Solving America’s Plumber Shortage: Building the Skilled Trades | CCCT-Video
The plumbing industry has a workforce problem — and the demand for skilled professionals isn’t slowing down.
In this episode of Commercial Construction Coffee Talk (CCCT), host David Corson, Publisher of Commercial Construction & Renovation (CCR), sits down with Kerry Stackpole, CEO and Executive Director of Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI), and Troy Benavidez of LIXIL to discuss the skilled labor shortage facing plumbing, construction and the broader building industry.
The conversation explores why skilled plumbers are essential to virtually every segment of the built environment, how manufacturers and industry organizations are helping develop the next generation of tradespeople and why attracting young people — as well as adults looking for a new career — has become increasingly important.
Kerry discusses the economic importance of plumbing and the enormous workforce challenge facing the profession, while Troy shares observations from WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, where young skilled professionals from around the world competed at the highest levels of their trades.
The discussion also examines how technology is changing the skills future plumbers will need, the relationship between manufacturers and installers and the growing importance of water conservation, water efficiency, reuse and sustainable building practices.
David also discusses CCR’s commitment to skilled-trades education, his recent experience at Kids Building Minnesota and his vision for The Forge Trade School and the Commercial Construction & Renovation Hall of Fame in Cartersville, Georgia.
The message throughout the conversation is clear: America’s skilled trades aren’t yesterday’s careers. They are essential to building tomorrow’s economy.
From plumbing and construction to manufacturing, aviation, data centers, healthcare, hospitality and commercial facilities, the demand for people who know how to build, install, repair and maintain the country’s infrastructure continues to grow.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrystackpole
https://www.linkedin.com/in/troybenavidez
Commercial Construction Coffee Talk brings together the people, companies and organizations helping build and maintain the commercial construction industry.
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