Immediate Past President Chris Salazar has been active in the field for more than twenty-five years. After completing his apprenticeship and working as a journeyman in the 1980s, he continued his education, earning a degree in construction technology from Ventura College in 1994. Certification from IAPMO and ICBO as a plumbing, mechanical, and building inspector followed, as did certification as a medical gas inspector from P.I.P.E. That same year, he began working for the city of Thousand Oaks as a combination building inspector. Salazar was promoted to senior plumbing and mechanical plan checker/inspector for Thousand Oaks In 1998. He started instructing for Local 484’s journeyman and apprenticeship program, and found the duties connected with both positions very rewarding. Even with the demands of work, Salazar took the time to get more deeply involved in IAPMO. He sought membership on committees and was appointed to the Plumbing Code, Solar Code and a few ad hoc committees. In 1999, he was elected to IAPMO's Board of Directors. While on the board, Salazar was appointed to serve on several committees, including the Audit, Bylaws, and Membership committees. He also vice chairs both the R&T Board of Directors and Executive Committee. He was elected vice president of IAPMO in 2002, and president in 2004.

A native of southern California, Salazar lives in Ventura County. He is particularly passionate for water sports (surfing, diving and fishing), but is enthusiastic about all sports. Reflecting on his affiliation with IAPMO, he summed up his values: "As a father and an inspector, I know the importance of codes and standards, and that their purpose is to protect the health and safety of our nation and the world. I truly believe that all of IAPMO’s codes are the best ever written and I am honored to be a part of this organization."