Industry News

Austin’s top plumbing company honored by the Austin Business Journal and The Austin Chronicle. Austin, Texas — Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning, Austin’s No. 1 plumbing and air conditioning home repair specialists, has been listed on the Austin Business Journal’s Fast 50 and named The Austin Chronicle’s Best of Austin for the HVAC and Plumbing Read more

Austin’s top plumbing company honored by the Austin Business Journal and The Austin Chronicle.

Austin, Texas — Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning, Austin’s No. 1 plumbing and air conditioning home repair specialists, has been listed on the Austin Business Journal’s Fast 50 and named The Austin Chronicle’s Best of Austin for the HVAC and Plumbing categories.

Radiant Plumbing ranked 21st in Austin’s Fast 50, presented by the Austin Business Journal. The Austin Fast 50 Awards recognizes Central Texas independent businesses for exceptional revenue growth over the three most recent fiscal years. Financial information is verified by a specified local accounting firm and companies must have generated a minimum of $500,000 in revenue in 2016 to be eligible for nomination. In 2016, Radiant Plumbing had an annual net revenue of $7.7 million. By 2018, Radiant Plumbing increased its net revenue to $13 million.

“We were competing against some great businesses this year,” said Brad Casebier, owner of Radiant Plumbing. “Austin is home to a lot of different industries, and we were the only home service company ranked in the Fast 50 Awards. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone on the Radiant team. Our goal is to continue growing, and for that to happen, we need the best talent to join us in serving the Austin community.”

Radiant Plumbing was also awarded the Best of Austin in the HVAC and Plumbing categories for the second consecutive year. The Best of Austin awards began in 1990 as a collaborative effort between The Austin Chronicle’s audience members and the staff. Categories for these awards include arts and entertainment, nightlife, services, shopping and more. The Austin Chronicle has given over 300 awards to local businesses since 1990.

“Being named the Best of Austin in two categories is a great accomplishment for our team,” Casebier said. “The two awards go hand-in-hand. We’re delivering excellent service to the community, and we are receiving more business because of those efforts. Our team believes in our culture of excellence, and it’s represented by these awards from The Austin Chronicle and the Austin Business Journal.”

For more information about Radiant Plumbing or available positions, please visit https://info.radiantplumbing.com/careers.

Houston—Grundfos will find out who has the guts and let them take home the glory—and $10,000—at National Groundwater Association’s Groundwater Week on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at Grundfos booths #445 and 545. Groundwater Week, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, marks the pinnacle of a year- long WaterPRO Championship competition, which put water well contractors Read more

Houston—Grundfos will find out who has the guts and let them take home the glory—and $10,000—at National Groundwater Association’s Groundwater Week on Wednesday, Dec. 4, at Grundfos booths #445 and 545.

Groundwater Week, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, marks the pinnacle of a year- long WaterPRO Championship competition, which put water well contractors to the test at over 80 qualifying events across the United States and Canada. Our qualifying challenge sent participants barreling towards victory on the Road to Guts & Glory—a timed virtual reality game that tested both industry and Grundfos product knowledge. Nine participants with the highest scores from the U.S. and one participant with the highest score from Canada have been invited to the WaterPRO Championship semifinals at Groundwater Week.

Participants who did not achieve one of the top scores at the qualifying events will have a chance to give one more try at Grundfos’ booth, and the two highest scores will advance to the semifinals. With the final two participants in place, semifinalists will compete in a new challenge involving Grundfos products. Semifinalists with the top three times will advance to the finals for another unique challenge.

The schedule for Dec. 4 is as follows:

  • 10 AM to 1 PM: Qualifying event for past participants at Grundfos booth #545 with opportunity to advance to semifinals
  • 2:15 PM: Semifinals
  • 3:10 PM: WaterPRO Championship final heat
  • 3:25 PM: WaterPRO Championship winner announced
  • 6 to 9 PM: Hospitality event at Hard Rock Café, formal awards ceremony at 6:45 PM

    “This year’s WaterPRO Championship has attracted so much talent,” said Dan Story, vice president of Groundwater sales for Grundfos USA. “We’ve all enjoyed seeing the expertise and skills that these competitors have brought to the table since the qualifying events began in January. And last year’s winner, Jason Johnson, is back to defend his title. The semifinals and finals at Groundwater Week should be a thrilling culmination that challenges some of the most experienced water well contractors in North America.”

    This is the second year Grundfos has held the WaterPRO Challenge. Grundfos will hold the competition throughout 2020 as well. This year’s semifinalists include:

  • Eric Van De Yacht, Leo Van De Yacht Pump, Score 862.53
  • Donovan Sippel, Sippel Well Drilling, Inc, Score 842.85
  • Dustin Merrill, Merrill Drilling and Water Systems, Score 842.01
  • Steve Hartmann, Hartmann Well Co, Score 839.75
  • Ryan Braatz, Book and Proch, 815.89
  • Josh Hagan, Hagan Heating & Plumbing, 809.78
  • Jason Johnson, A1 Water Well Service, Score 808.25 (2018 Winner)
  • Justin Moore, Associated Well Services, Score 804.13
  • Ray Francis, Francis Pump and Well Service, 778.80
  • Mike Philips, Gerritsen Drilling, Score 778

    In the weeks leading up to Groundwater Week, attendees can get to know the participants by watching videos at www.facebook.com/grundfospumpsusa.

    For more information, visit www.grundfos.us/WaterPROChampionship and see Grundfos during NGWA Groundwater Week at Grundfos booths #445 and 545.

    About the Grundfos WaterPRO Program

    The Grundfos WaterPRO program gives dedicated water well contractors exclusive benefits that make doing business easier: private training with Grundfos Technical Sales Managers, access to the Grundfos technical support chat app, customizable service stickers, extended product warranty and other benefits. Learn more at https://grundfos.us/waterpro.

From February 17-20, 2020, the WWETT Show – Water & Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport Show, will take over the Indiana Convention Center for the world’s largest annual trade show within the wastewater & environmental services industry. With new dates for 2020, the four-day trade show packs over 100 world-class education sessions, business opportunities, collaboration Read more

From February 17-20, 2020, the WWETT Show – Water & Wastewater Equipment, Treatment & Transport Show, will take over the Indiana Convention Center for the world’s largest annual trade show within the wastewater & environmental services industry. With new dates for 2020, the four-day trade show packs over 100 world-class education sessions, business opportunities, collaboration with industry professionals, a slate of live demonstrations, exposure to cutting-edge technology trends and the latest product launches across multiple industry segments.

“Over the years, the WWETT Show continues to demonstrate why it is the number one trade show event within the wastewater & environmental services industry,” said Douglas Lugo, director of the WWETT Show. “We recognize the importance of providing a space where professionals can connect and grow their business, as well as sharpen their skills all in one place. Knowing that people walk away from our show with new ideas, connections and equipment, lets us know the WWETT Show is making an impact in the industry.”

Known as the premier global wastewater event of the year, the WWETT Show is home to municipalities, plumbers, portable sanitation professionals, septic contractors, sewer contractors and wastewater professionals. Connecting manufacturers with representatives, highlights the importance of seeking ideas and solutions from respected leaders in the industry, and creates a customized trade show experience all under one roof.

WWETT Show 2020 Key Highlights

Smart Wastewater Initiative
In a time where shrinking water sources and massive flooding are affecting us globally, it is important to discuss how crucial this is to our future’s sustainability. Oliver Grievson, chairman of Wastewater Education 501(c)3, will explore the topic of the smart wastewater industry in three action packed sessions.

Marketplace Expo
The WWETT Show Marketplace will feature over 600 exhibitors, 50 of which are new, looking to expand their business and maximize their buying potential. 6 in 10 attendees place purchase orders at the show and two-thirds of attendees will purchase within the year. On the expo floor, attendees will find thousands of products on display, meet directly with product representatives, as well as see, touch, and feel products and equipment. Top exhibitors to see include:

  • Federal Signal Environmental Solutions Group
  • Satellite Industries
  • Super Products, LLC
    Sewer Equipment Co. of America
  • Imperial Industries, Inc.
  • Hi-Vac Corporation
  • Spartan Tool, LLC
  • GapVax, Inc.
  • CUES
  • Vermeer Corporation
  • JAG Mobile Solutions, Inc.
  • PolyJohn Enterprises, Inc.

World-Class Education
The WWETT Show offers an unparalleled, best-in-value education program led by top industry experts and professionals from respected associations, businesses, and manufacturers. Choose from an array of sessions, obtain continuing education units (CEUs) from approved states, provinces and organizations, or just up your game to gain knowledge on the latest industry trends. With a Full Education Package (FEP), attendees will have access to all sessions listed on the WWETT Show website.

WWETT Live!
The WWETT Show provides up close and personal experiences through live demos. Show attendees can watch leading industry manufacturers in action as they show off their latest products and equipment. Held in Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts, WWETT Live! creates a fun and engaging experience everyone will enjoy. Companies to see include: GapVax, Inc., Hammerhead® Trenchless and NozzTeq® Inc.

Industry Appreciation Party
New to 2020, show attendees will have the opportunity to participate in the WWETT Show Industry Appreciation Party powered by Spartan Tool and Picote. The event will feature live entertainment from Cornfield Mafia and an opportunity for photos with the Indianapolis Colts Cheerleaders. Admission is free to all attendees with a registration badge.

To learn more about the WWETT Show and to register, visit www.wwettshow.com.

McLean, Va. — Plumbing Manufacturers International announced the election of Joel Smith as president of the 2020 PMI Board of Directors. The director of faucets product engineering at Kohler Co., Smith succeeds Nate Kogler, the director of product management at Bradley Corporation. Kogler will continue to serve on the board as immediate past president. Todd Teter Read more

McLean, Va. — Plumbing Manufacturers International announced the election of Joel Smith as president of the 2020 PMI Board of Directors. The director of faucets product engineering at Kohler Co., Smith succeeds Nate Kogler, the director of product management at Bradley Corporation. Kogler will continue to serve on the board as immediate past president.

Todd Teter, senior vice president and general manager, House of Rohl, was elected vice president, and Martin Knieps, director, technical marketing, for Viega LLC, will serve as secretary/treasurer.

Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI), Joel Smith named new president of the 2020 PMI Board of Directors

Plumbing Manufacturers International 2020 Board of Directors (l-r): Michael Martinez, Delta Faucet Co.; Sal Gattone, LIXIL; 2020 Board President Joel Smith, Kohler Co.; Board VP Todd Teter, House Of Rohl; 2019 Board President Nate Kogler, Bradley Corporation; Fernando Fernandez, TOTO USA; Board Secretary/Treasurer Martin Knieps, Viega LLC; & Daniel Gleiberman, Sloan Valve Co.

Smith said he was honored and excited about 2020. While telling members at last week’s PMI19 Conference to be ready for a continual string of surprises and a rapid pace of change, he stated that PMI was “uniquely positioned” to adapt to new issues and challenges such consumer privacy, trade and tariffs, and fulfilling members’ educational needs. “We’re always on and thinking ahead,” he said. “We’re only scratching the surface of PMI’s potential.”

Smith presented a commemorative crystal gavel and Florida flag to Kogler in appreciation of his service as 2019 board president. The flag flew over the Florida state capitol on the first day of the PMI19 Conference. Kogler acknowledged his fellow board members and members who made his time as president so rewarding.

PMI CEO/Executive President Kerry Stackpole delivered a State of PMI Address that gave tribute to PMI members for their faithfulness is fulfilling the vision of “safe, responsible plumbing—always.” He acknowledged PMI staff members for their excellent work. He also recognized Kohler Co.’s Shabbir Rawalpindiwala with the PMI Ambassador Award.

Other members of the 2020 board will be Michael Martinez, product compliance manager, Delta Faucet Co.; Sal Gattone, vice president, engineering, LIXIL; Daniel Gleiberman, manager, product compliance and government affairs, Sloan Valve Co.; and Fernando Fernandez, director codes and standards, TOTO USA.

2020 committee co-chairs will be:

Advocacy/Government Affairs Committee

Lowell Lampen, Kohler Co.

Troy Benavidez, LIXIL

 

Technical Committee

C.J. Lagan, LIXIL

Bob Neff, Delta Faucet Co.

 

Commerce Committee

Elton Perkins, Fluidmaster, Inc.

Liz Renfro, Delta Faucet Co.

 

Water Efficiency and Sustainability Issue Committee

Cambria McLeod, Kohler Co.

Will Wang, Fluidmaster, Inc.

Madison, Wis. based distributor Badger Metals, Inc. and contractor Dave Jones Inc. provide the HVAC equipment and labor in support of Building Homes for Heroes  Johnson Controls has announced YORK®, Ducted Systems leadership, Badger Metals, Inc., and Dave Jones, Inc., along with Building Homes for Heroes held a Welcome Home ceremony in Madison, Wis., for U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Erick Hoefakker Read more

Madison, Wis. based distributor Badger Metals, Inc. and contractor Dave Jones Inc. provide the HVAC equipment and labor in support of Building Homes for Heroes 

Johnson Controls has announced YORK®, Ducted Systems leadership, Badger Metals, Inc., and Dave Jones, Inc., along with Building Homes for Heroes held a Welcome Home ceremony in Madison, Wis., for U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Erick Hoefakker and his family. During his years of service, Sergeant Hoefakker suffered several injuries that continue to afflict him to this day. His new home, provided by Building Homes for Heroes, has been modified to address his specific injuries to keep both Sergeant Hoefakker and his family comfortable and safe.

To support Sergeant Hoefakker, Johnson Controls donated a YORK heating and cooling system with a Wi-Fi® capable YORK touch-screen thermostat to better assist him with adjusting his home’s temperature without the need to get up. Badger Metals, Inc., donated the HVAC system and Dave Jones Inc., donated the installation services for the veteran’s new home.

Justin Patrick, vice president and general manager of residential systems, Johnson Controls, addressed the family and attendees on behalf of YORK to recognize the company’s partnership with Building Homes for Heroes and to honor Sergeant Hoefakker and his family.

“This is the 100th home in which Johnson Controls has participated, and it is our privilege to provide systems that will keep the Hoefakker family safe and comfortable,” said Patrick. “‘Purpose led’ is one of our core values at Johnson Controls, and this partnership exemplifies why we want to be purposeful in making a difference in the lives of the men and women who sacrifice for our county.”

Representatives from Badger Metals Inc. and David Jones Inc., YORK distributors and contractors, attended the ceremony to recognize Sergeant Hoefakker.

“It is our privilege to recognize Sergeant Hoefakker for his sacrifice to our country,” said Holly Kellesvig, COO of Dave Jones, Inc. “One of our core values is “Giving Back” and because of Sergeant Hoefakker’s honor and bravery, we have provided him with exceptional equipment to ensure his family has a safe and comfortable home.”

Building Homes for Heroes is a national organization that recognizes those who serve in the United States Armed Forces by supporting the needs of severely wounded or disabled soldiers and their families. The organization strives to build or renovate quality homes and donate them, mortgage-free, to injured veterans nationwide. Building Homes for Heroes invites anyone wishing to volunteer or donate to the organization to contact Building Homes for Heroes at info@buildinghomesforheroes.org. To learn more about Building Homes for Heroes, visit buildinghomesforheroes.org.

To learn more about Badger Metals, Inc., please visit www.badgermetals.net, and to learn more about Dave Jones, Inc., please visit www.davejonesinc.com or follow them on FacebookTwitter or LinkedIn.