “If you’re going to do something, be good at it.” He also looks to the employees on the factory floor for mentorship.
“Our average tenure is over 20 years, so there’s a ton to learn and absorb,” he says. “Many of our employees were doing this long before I was born, so I’m playing catch-up.”
Silverman also considers himself a mentor in two ways: During his personal time he volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, and at work he teaches others.
“I’m early in my career, so I lean on energy and tenacity to learn fast, then hand it to somebody so they can do their job in a way they couldn’t before,” he says. “That’s servant leadership to me — giving it away rather than owning the keys. It’s also how a good mentee turns into a good mentor.”
To better recruit and retain the next generation, Silverman believes the industry needs to stop presenting the trades as a fallback plan and start showing young people what the work actually offers. That means highlighting the opportunity to create something real, solve problems, make an honest living and know that your work made someone’s day easier.
Silverman advises those entering the PHCP industry to immerse themselves in the work and learn the “what” and the “why” before trying to change anything.
“Follow the work from the furthest point upstream to the furthest point downstream, because every step is connected to the one before it,” he says. “Once you understand who a change actually touches, you make better ones.”
Silverman is grateful to receive the Generation PHCP honor but sees it as recognition of General Pipe Cleaners as a whole.
“Over 100 people work here, and I’m just one of them,” he says. “When you’re surrounded by people who work as hard as ours do, they make you look good.”
Outside of work, Silverman is a “very proud Yinzer and a very proud Hoosier.” He enjoys sports, music, travel, exercise, animals, friends and family during his free time.
Brad Williams
Business Development Manager, Franklin Electric
“Even if you think you know the answer, you can always benefit from an additional perspective.”
Brad Williams works with Franklin Electric’s national accounts to help find the best solutions for their needs. This includes not only specifying projects but also identifying needs within each specific territory.
Williams originally joined Franklin Electric in hopes of figuring out what he wanted to do for a living.
“The more time I spent working with customers and problem solving, the more I came to enjoy it and want to take it on as a real career,” he says.
Some of Williams’ biggest career highlights have been helping customers out of tricky situations or hearing back from them about how well jobs have gone.
“Solving problems for my teams is always a huge win,” he says.
Williams has been “very fortunate” to have fantastic mentors across his entire sales team.
“They are always happy to take time to go over projects or help when I come across a situation that I’m not sure how to handle,” he says.
Additionally, Williams does his best to share his knowledge and experience with people who have joined the industry after him.
“Especially if I can help them learn from mistakes I made in the past, so they don’t repeat them themselves!” he says.
Williams believes the industry can better recruit and retain young professionals by showcasing career paths and opportunities for growth.
“Showing that you can go beyond a current role into something even greater is key,” he says.
One of the things Williams enjoys most about the PHCP industry is meeting new, upbeat people who are willing to share their knowledge. For newcomers, his advice is simple: Listen and learn.
“Even if you think you know the answer, you can always benefit from an additional perspective,” he says.
Justin Winkler
District Sales Manager, Viega
“I feel like I have found a hidden gem of an industry and market that I am lucky to be a part of.”
Justin Winkler provides local representation for Viega in the Northeast Ohio market. He works with contractors to ensure they understand the company’s product offerings, can complete their systems to the highest industry standards and are trained on proper installation steps. Winkler also confirms inventory with local wholesalers and distributors, ensuring their teams are educated and equipped to service Viega customers.
After Winkler spent 13 years working for a medical gas fittings manufacturer, a friend in the industry reached out about an opportunity at Viega. Winkler was excited to take on a new venture with a “growing company who is the industry standard.” The timing was also appealing for Winkler, as Viega was building a 244,000-square-foot manufacturing and training facility in Mantua, Ohio, within the Northeast Ohio district.
“I feel like I have found a hidden gem of an industry and market that I am lucky to be a part of,” he says. “I am excited to continue my growth and journey moving forward.”
As an “outsider” when he joined the PHCP industry in May 2024, Winkler says he was not exactly sure what to expect, but he found others’ willingness to engage very welcoming. He has since grown existing relationships and made new connections throughout the market, which he views as a career highlight. The new Viega facility has also given Winkler the opportunity to host hundreds of customers and industry groups for training, tours and events.
“It has been a great experience to see the quality that Viega prides itself in and help train and educate our customers,” he says.
Winkler has had many mentors throughout the industry, including colleagues in Viega’s Great Lakes Region and across the country, as well as co-vendors, contractors and wholesalers. In just over two years at Viega, Winkler feels he has also been fortunate to mentor his colleague Brandon Peacock, who was promoted from inside sales to a field sales representative role supporting Winkler.
“I am honored that he nominated me for this recognition and has been vocal in my support to him since becoming colleagues and teammates,” Winkler says.
Excited to see more young people interested in the trades, Winkler enjoys being part of outreach efforts, especially because countless people have helped him throughout his career.
“At Viega, we are engaging and helping to improve the safety, efficiency and effectiveness in the field,” he says.
Winkler advises those entering the PHCP industry to not hesitate to ask questions.
“In my experience, most everyone I have worked with is more than willing to help,” he says. “There is so much opportunity to grow in so many different ways.”
One week after joining Viega, Winkler proposed to his now-wife, and they were married last fall. The couple is expecting their first child next year, and Winkler says he has received nothing but sincere congratulations, well wishes and advice from customers, colleagues and industry friends since sharing the news.
