• Home >
  • Back Issues >
  • Contractor >
  • April 2025

    • April 2025

    2025 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show Draws 43,000; Hydronic Transformation at Historic Strater Hotel; Water Sector Seeks Funding Amid Federal Budget Cuts; Indy Welcomes Work Truck Week; National Craft Championship Winners Announced; Private Equity and the MEP Trades; and much more.
    ABC/National Craft Championships
    A competitor in the Pipe Joining competition at the 2025 National Craft Championships.
    April 4, 2025
    Pride, value and possibility—that’s the package I think we need to be selling to young people.
    MCAA
    During his first remarks as MCAA President, Brian Hughes shared one philosophy he lives by, which comes from his father: “Everyone either has more time or more money—whichever you have, that’s what you give.” I try to give my time to the people and causes that matter, including this association.
    March 27, 2025
    Coming off the momentum of a very successful annual convention in Austin, Texas, the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is gearing up for great things in 2025...
    ID 74477078 © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime.com
    Rue Burbon, New Orleans, LA.
    March 27, 2025
    Quality Service Contractors annual conference came to the Big Easy March 24-26.
    ID 134788697 © Pavel Petrov | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_134788697
    March 26, 2025
    While PE investment can accelerate growth and offer financial freedom, it may also bring cultural shifts and operational changes to family-run businesses.
    iapmo_white_space
    March 25, 2025
    Members are being sought in the following categories: manufacturer, user, installer/maintainer, labor, research/standards/testing laboratory, enforcing authority, consumer, and...

    More content from April 2025

    Uponor
    GF Employees at Apple Valley, Reinhart Baumann and Gael Pelaez Garcia.
    March 25, 2025
    Since 1934, the annual awards program has honored Minnesota employers with exceptional safety performance.
    MCAA
    The MCAA/CNA Safety Excellence Awards.
    March 25, 2025
    The awards focus on evaluating safety programs, health initiatives, and the impact of safety innovations within the industry.
    wattslogo
    March 25, 2025
    This quarter’s sweepstakes features an array of prizes designed for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
    intellihot_logo
    March 25, 2025
    Shamus M. Hurley has been named the new Chief Executive Officer of the company.
    ID 123495913 © W.scott Mcgill | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_123495913
    March 24, 2025
    At this moment, there are no absolutes. These times are too exceptional, and changes are occurring faster than one would have thought possible.
    Pat Linhardt
    twopumps_rev
    March 24, 2025
    A text exchange between the author and a curious newcomer becomes a seminar in basic pumping principles.
    ID 116061667 © Tetiana Shumbasova | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_116061667
    March 24, 2025
    Cloud-based phone systems use the internet instead of traditional phone lines, offering advanced features, seamless mobility, and cost savings.
    ID 95839218 | Celebrate © Alexey Novikov | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_95839218
    March 21, 2025
    The adoption was initiated and endorsed by the state’s Plumbing Commission and has the robust support of South Dakota’s plumbing industry.
    Delta Faucet
    ctr2504_deltafaucet
    March 21, 2025
    This week's gallery features kitchen under-sink water filtration systems, a one-handle pull-down kitchen faucet, an ergonomic ladder rack, tool drawers for work trucks, an electronic...
    Oatey
    An offset toilet flange.
    March 21, 2025
    Addressing toilet flange issues promptly can save homeowners from costly repairs down the line.
    ID 356039098 © Anastasiia Torianyk | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_356039098
    March 21, 2025
    Not every customer—and not even every lead—has the same value.
    perc_logo
    March 20, 2025
    In his new role, Stutheit will be responsible for growing propane autogas market share for on-highway light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles.
    Pro-Tec Plumbing & Air
    The Pro-Tec Plumbing & Air team.
    March 20, 2025
    This move allows Pro-Tec to provide top-tier plumbing and HVAC services to even more homeowners and businesses in the region.
    Bradley
    Attendees at the 2nd Annual Galentine’s Women in S.T.E.M. event.
    March 20, 2025
    The commercial washroom manufacturer has been a long-time supporter of S.T.E.M. education in Wisconsin.
    bbtt_promo
    March 20, 2025
    Clark is the founder of Spark Building Group, a Women Business Enterprise (WBE) in construction focused on welding, metal fabrication, and workforce development.
    Nationwide Boiler
    Trailer-Mounted Rental Boilers Installed with CataStak SCR Systems for Single Digit NOx Emissions Compliance at a Refinery in California.
    March 19, 2025
    Selective catalytic reduction systems are proven to achieve ultra-low, single-digit NOx performance.
    aos_logo_cmyk
    March 19, 2025
    Interactive, virtual classes designed to accommodate busy schedules.
    ID 127493063 © Andreysha | Dreamstime.com
    Municipal pipe replacement project. Massive progress has been made by drinking water utilities to replace tens of thousands of miles of pipes across the country.
    March 19, 2025
    A raft of executive actions by the Trump Administration have created uncertainty for projects reliant on federal support.
    pmilogo
    March 18, 2025
    In this newly created role, Windrum will work to share and advance the policy interests of PMI and its members.
    AWS
    a3
    March 18, 2025
    AWS A3.0M/A3.0:2025 introduces new terms for additive manufacturing and nondestructive examination.
    Leap Partners
    (Left to right) CEO of Leap Partners, John Cerasuolo; former owner, Lee Amos, and his wife, Bethany Amos; Leap Partners VP of HR, Safety and Risk, Kristi Toth; and Leap Partners VP of Regional Operations, Ben Scott.
    March 18, 2025
    Leap Partners acquires Master Plumbers Heating and Cooling in Greensboro, further strengthening its presence in the state.
    Carhartt
    The Steel Apple Award.
    March 18, 2025
    Workwear brand commits $150,000 to support skilled trades education across America through grant and educator awards.
    Watts
    april_ceu_campaign_pr_image
    March 18, 2025
    Participants can choose from 25 courses accredited through the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
    ID 344935438 | Machine © Wrightstudio | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_344935438
    March 17, 2025
    Those who master the balance between tradition and technology will set the standard for the future of skilled trades.
    iapmo_white_space
    March 17, 2025
    The proposed changes for the 2027 NSPC will be available to the public for downloading and viewing after June 15.
    SharkBite
    Using plumbing software in the field.
    March 17, 2025
    An overview of the codes and standards landscape, with inside perspective from a plumbing manufacturer.
    NTEA
    An aerial shot of the exhibit floor at Work Truck Week 2025.
    March 17, 2025
    Industry professionals from 31 countries and all 50 US states met March 4–7 at the Indiana Convention Center.
    scb_logo
    March 14, 2025
    More than 50,000 organizations worldwide are certified to ISO 27001.
    zoomdrainlogocolorsplitblock
    March 14, 2025
    Foley will focus on growing and strengthening Zoom Drain’s robust franchise network throughout the US.
    ID 357465582 © Aoo3771 | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_357465582
    March 14, 2025
    Deciding what’s best for your organization depends on what you want out of your financial team and what kind of future you envision for your home service company.
    ID 141822218 © Pornchai Soda | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_141822218
    March 14, 2025
    There are many avenues to mediate the water scarcity issue—and commercial building managers can play an important role.
    Adrian Steel
    ctr2504_adriansteel
    March 13, 2025
    This week's gallery highlights next-gen storage and shelving for commercial vans and pickups, a circular bathroom sink faucet, end suction pumps with permanent magnet motors, ...
    ID 109392374 © Welcomia | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_109392374
    March 13, 2025
    Rather than consider your job complete once the plumbing work is done, you can partner with reliable service providers to help finish the job.
    ID 20619626 © Liujunrong | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_20619626
    March 13, 2025
    Overall construction input prices are 0.3% higher than one year ago, while nonresidential construction input prices are 0.1% lower.
    ID 143911825 © Zerbor | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_143911825
    March 12, 2025
    Here are five popular tax planning strategies that we have found particularly beneficial to contractors.
    IAPMO
    waterdemandstudy
    March 12, 2025
    Based on data from more than 1,000 households, the study provides an evidence-based approach to right-sizing plumbing systems.
    NIBCO
    The historic Strater Hotel, built in 1887.
    March 12, 2025
    Altitude Backflow, LLC, leverages NIBCO’s PressACR system to upgrade a 19th century landmark.
    Call Rail
    The Call Log screen in Call Rail.
    March 12, 2025
    Reviews of the Call Rail lead intelligence platform, RazorSync service software, the Deltek ComputerEase solution and more.
    EGIA
    Motivational speaker Nick Vujicic engages and informs at EPIC2025 in Orlando.
    March 11, 2025
    1,000 attendees experienced elite business training, world-class speakers, and entertainment at Disney’s Yacht Club.
    2025wmeclogo_navyblack
    March 11, 2025
    Company recognized for its commitment to robust ethics, compliance and governance programs.
    asse_logo
    March 11, 2025
    Professional Qualifications Standard for Medical Gas Systems Personnel is now available for purchase.
    ID 359939265 © Andrew Angelov | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_359939265
    March 11, 2025
    Industry job openings increased by 31,000 last month but are down by 171,000 from the same time last year.
    Exposed to Light Photography
    Uponor manufacturing facility in Apple Valley, MN.
    March 11, 2025
    Two award-winning Minnesota brands collaborate to advance innovative environmental stewardship solutions.
    hcp_logo
    March 11, 2025
    Scholarship recipients span the country and represent the future of the plumbing, electrical and HVAC professions.
    ID 184535114 © Photovs | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_184535114
    March 11, 2025
    ABC’s Construction Confidence Index reading for staffing improved, while the reading for profit margins declined.
    ID 145870286 © Timur Konev | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_145870286
    March 11, 2025
    There is nothing so sad to see as sloppy, substandard workmanship, disregard for details and a general lack of pride in the work being done.
    ID 38186500 © Editor77 | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_38186500
    March 10, 2025
    When you need calls, here are nine things to try. Some work together.
    Bring Back the Trades
    The new Bring Back the Trades website.
    March 10, 2025
    The website relaunch was made possible in part through the generous support of Milwaukee Tool.
    ID 129887872 | Building © Techa Tungateja | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_129887872
    March 10, 2025
    Modular plumbing systems are increasingly designed with modular homes or business buildouts in mind to maintain the tempo of delivery.
    ID 59869110 © Igor Zakharevich | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_59869110
    March 10, 2025
    Contractors and installers that can add a smart home feature to a hydronic installation could see a longer-term value.
    ID 346053030 | 3d Building © Dzmitry Auramchik | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_346053030
    March 7, 2025
    Digital twins will soon become an essential component of every preconstruction toolkit.
    InSinkErator
    ctr2405_insinkerator
    March 7, 2025
    This week's gallery features a garbage disposal injection system for septic tanks, an air-to-water electric heat pump, a hand-held sink drain cleaner, a pickup truck bed rack ...
    ID 97572984 © Jiawangkun | Dreamstime.com
    New Jersey state flag flies over the state capitol in Trenton.
    March 7, 2025
    California introduces legislation to follow suit.
    ID 363307210 © Frank Armstrong | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_363307210
    March 7, 2025
    Today, commercial trades are under increasing pressure to deliver the kind of transparency and responsiveness that customers have come to expect from residential contractors. ...
    ID 161866211 © motortion | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_161866211
    March 7, 2025
    Repeat customers are the bedrock of a stable, growing service business.
    ID 26237549 © Jaroslaw Grudzinski | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_26237549
    March 7, 2025
    The construction unemployment rate rose to 7.2% in February. Unemployment across all industries increased from 4.0% in January to 4.1% last month.
    ID 51576951 © Yakub88 | Dreamstime.com
    A modern boiler room.
    March 6, 2025
    Proactive maintenance and effective daily management can ensure the system delivers heat where and when required.
    ariston_logo_10
    March 6, 2025
    The Newcomer Connections program works with highly skilled professionals on their journey to becoming Canadian citizens.
    ntea_logo
    March 6, 2025
    Since 1993, Winter has been driving success at Transfer Flow, a pioneering automotive manufacturing company.
    Sloan
    A Sloan urinal using reclaimed water.
    March 6, 2025
    Sloan maintains two-year verification; identifies additional water-related improvements.
    festoollogopromo
    March 6, 2025
    Festool will showcase a variety of brand-new and existing power tool solutions across U.S. cities throughout the year.
    ID 90980902 © Agnormark | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_90980902
    March 5, 2025
    The survey revealed that the greater pay scale and advancement opportunities were the primary reasons for seeking a job in construction.
    perc_logo
    March 5, 2025
    This national research program collects data from participating builders to better understand how propane is used in residential construction.
    Bradley
    Skyline partitions from Bradely, shown in Alabaster.
    March 5, 2025
    Bradley Company releases findings from its annual Healthy Handwashing Survey.
    jobber
    March 5, 2025
    To date, Jobber Grants has provided $625,000 to 100 home service entrepreneurs, enabling them to expand and grow their businesses.
    Emerald / KBIS
    0118_photo_courtesy_of_emerald_kbis
    March 5, 2025
    KBIS 2025 in Las Vegas did not disappoint! Here is a gallery of highlights.
    Emerald / KBIS
    Crowds for the opening day at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. More than 43,000 registered visitors attended.
    March 5, 2025
    The largest kitchen and bath trade show in North America drew an engaged audience looking for the latest products and trends in the industry.
    ID 93319469 © Sasinparaksa | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_93319469
    March 5, 2025
    BuiltWorlds 2024 Venture & Investments Report revealed an increase in VC deals driven by strong activity in Central Europe as well as continued interest in infrastructure and ...
    Associated Builders and Contractors
    The Clemson University team—affiliated with the ABC Carolinas chapter—was named the overall winner of the 2025 competition.
    March 4, 2025
    A total of 34 teams of undergraduate students from colleges and universities nationwide competed this year.
    Watts
    Grand prize winner Dave Plasschaer (center).
    March 4, 2025
    Dave Plasschaert, an engineer from the Chicago area, has won an all-expenses-paid trip for two to Boston, MA.
    ID 36239441 © Grigor Atanasov | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_36239441
    March 4, 2025
    Spending was up on a monthly basis in 12 of the 16 nonresidential subcategories.
    ABC
    Competitors in the plumbing competition fit sections of PVC pipe during the 36th National Craft Competition.
    March 4, 2025
    The 36th annual competition featured nearly 200 of the nation’s best craft professionals vying for top honors in 15 competitions with skills on display in 11 crafts.
    ID 144019456 © Sylvain Robin | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_144019456
    March 3, 2025
    The cost of housing, food, energy, and commercial work vehicles will likely increase.
    Housecall Pro
    Housecall Pro for Education has already been rolled out at trade schools across the country, with more than 100 students completing their certification.
    March 3, 2025
    New program includes partnerships with trade schools across the country, equipping students with tools and resources to jumpstart their careers.
    Werner Co.
    jason_training
    March 3, 2025
    Annual campaign raises national awareness to the importance of ladder safety on the worksite.
    msupply_logo
    March 3, 2025
    The new name was chosen to reflect the company’s evolution and values.
    Carrier
    The new air-to-water heat pump at the Carrier booth at the International Builders Show in Las Vegas.
    March 3, 2025
    Debuting at IBS, this marks the company’s first domestic hot water solution integrated into an air-to-water heat pump product for North America.
    EcoWater Systems
    Bill L., a retired electrician and cancer survivor, was nominated by his partner due to concerns about local water quality.
    March 3, 2025
    Water solutions company marks a century of service with nationwide initiative to donate 100 water systems to deserving individuals and organizations.
    Saniflo
    Mignon opted for the Saniflo Saniaccess 3 full-bathroom macerating pump, which proved to be the perfect fit, particularly in renovation scenarios where avoiding concrete excavation is preferred.
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Saniflo’s Saniaccess 3 macerating pump system converts unused mudroom into dream en-suite.
    ID 127682942 © Oleksii Synelnykov | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_127682942
    Feb. 28, 2025
    The Heavy Metal Summer Experience attracts students from all backgrounds and ethnicities, including 18.7% female students.
    Triange Tube
    Recalled Prestige Excellence and Prestige Solo boilers.
    Feb. 28, 2025
    The boilers can release carbon monoxide (CO) due to delayed ignitions or component damage, posing a risk of serious injury or death.
    ID 78327931 © Crackerclips | Dreamstime.com
    American and Texas state flags flying on the dome of the Texas State Capitol building in Austin.
    Feb. 28, 2025
    The event was co-sponsored by numerous organizations collectively representing thousands of licensed professionals across Texas.
    Plumbers and Gasfitters Local 12
    Left to right, Local 537 Business Agent Dan Coady, Braintree Mayor Erin Joyce, Plumbers and Gasfitters Local 12 Business Agent Pat Mulkerrin and Greater Boston Plumbing and Contractors Association Executive Director Andrew DeAngelo.
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Local 12, Greater Boston PCA, South Shore Building Trades Council, National Electrical Contractors of Greater Boston and the New England MCA donate state-of-the-art scoreboard...
    Peerless
    ctr2504_peerless
    Feb. 28, 2025
    This week's product gallery spotlights a clean, modern bath faucet collection; an all-in-one hydronic descaling kit; decorative shower drain lines; a smart, hybrid heat pump water...
    ID 144900203 © Dziewul | Dreamstime.com
    A hydronic heating system manifold.
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Forecast from USD Analytics predicts an annual growth rate of 6.4%.
    vdma
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Alliance of the sanitary industry and installation technology will be exhibiting in Hall 3.1 at Stand D73, together with the VDMA Valves Association and the umbrella organization...
    Greenlee
    entrybannervar1
    Feb. 27, 2025
    Last day to enter to win an all-expense paid trip is April 14.
    phccef
    Feb. 26, 2025
    Scholarship amounts vary between $1,500 and $10,000, with most scholarships valued at $3,000.
    KBIS
    A packed room for the opening ceremonies of Design & Construction Week.
    Feb. 26, 2025
    Annual co-location of KBIS and IBS brings excitement, community and David Spade to opening.
    pmilogo
    Feb. 26, 2025
    This achievement highlights Downie’s outstanding leadership, vision and commitment to the plumbing industry.
    PPI
    PP Flange Adapter.
    Feb. 26, 2025
    PPI TN-71, “Flanges and Flange Adapters for Polypropylene (PP-R & PP-RCT) Piping Systems”, is now available.
    servicetradelogo
    Feb. 25, 2025
    Technician survey gives commercial service business owners actionable insights as 53% say hiring is their top challenge.
    ID 343781724 © Serhii Hryshchyshen | Dreamstime.com
    dreamstime_m_343781724
    Feb. 24, 2025
    PMI gives advice on how to purchase genuine, high-quality plumbing fixtures and fittings.
    abc_75th_anniversary_logo_color_1
    Feb. 24, 2025
    Construction Safety Week began in 2014 when more than 40 national and global construction firms joined forces to promote jobsite safety.
    CEO Warrior
    Seminar attendees.
    Feb. 24, 2025
    The global business training, coaching and implementation group’s workshop helps service business owners with the skills they need for growth.
    GF Building Flow Solutions
    The mobile unit made its debut at the recent 2025 AHR Expo in Orlando, Fla., and has now begun its first leg of the tour with stops in Miami, Tampa, and Jacksonville this week.
    Feb. 24, 2025
    This mobile experience consists of an education and discovery space to promote the Uponor brand and showcase products, services, and innovation.
    Delta
    brizo
    Feb. 24, 2025
    As the company pursues growth in the luxury segment, Barb Fuller joins as Vice President of Luxury.
    IAPMO
    go_blue_for_plumbing_1200_x_1200_px
    Feb. 21, 2025
    Because the essential work of plumbing professionals often goes unnoticed, IAPMO make it visible by turning social media blue on March 11, 2025.