PHCC has released its 2026 Industry Environmental Scan, offering a forward-looking snapshot of the forces shaping the plumbing, heating, and cooling industry in the year ahead. The report points to a mixed but opportunity-filled landscape, with continued labor shortages, modest and uneven construction growth, and steady demand driven by infrastructure work, data centers, and residential remodeling. Workforce challenges remain front and center as retirements outpace new entrants, keeping skilled talent in high demand.

The outlook also highlights accelerating technology adoption, including growing use of AI tools to improve scheduling, customer communication, and operational efficiency, alongside continued consolidation across the industry. As contractors head into 2026, the report emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, adaptability, and staying informed on shifting market conditions to navigate cost pressures and emerging opportunities. Click here to read the full article.

The PHCC Educational Foundation is expanding its scholarship program in 2026, offering 75 awards totaling $180,000 to help reduce the cost barrier of technical training. These scholarships are designed to support individuals pursuing plumbing and HVACR careers, whether they are apprentices, trade school students, or college students working toward industry-related degrees. Awards range from $1,500 to $10,000, with most set at $3,000, helping recipients stay on track with education and career advancement.

Applications are now open and require a short written submission along with a letter of recommendation from an employer, instructor, or academic advisor. All materials must be submitted by May 1. This expanded effort reflects a continued focus on strengthening the future workforce by keeping training accessible and career paths moving forward. Click here for more information.

As contractors rely more on digital tools, project software, and connected devices, cybersecurity risks are rising quickly. Tight project schedules, large budgets, and multiple parties accessing shared data make the industry an attractive target for cyberattacks. Many firms are still working with outdated software, fragmented systems, or inconsistent security practices, which increases the chances of data breaches, downtime, and operational disruptions. Even a single day lost to an attack can lead to significant financial and scheduling impacts.

Strengthening protection starts with recognizing the vulnerabilities created by legacy systems, poorly integrated technology, and limited access controls. Contractors can lower their risk by updating outdated platforms, improving system integration, using secure authentication practices, monitoring networks closely, and backing up critical data regularly. As the industry becomes more reliant on digital workflows, treating cybersecurity as a core part of business operations—not an afterthought—is essential for keeping projects safe, on time, and moving forward. Click here to read more.

Cybersecurity has become a major vulnerability for today’s contractors as construction companies adopt more digital tools and connected systems. Tight project schedules and large budgets make the industry a prime target for ransomware, and many firms are still relying on outdated software or fragmented tech setups that increase their exposure. With multiple parties accessing project data—owners, contractors, subs, design teams—weak permissions, inconsistent patching, and legacy systems can quickly turn into serious operational risks.

Industry experts stress that many construction companies still lack modern detection tools and continue using unsupported software, leaving gaps that cybercriminals can exploit. Strengthening cybersecurity requires phasing out obsolete systems, improving integration between platforms, and implementing safeguards like multifactor authentication, network monitoring, and reliable backups. As digital transformation accelerates, protecting technology infrastructure is becoming just as important as protecting the jobsite. Click here to read more.

What a night! MACCA and SWFL PHCC turned up the heat (and kept things flowing) for the biggest HVAC & Plumbing mixer in SWFL. Contractors, vendors, and industry pros packed the room, swapped ideas, made connections, and had a blast — all with complimentary admission, a free first drink, and tasty hors d’oeuvres to keep the energy going. ️

A huge shoutout to our superstar sponsors: Title Sponsor – Gorman Company / Gorman's Gallery Kitchen & Bath Studio, Hospitality Sponsor – RGF Environmental Inc., Swag Bag Sponsor – Willscot, Bar Sponsor – Suncoast Metals, Photo Sponsor – Filters Done Right. You helped make this night unforgettable!

And let’s not forget our amazing vendors who brought the magic: Above & Beyond, ACProsite.com, Calcs-Plus, Cogent Bank, CrossRhodes Consulting, Daikin, Empower Path Advisors, Enterprise Fleet Management, Federated Insurance, Filters Done Right, Gorman Company / Gorman's Gallery Kitchen & Bath Studio, Johnstone Supply, Mitsubishi Electric, NIFT Business Solutions, PrimoAire, SignZoo, Sunbelt Marketing, Sunshine 811, Trane Supply, Thread Source, Inc., Willscot, Winsupply of Bradenton. You all made this night flow smoother than a perfectly tuned A/C system! ❄️

Missed it? No worries! MACCA and SWFL PHCC always have events, networking nights, and opportunities to connect with the industry, so don’t be left out next time. Keep your calendar ready and check out what’s coming at macca.us and swflphcc.org 

As operating costs continue to rise—materials, fuel, insurance, and competitive wages for skilled technicians—many plumbing businesses are discovering that their pricing no longer reflects their true expenses. This article emphasizes that raising prices isn’t about gouging customers; it’s about keeping a business healthy, sustainable, and able to deliver the level of service homeowners expect. When margins get too thin, companies struggle to invest in training, maintain quality staff, or offer reliable service, making periodic price adjustments not only reasonable but essential for long‑term stability.

The key, however, lies in how those changes are communicated. Customers respond far better when businesses clearly explain the value they provide: trained and certified technicians, quality materials, dependable response times, and professional workmanship. The article encourages plumbing companies to be honest, consistent, and confident—training teams to speak about pricing without hesitation and focusing on trust rather than competing to be the cheapest. Done well, price adjustments strengthen customer relationships, improve profitability, and allow companies to better serve their communities. Click here to read more.

As plumbing technology continues to advance, technicians are taking on the role of educators—helping homeowners understand how modern upgrades like leak detection systems, smart monitoring tools, tankless heaters, and trenchless repair methods can protect their homes and save money long-term. PHCC contractors across the country emphasize that clear communication is key: customers won’t consider high‑tech solutions unless technicians can explain the real‑world benefits, such as preventing flood damage, improving efficiency, or reducing disruption to their property. Training is essential, and companies are investing in hands‑on practice, demos, and role‑playing so their teams feel confident explaining options and tailoring recommendations to each customer.

Another major theme is trust. Today’s homeowners—whether tech‑savvy younger buyers or older clients seeking reliability—want solutions that match their needs. Technicians must listen first, then guide, rather than simply “sell.” PHCC leaders stress that upgrades succeed when techs genuinely believe in the products and present them as part of thoughtful service. For specialized work like trenchless repairs, some contractors even partner with other firms to offer turnkey solutions without overextending their own teams. Ultimately, the goal is helping customers make smarter decisions, building long‑term relationships, and elevating the professionalism of the plumbing industry. Click here to read more.

Sustainability isn’t just for big companies. Small and mid-size plumbing contractors can make meaningful improvements that save money, reduce waste, and appeal to environmentally conscious clients—all without huge budgets. From reusing materials to sourcing locally, these practical steps help contractors operate more efficiently and responsibly.

Focus on low-cost strategies: plan materials to reduce offcuts, recycle or repurpose waste, switch to LED lighting, enforce anti-idling, and consider hybrid or electric tools. Engaging your crews in sustainability initiatives—like challenges, toolbox talks, and recognizing wins—fosters a culture that attracts and retains the next generation of talent.

Small, intentional decisions—like buying locally, reducing fleet fuel use, and sharing tools—can have a big impact. As 2026 begins, contractors who embed sustainability into daily operations and client interactions will be best positioned to thrive. Click here to read more.

PHCC is introducing Visionary Peer Groups, a new coach-led program designed to help plumbing, heating, and cooling service and repair business owners and general managers grow their operations and tackle challenges.

Starting January 2026, small groups (up to 15 participants) will meet monthly via Zoom for 1–1½ hours. Participants will share industry experience, receive expert guidance on business growth and operations, and work in a confidential, supportive environment to act as a “board of advisors” for one another.

Interested in joining the first group? Sign up by Dec. 31, 2025. Click here to learn more.

The Florida Building Commission is preparing the 9th Edition (2026) update to the Florida Building Code (FBC), and they want YOUR input. Early next year, rule development workshop(s) will be held to gather public feedback on the proposed Supplements to the current 8th Edition (2023) FBC. These Supplements, along with the 8th Edition, form the draft 9th Edition update, following Florida’s triennial code update process.

The Supplements include all modifications approved by a 75% majority vote of the Commission, as well as previously adopted amendments.

Key Dates & Details:

• Written comments accepted through: January 30, 2026, 5:00 p.m.

• Where to submit comments: mo.madani@myfloridalicense.com

• Workshops: Dates and details to be announced soon

For those following the process closely, the Building Code Information System/Proposed Code Modification Module has been updated with actions and outcomes from the December 9, 2025, Commission meeting. A summary of tracking charts from this meeting is also available here.

Review the Draft 9th Edition (2026) and Supplements here

If you have questions, the Building Codes and Standards Office can be reached at (850) 487-1824.