I write for a living. I don’t work on pipes and fixtures.
When it comes to plumbing, you’re the professionals. I’ve gained a lot of knowledge from you over these years as editor of this magazine, but it’s just enough for me to know not to try it at home and get myself into trouble. There is a lot of stuff I still don’t know.
I often get asked what I do for a living and when I explain what COLE Publishing writes about, there is always surprise from people that there are magazines focused on the clean-water and wastewater industries.
People don’t often appreciate what you do, but I think it’s primarily because they don’t really know what you do and what it involves.
CONVERSATIONS WITH YOU
When I talk to these people about what I do, I try to tell them the best I can about the technology you’re using, the skills you need and everything else. I tell them about how the plumbers I’ve talked to are probably some of the most professional individuals out there among any profession.
The more I explain, the more the light comes on for them and they start to see the significance of the plumbing industry. Your work touches everyone, whether they know it or not.
I would not be able to share that about this industry if it weren’t for the conversations I’ve had with many of you over the phone, through email and at the trade shows I’ve run into you at.
One of the first things I was told when I started at Plumber was the importance of avoiding the plumber stereotypes and potty humor. At first I was very mindful of that, but as I’ve gotten to know you, I don’t ever think about those things because they simply don’t represent who and what you are at all.
EVOLUTION
As the technology in the plumbing world has evolved, you have also. The level of knowledge and technical know-how you have sets you apart from the plumbers of the past, and I think that’s an important message to send to both potential customers and future plumbers.
The profile in this issue talks about the evolution of a California-based company. Where they started, where they are now and where they are going in the future. Without evolution, nothing can get better.
HEARING MORE
I feel like I’ve evolved in my writing about this industry thanks to attending shows and talking to you. I’m proud to serve you. It’s been an education, and one for which I’m thankful. I’d like to continue hearing from you and hearing your story. Email me at editor@plumbermag.com.
Enjoy this month’s issue.
