06.24.10 Association News

PMI Welcomes Fair Trade Committee Co-Chair

Mike Douglass

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) President Lee Mercer of Moen Incorporated has made his selection for a new co-chair to help lead PMI’s Fair Trade Committee. Mike Douglass, manager of faucet engineering for Elkay Manufacturing Company, will serve alongside existing co-chair, Dale Gallmann, product compliance manager for Bradley Corporation.

While effective immediately, the three-year term for this position officially begins with the 2010 PMI Fall Meeting, being held in Washington, D.C., October 3-6 at the Liaison Capitol Hill.

Please see the full news release and portrait available at PMI’s online press room.

05.21.10 Association News

PMI Welcomes New Technical Committee Co-Chair

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) President Lee Mercer of Moen Incorporated has made his selection for a new co-chair to help lead PMI’s Technical Committee. Mark Malatesta, fittings engineer for American Standard Brands, will serve alongside existing Co-chair Casey Hayes, director of engineered solutions for Haws Corporation. Klaus Fromme recently retired from Bradley Corporation, leaving this opening for a co-chair.

While effective immediately, the three-year term for this position officially begins with the 2010 PMI Fall Meeting, being held in Washington, D.C., Oct. 3-6, at the Liaison Capitol Hill. Malatesta is an experienced committee chair, having previously served as co-chair of the Member Services Committee.

Mark Malatesta

Mercer’s decision to appoint Malatesta was based upon PMI meeting attendance, leadership, expertise and an overall commitment to PMI.

Please see the full news release and portrait available at PMI’s online press room.

04.19.10 Association News

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute volunteers on San Diego Habitat for Humanity project

Preceding the Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) Spring Meeting this March, members and staff volunteered on Habitat for Humanity’s G Avenue project in National City, CA. PMI‘s team assisted with foundation preparation, retaining wall construction, irrigation system installation and other tasks. When completed in 2011, the project will provide eight semi-attached, two-story homes. Each home will have three bedrooms and one-and-a-half baths.

The association’s board president, Lee Mercer, director of product compliance for Moen Incorporated (North Olmsted, OH), led PMI’s Habitat team. “PMI and its members play a critical role in providing safe, clean drinking water and sanitary conditions. This directly and positively contributes to healthy lives and livelihoods for people across the globe,” says Mercer.

He continues, “This is the first year that we’ve included a hands-on opportunity, allowing members to personally contribute their time. It’s a way for us to give back, leave a positive impression and remain connected to the community hosting our meeting. We hope to incorporate similar activities into future meetings.”

Key volunteers on San Diego Habitat for Humanity‘s G Avenue project in National City, included: Barbara C. Higgens, executive director, PMI; David Hagopian, director of strategy and technology, PMI; Peter Jahrling, director of design engineering, Sloan Valve Company (Franklin Park, IL); Sally Remedios, product compliance manager, Delta Faucet Company (Indianapolis, IN); and Matt Dos Remedios, production planner, American Faucet and Coatings Corporation (Vista, CA).

Volunteers received on-site supervision and guidance from John Pulliam, volunteer coordinator, and Joe Carton, site superintendent. Ken Kosman, chief construction officer for the San Diego Habitat for Humanity, offered advance coordination for the PMI team. Kosman spoke at the Spring Meeting, thanking PMI for its volunteers’ efforts and $500.00 donation, and for its members’ ongoing and past donations of plumbing products and materials.

Dedicated to eliminating substandard, poverty housing from its community, the San Diego Habitat for Humanity relies on contributions of land, materials, money and labor to keep building costs low. Partner families invest hundred of hours of their own “sweat equity” and qualify for a zero-interest mortgage that is no more than a third of their income. Mortgage payments are typically less than rental fees charged for inadequate shelter and unsafe living conditions.

“With adequate housing, families can devote more attention to career opportunities, education and health,” according to Kosman. “As the crushing cycle of poverty is broken, children benefit, neighborhoods change for the better, and entire communities improve.”

San Diego Habitat for Humanity has constructed more than 100 homes throughout the county. Learn more at http://www.sdhfh.org/.

For more information about the PMI Spring Meeting, visit http://www.pmihome.org or call 847-481-5500. PMI’s 2010 Fall Meeting will take place October 3-6, 2010, at the Liaison Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

Please see the full news release and high-resolution photos available at PMI’s online press room.

04.12.10 Association News

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute Hosts Spring Meeting

The Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) hosted its Spring Meeting, March 14-17, 2010, at the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego, CA.

The theme for the Spring Meeting, “Expanding the Value,” is an appropriate one, according to Barbara C. Higgens, PMI’s executive director. “As times change and the plumbing industry changes, PMI is working to expand membership, influence, offerings, service and global reach.”

PMI again assembled a top-notch list of guest speakers and topics that both informed and entertained.

The first, full day of the meeting, Mon., March 15, opened with a keynote presentation by Brett Farmiloe and Zach Hubbell entitled “Pursue the Passion: What Our Generation Wants,” which spotlighted Generation Y and what they are looking for in their careers. Their presentation was followed by John Besmer of Planet Propaganda who spoke on branding PMI and its initiatives. The rest of the day consisted of PMI’s Issue, Standing and Product committees’ meetings that included a presentation by Ken Kosman of Habitat for Humanity, who accepted a donation from PMI in the amount of $500. The financial support followed PMI’s “physical” support as members volunteered at a local Habitat for Humanity jobsite just prior to the PMI conference.

The membership voted to accept the 2009 audit at the General Membership meeting. “PMI continues its solid financial track record,” noted Higgens.

The sessions on Tues., March 16, started with a presentation by Amir Tabakh of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, who spoke on the subjects of water and energy conservation. Dr. Bruce La Belle of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control examined California’s AB 1953 lead in plumbing reduction and green chemistry initiative.

The Industrial Environmental Association‘s executive director, Patti Krebs made a presentation on California’s Environmental Initiatives. Bryan Shirley of the Manufacturers’ Agents National Association spoke on the importance of manufacturers’ representatives in the business world.

In a special presentation, Jack Sim of the World Toilet Organization explained the dire state of sanitation in third world countries and what plumbing manufacturing organizations can do to help. Jeffrey Yoders of Building Construction and Design proved why he is referred to as “BIM Boy” by presenting the latest information on Building Information Modeling mandates. Dr. Donato Lozano of IAPMO R&T examined plumbing product certification in Mexico.

A plumbing industry profile also took place on Tues., March 16, to identify mutual goals and solidify partnerships. Representatives of various plumbing organizations engaged in a lively roundtable event addressing the issues that “keep them up at night” concerning the plumbing industry. The panel included Mike Adelizzi, American Supply Association; Peter Censky, Water Quality Association; Mary Ann Dickinson, Alliance for Water Efficiency; Gerry Kennedy, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors; John Koeller, Koeller & Associates; Steve Lehtonen, GreenPlumbers® USA; and Ralph Suppa, Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating.

College football coaching legend, Terry Bowden, was the Tuesday night dinner keynote speaker. He spoke about what it takes to create a winning team on the playing field and in the business world.

On Wed., March 17, PMI’s director of strategy and technology, David Hagopian, and PMI’s technical specialist, Charles Hernandez, presented “Focus: Future!” During this presentation, PMI members were challenged to think about what the future holds for PMI and the plumbing industry.

For more information about the PMI Spring Meeting, visit www.pmihome.org or call 847-481-5500. Please note that the 2010 Fall Meeting will take place October 3-6, 2010, at the Liaison Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

Please see the full news release and high-resolution photos available at PMI’s online press room.

04.08.10 Association News

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute Announces Changes to Board of Directors

The Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) announces that Jack Krecek,

Jack Krecek

vice president and general manager of the Commercial Business Unit for Elkay Manufacturing Company, has moved into the role of First Vice President and will serve as PMI’s President in 2011.

The move was prompted by the departure of Bill Ball, vice president of engineering for WCM Industries, from the Executive Committee due to increasing demands on his time, which prevents him from fulfilling his PMI role. Ball remains on the Board of Directors as a Director at Large. Stewart Yang, vice president of engineering for Kohler Co., will move into the role of Second Vice President. Yang will become PMI President in 2012.

Jeff Baldwin, engineering manager for T&S Brass and Bronzeworks, was named to the PMI Executive Committee as Treasurer for the balance of 2010, completing Yang’s term.

Please see the full news release and high-resolution photos available at PMI’s online press room.

02.24.10 Association News

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute announces hiring of Technical Specialist

PMI announces that Charles Hernandez has joined the organization as technical specialist, reporting to PMI‘s executive director, Barbara C. Higgens.

Charles Hernandez

Hernandez will be responsible for fielding and researching members’ technical questions, analyzing and reporting on proposed code and standard changes and attending and monitoring code and standard hearings and meetings.

“We are delighted to have Charles join our organization,” said Higgens. “As his title implies, Charles will support PMI’s technical initiatives primarily in the area of codes and standards. He brings with him a wealth of practical knowledge, having been a licensed plumber, a project manager and an advocate. Charles will work with PMI’s director of strategy and technology, David Hagopian, who joined PMI earlier this month.”

Hernandez most recently worked as an independent consultant, providing guidance on project management, efficiency improvements and maintenance management. He also has worked with the Illinois Labor Relations Board as a board member, administering the Illinois Labor Relations Act and policymaking actions in regards to state law.

Hernandez resides in Batavia, IL, with his wife and daughter.

Please see the full news release available at PMI’s online press room.

02.10.10 Association News

The Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) announced the dates and locations for its 2010 meetings:

PMI Spring Meeting
March 14-17, 2010
Hotel Del Coronado, San Diego

PMI Fall Meeting
October 3-6, 2010
The Liaison Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.

PMI prepares a top-notch agenda of speakers and industry topics for each of the meetings. For more information on PMI or its semi-annual meetings, please contact the Institute at 847-481-5500 or www.pmihome.org .

02.05.10 Association News

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute welcomes New Board Member and Committee Chair

PMI announces the election of Fernando Fernandez to the PMI Board of Directors as a director at large and the appointment of Michael Martinez as the co-chair of the Universal Conformity Assessment Committee.

Fernando Fernandez

Fernandez, deputy director of codes and standards for TOTO USA, will begin his appointment immediately. “I enthusiastically look forward to serving my term on the board and contributing to shaping some key decisions that will help the membership and the growth of PMI,” he said.

Fernandez also serves as a co-chair of the Plumbing Products Committee.

Martinez, manager of product compliance for Price Pfister, will begin his chairmanship with the 2010 PMI Spring Meeting. Martinez will serve with Maja Jankov of Duravit USA.

When asked to comment on his appointment, Martinez stated, “Being selected to serve on a PMI committee allows me to be involved in industry issues with the great support of our member companies. I look forward to continued learning and growing by being involved with PMI.”

PMI congratulates. Martinez and thanks all those who submitted their names for the available position.

Please see the full news release available at PMI’s online press room.

02.02.10 Association News

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute names New Director of Strategy and Technology

David Hagopian

PMI announces that David Hagopian has joined the organization as director of strategy and technology. In this position, Hagopian will be responsible for analyzing and reporting proposed code and standard changes, maintaining and managing effective relationships with PMI members, certification agencies and industry peers and representing PMI at various industry meetings.

“We are delighted to welcome David to PMI,” commented Barbara C. Higgens, PMI’s executive director. “Over the past months, we carefully evaluated a number of talented candidates for the position, each with a variety of skill sets. David was the clear standout as he brings with him a unique blend of analytical skills, consensus building capabilities and strategic insight together with an excellent technical background. As director of strategy and technology, he will help us take PMI to even greater heights.”

Hagopian can be reached by calling PMI’s headquarters at 847-481-5500 or by e-mail at dhagopian@pmihome.org.

Prior to his work at PMI, Hagopian spent several years with Fortune Brands, most recently as their senior director of technical innovation. He held responsibility for providing management and guidance in product, process and business development. Fortune Brands is a Fortune Magazine Top 500 company.

Prior to joining Fortune Brands, Hagopian’s professional experiences included work in the oil, chemical and aerospace industries, as well as the U.S. government. He has experience in operations, marketing and business development.

Hagopian holds a B.S. in chemical engineering from Northeastern University and an M.B.A. from California Polytechnic State University. He resides in the Chicagoland area with his wife and four children.

Please see the full news release available at PMI’s online press room.

01.06.10 Association News

Plumbing Manufacturers Institute hosts 2010 Spring Meeting

The Plumbing Manufacturers Institute (PMI) will host its 2010 Spring Meeting, March 14-17, at the Hotel Del Coronado, located in San Diego, CA.

This year’s meeting will revolve around the theme “Expanding the Value.” 2010 PMI President, Lee Mercer, director of product compliance for Moen Incorporated, has pledged, during his term, to expand PMI value to existing members, prospective members and globally.

In keeping with the theme, PMI is working to expand the value of the Spring Meeting by putting together a list of top-notch speakers and guests that both inform and entertain.

The PMI Spring Meeting will kick off with an opening keynote by Brett Farmiloe and Zach Hubbell, who will present a program entitled, “Pursue the Passion.” This program focuses on a subject many managers are facing today, how to motivate and ignite the passions of younger generations.

Sustainability, legislation, regulation and standards harmonization remain high on PMI’s radar screen. As such, PMI will host a plumbing industry profile, set for Tuesday, March 16. This roundtable event will cover international and domestic plumbing issues affecting the industry. Guests invited to participate in this discussion include representatives from Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Singapore and key water and plumbing associations in the United States.

The Hotel Del Coronado, the location for the PMI Spring Meeting, is a beachfront gem located on Coronado Island in San Diego. This historic hotel was built 120 years ago and maintains a rich legacy. The Del Coronado has hosted celebrities and dignitaries from around the world.  PMI has secured a group rate of $199 a night and encourages attendees not to miss out on a great meeting being hosted in a great location at a great price.

Please see the full news release available at PMI’s online press room.