PHCC Texas
BUDA, TX

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association of Texas — PHCC Texas — is a reputable and dynamic organization that represents the interests of plumbing, heating, and cooling contractors across the Lone Star State. With a rich history dating back several decades, PHCC Texas has continuously served as a pillar of support and advocacy for its members, promoting high professional standards and fostering industry excellence.

Through its comprehensive network, PHCC Texas provides valuable resources, training programs, and educational opportunities, empowering its members to stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry. By fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, the association ensures that its members deliver top-quality services and adhere to the latest technological advancements and safety standards.

PHCC Texas also plays a crucial role in engaging with policymakers and regulatory bodies, advocating for legislation that benefits the industry and its consumers. As a trusted authority, the association strives to improve public awareness about the importance of proper plumbing, heating, and cooling systems, promoting the overall well-being of communities throughout Texas.

In our recent code battle, PHCC Texas was an invaluable ally for IAPMO and every jurisdiction in Texas that enjoys the superior protections of the Uniform Plumbing Code. Such advocacy is crucial to informing policy- makers about the benefits of the Uniform Codes and ensuring their continued adoption in Texas and any of the other 66 U.S. states and territories that utilize them, and for that we present PHCC Texas with a 2023 American Flag Award.

“Whether it's supporting contractors' business growth, safeguarding consumer interests, or championing professional development, PHCC Texas remains at the forefront of the plumbing, heating, and cooling sector, leaving a lasting impact on the industry it represents,” said PHCC Texas President Jessica Burden.

UA Local 68
HOUSTON, TX

In May of 1892, the United Association chartered Local 68 in Houston, Texas, with seven charter members. The Local held meetings every week and elected union officers every year. 

By 1924, Local 68 had grown to 125 members and nearly doubled to 218 members five years established in the 1920s. However, in those days apprentices were not allowed to become members until they completed their apprenticeship.

This practice didn’t change until the 1940s when the first apprentices were initiated as members. During the Great Depression Local 68’s members remained united. They had annual picnics and the Ladies Auxiliary Club worked hard to provide for the families of unemployed members. In 1938 Local 68 merged with Local 195 of Beaumont, which became the Industrial Pipe Fitters branch of Local 68. By 1942 the membership had grown to 785.

During the 1950’s Local 68 was progressive and established a Health and Welfare Plan and officers negotiated a journeyman wage scale of $3.17 and a half per hour, insurance contribution of seven and a half cents per hour and established an Apprentice Training Fund at one cent per hour.

During the 1970s and 80s, with additional mergers and expansions, Local 68’s membership grew to almost 1,800.

Today, Local 68 covers 62 counties in Texas, from Louisiana to Mexico along the Gulf Coast, East Texas to South Texas, with training centers in Beaumont, Corpus Christi, McAllen and the main school in Houston.

Local 68 has sent a lot of exceptional people into IAPMO’s ranks, including but certainly not limited to former IAPMO Board of Directors members Ken Borski, Alfred Ortega and John Roth — truly some of the most knowledgable, engaging and trusted individuals the association has ever known.

IAPMO has a special relationship with the United Association and locals like 68 in Texas exemplify the power and importance of our partnership. We honor that relationship by presenting Local 68 with a 2023 American Flag Award.

“On behalf of our business manager, Wayne Lord, we gladly accept this award,” said Local 68 President Brian Granger. “It’s been a rough few years in Austin, trying to beat down the home builders who are trying to wreck our industry. It’s been a battle and one we couldn’t have won without the help of IAPMO staff members like John Mata, Christina Kaeni and Ron Lord. We love to work with you guys and it’s been a pleasure to partner with IAPMO.”