D.C. Debrief
John offers valuable insight from his recent lobbying trip to Washington, D.C., where he joined the Plumbing Industry Leadership Coalition (PILC) to advocate for key industry issues. The agenda was wide-ranging, covering critical topics such as WaterSense, research and development funding, tariffs, and workforce development challenges. While navigating the complexities of Capitol Hill, John observed firsthand that not all meetings carry the same weight—and that post-meeting debriefs with policymakers are inconsistent at best, highlighting the nuanced and often unpredictable nature of political engagement.
NIST Cuts
While in Washington, D.C., John participated in meetings at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), where he learned of looming workforce reductions and budget cuts. These potential setbacks could significantly affect key programs and raise serious concerns about the future of American manufacturing innovation and the country’s ability to remain competitive in global markets.
Tekmar Invita 564 WiFi Thermostat
Check out Eric’s recent video of the Tekmar Invita® 564 WiFi Thermostat. Designed to simplify smart thermostat upgrades and furnace-to-heat pump conversions, the Invita 564 makes installation easier than ever. Using the existing two wires from any living space, it connects to an HVAC Interface Module located in the mechanical room—delivering advanced control without the need for new wiring.
New Podcasts
Appetite For Construction: This week the guys travel to Bishopville, Md., to talk with Lauren and Josh Martin, owners of Seaside Plumbing about being active in the community, whether it’s through creative marketing, philanthropy work or visiting with schools to talk up the trades or hosting plumbing camps. Listen Here.
Make Trades Great Again: Have we become too complacent when it comes to ordering online? It’s 2025, and yet, for whatever reason, this online supplier is asking for four forms of order verification and signatures upon delivery for regular, everyday plumbing and hvac material orders. Listen Here.
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