Plumbing systems are often overlooked until they fail. Educational institutions can attract new talent by showcasing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems with exposed piping and interactive elements. Features like color-coded pipes and transparent mechanical rooms can educate and inspire students about the vital role of plumbing in modern infrastructure.

Sustainability in commercial plumbing focuses on modern pipe sizing to reduce material use and Legionella risk. Efficient layouts and lower-carbon materials like PEX and recycled PVC can lower greenhouse gas emissions, while improved equipment efficiency and training help reduce operational and embodied carbon emissions.

Plumbing engineering is increasingly complex, facing challenges like water conservation and safety concerns, yet it remains underappreciated. A focused industry survey is essential to collect vital data on hiring practices and opportunities for plumbing professionals compared to HVAC. This will help elevate the field's recognition and address the risks of neglecting plumbing expertise.

After a car accident in 2022 left Jesse Faust partially paralyzed, he became an advocate for fire safety while building a new home in Wisconsin, emphasizing the importance of installing fire sprinklers. Fire safety experts like Bill Sullivan highlight that, unlike smoke alarms, sprinklers actively combat fires, making them crucial for protecting lives, especially for those who may struggle to escape.

The code development cycle for the 2027 National Standard Plumbing Code (NSPC) is open. I encourage your participation in the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) and the International Code Council (ICC) activities, as your involvement is vital for public health and safety. For guidance, feel free to call me at Regulosity. I look forward to seeing you at the next code hearing!

J. Michael Galway, PE, LEED AP, CPD, is well-respected by his peers for his expertise, attention to detail, calming professional demeanor, and the fact that he’s not afraid to get out into the field and get his hands dirty, which is why he has been selected as Plumbing & Mechanical’s 2024 Mechanical Engineer of the Year.

As government electrification target dates loom in the near future, and power transmission systems get pushed closer to their limits, utility companies continue implementing ways to manage peak demand.

The deadline to apply is Dec. 6.

The event also offered ASPE-accredited Continuing Education Units (CEUs), enhancing participants' knowledge and professional development.

The award is presented every two years to a nominee with attributes including technical mastery and a passion for hydronic technologies, demonstrated leadership as an educator and mentor, and an aptitude for cultivating fundraising opportunities for industry causes.