Katherine Lehtinen

More than two years since the launch of its industry-leading podcast “The Fix,” Oatey Co. is continuing to advance the conversation around the skilled trades through an exciting lineup of podcast guests in 2024. “The Fix,” which aims to shed light on the significance of the skilled trades, elevates the voices of many thought leaders Read more

More than two years since the launch of its industry-leading podcast “The Fix,” Oatey Co. is continuing to advance the conversation around the skilled trades through an exciting lineup of podcast guests in 2024. “The Fix,” which aims to shed light on the significance of the skilled trades, elevates the voices of many thought leaders and influential organizations that share a commitment to educating, inspiring and empowering the next generation of trade professionals.

Already this year, “The Fix” co-hosts Katherine Lehtinen and Doug Buchan have been joined in conversation by several compelling guests. Lori Tschol, co-founder of Women in Plumbing and Piping (WiPP) and owner of Eagle Pipe Heating and Air, joined The Fix in January to share her unconventional journey into the trades and the proactive measures WiPP is taking to champion women. Earlier this month, Scott Caron, master electrician and co-host of  “This Old House,” discussed his journey to becoming a master electrician and highlighted the pivotal role of trust, perseverance, and a supportive network in the trades.

Raising the bar for dynamic and community-oriented podcasting, Oatey also hosted its first live podcast show in January at the WWETT trade show in Indianapolis. Chris Price, president of the Indiana Construction Roundtable Foundation, chatted with Katherine Lehtinen and special guest co-host Danielle “Twig” Browne (@thelittlestplumber) about his organization’s efforts to foster the next generation of trades industry leaders, including K-12 and adult programs, plus creating opportunities for those who are overcoming hurdles like poverty and criminal backgrounds.

Listeners can look forward to a full slate of additional guests and topics in the coming year, including conversations with representatives of Women in Manufacturing, Explore the Trades and the Treasure Coast Builders Association.

“Each episode of ‘The Fix’ is much more than a conversation – it’s a connection and a commitment from Oatey to take action in supporting the pipeline of skilled trades talent,” says Katherine Lehtinen, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Oatey and co-host of ‘The Fix.’ “We are very intentional in following up with each of our guests to explore a further partnership, such as financial contributions, training support, in-person collaboration and beyond.”

New this year, listeners and followers can support “The Fix” initiative by purchasing Oatey-branded gear at www.oateyswag.com – each order helps fund donations and partnerships that champion the next generation of skilled trade professionals.

For the latest episode updates and more information, visit https://www.oatey.com/podcasts.

Oatey’s sponsorship enabled significant HVAC and plumbing repairs for Air Force veteran with disabilities Oatey Co., a leading plumbing manufacturer since 1916, recently partnered with nonprofit organization Miracle Mechanical to make one deserving veteran’s hope a reality through significant HVAC and plumbing repairs. Miracle Mechanical was founded by contractor Brent Ridley with the mission of uplifting families Read more

Oatey’s sponsorship enabled significant HVAC and plumbing repairs for Air Force veteran with disabilities

Oatey Co., a leading plumbing manufacturer since 1916, recently partnered with nonprofit organization Miracle Mechanical to make one deserving veteran’s hope a reality through significant HVAC and plumbing repairs.

Miracle Mechanical was founded by contractor Brent Ridley with the mission of uplifting families and communities through plumbing and HVAC repairs at no cost to recipients.

“The whole premise of Miracle Mechanical is to help veterans with disabilities, elderly people and those in need,” says Ridley. “Generous sponsors like Oatey give us the means to transform people’s everyday quality of life.”

Brent Ridley founder of Miracle Mechanical. He founded Miracle Mechanical with the mission of uplifting families and communities through plumbing and HVAC repairs at no cost to recipients.

The recent Oatey-sponsored Miracle Mechanical project provided much-needed help to Cindy Koehler, a U.S. Air Force veteran who has battled multiple sclerosis (MS) and debilitating physical challenges for the past three decades. Koehler lacked clean drinking water for several years due to her home’s failing water filtration system. Rust, germs and other dangerous contaminants polluted the household water supply, making it completely unsafe to consume.

Through Oatey’s sponsorship, Ridley’s team was able to purchase and install brand new appliances, including an electric water heater, two ADA-compliant toilets and a state-the-art water filtration system – ensuring Cindy and her family have access to the best quality water.

The recent Oatey-sponsored Miracle Mechanical project provided much-needed help to Cindy Koehler, a U.S. Air Force veteran who has battled multiple sclerosis (MS) and debilitating physical challenges for the past three decades.

“Something as simple as clean running water, being able to flush a toilet and wash dishes brought tears in my eyes and joy to my heart,” says Koehler. “Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would happen.”

“Improving lives is a core tenet of our mission here at Oatey,” explains Katherine Lehtinen, Oatey’s Senior Vice President, Brand & Digital Marketing. “When we heard about Cindy’s story, we were thrilled to have the opportunity to help. We’re honored to be a part of such an impactful project and make such a big difference for the U.S. Air Force veteran.”