The merger between the Radiant Professionals Alliance and the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials is in the final stages.

Three indoor environmental industry associations announced they are working together on educational initiatives to benefit the industry’s hydronics and radiant panel sectors.

First Supply announced Ted Meyer as the new general manager of the company’s facilities in Dubuque, Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Platteville, Wis.

Edward “Ed” Hardison, formerly of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating, died on Dec. 15, 2011.

A. O. Smith Corp. announced that President and Chief Operating Officer Ajita G. Rajendra has been elected to the company’s Board of Directors.

ACCA, AHRI and HARDI will collaborate on educational initiatives to benefit the industry’s hydronics and radiant panel sectors.

Passive, or “zero energy,” houses maintain a comfortable interior climate without active heating and cooling systems.

The drop in industry unemployment, unaccompanied by a rise in construction employment, suggests workers are finding jobs in other industries, retiring, returning to school or training, or leaving the workforce. That may make hiring more difficult when construction demand picks up.

Construction contractors, architects and engineers could see higher rates next year.