The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC) recently welcomed professionals across the country to Milwaukee for PHCC CONNECT 2026, Oct. 19–22. Drawing the highest attendance in many years, CONNECT delivered business solutions, innovative technologies and new connections to help contractors strengthen their businesses and advance the industry.

This year’s event – themed “Building Community. Advancing the Industry.” – featured more than 20 educational sessions, interactive discussions and opportunities for contractors to network with peers and industry experts. Attendees explored topics ranging from business growth and workforce development to emerging technologies and strategies for strengthening their companies.

The expanded two-day Product & Technology Showcase gave attendees more opportunities to meet with manufacturers, explore new products and technologies and discover solutions designed to support their businesses and jobsites. CONNECT 2026 also featured new opportunities for connection and education, including Link Up: Shaping the Future of Women in the Industry Networking Event, which brought women from across the trades together to network and share experiences. Showcase attendees also explored Milwaukee Central, highlighting manufacturers with ties to the region, and new industry training vehicles that brought hands-on education directly to the show floor.

The prestigious 2026 Colonel George D. Scott Award was presented to PHCC Past National President Eddie Hollub (2002-2003), president of Modern Plumbing and Air Conditioning in Pasadena, Texas, recognizing his years of service and devotion to the association and the industry. This award honors those whose efforts have significantly benefited other plumbing, heating and cooling contractors.

CONNECT 2026 also marked an important leadership transition for PHCC as CEO Cindy Sheridan was recognized for her upcoming retirement following 26 years of service to the association. PHCC National COO Dan Quinonez will succeed Sheridan as PHCC’s new CEO, continuing the association’s commitment to serving its members and advancing the plumbing and HVACR industry.

“CONNECT is about bringing our industry together to share ideas, learn from one another and build relationships that move our industry forward,” said Jason Pritchard, president of the PHCC-National Association. “The conversations and connections made at CONNECT help strengthen our businesses, our workforce and the future of the trades.”

PHCC thanks the attendees, exhibitors, speakers and sponsors who helped make CONNECT 2026 a success and contributed to another strong gathering of the plumbing and HVACR community.

Next year’s conference will be held October 25-28 in Fort Worth, Texas. Contractors are encouraged to mark their calendars now for this opportunity to continue building connections and enhancing their businesses.

For more information about PHCC and future CONNECT events, visit phccweb.org/events.