Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI) has introduced a new initiative called Women of PMI, designed to recognise and support the women professionals who contribute to the plumbing manufacturing industry through PMI member companies. This newly launched program aims to offer networking opportunities, leadership and career development resources, and a platform to spotlight the achievements of women within the PMI community.
The first official event under the Women of PMI banner is titled “Women Breaking the Mold: Building Confidence in an Ever-Changing Landscape,” featuring best-selling author and speaker Sheena Yap Chan. Scheduled for July 16 from 1-2 p.m. CT, the complimentary virtual session is open to all women employed by PMI member companies. The event will focus on equipping participants with actionable strategies to grow confidence in both professional and personal arenas.
This new program expands upon the foundation laid by the PMI Women’s Breakfast, a highly appreciated annual event held during the PMI Manufacturing Success Conference. The 2024 conference will take place in Chicago from November 3-6, with this year’s breakfast led by Shelley Paxton, former Chief Marketing Officer of Harley-Davidson. Paxton will share insights from her journey of leaving the corporate world for her “soulbbatical,” aiming to inspire attendees with a message on redefining success and managing burnout.
Jodi Stuhrberg, PMI’s Director of Programs and Administration, who oversees the initiative, expressed the importance of the program, stating, “We’re excited to deliver this program to our women members, many of whom have expressed appreciation for our annual women’s breakfast and interest in a broader program. It’s another way that PMI celebrates multiple approaches and points of view that drive innovation to help member companies grow.”
The initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of PMI to support and connect its members. Denise Dougherty, Global Regulatory Manager at PMI member company Sloan, played a key role in launching the first Women’s Breakfast in 2023. Sharing her perspective, Dougherty noted, “I think a more informed group makes for a more powerful and successful group. By bringing women in the plumbing industry together, I hope our message is heard that we need more women to be involved to get the work done—from the hands that complete installations to those that write the codes and standards.” She emphasised the significance of more women stepping into leadership roles across the sector.
About Plumbing Manufacturers International
Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI) is the trade association of plumbing product manufacturers that produce more than 90% of the United States’ plumbing products, represent more than 150 iconic brands, and develop safe, reliable and innovative water-efficient plumbing technologies. PMI members contribute 517,696 jobs and $116.7 billion in economic impact to America’s economy, according to the Plumbing Manufacturing Industry Economic Impact Study.
With a vision of safe, responsible plumbing – always, PMI advocates for plumbing product performance contributing to water efficiency and savings, sustainability, public health and safety, and consumer satisfaction through its Rethink Water initiative and other programs. PMI members manufacture water-efficient toilets, urinals, faucets, showerheads and other products at more than 70 locations across the country and market them online and in more than 26,000 home improvement stores, hardware stores and showrooms in all 50 states.
