Women in Plumbing & Piping and the International Code Council Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Support Women in the Plumbing Industry

The Women in Plumbing & Piping (WiPP) membership organization was established in 2022 by women seeking to create a community of connection and empowerment for women in the plumbing and piping industries. 

WiPP was founded on the principles of mentorship, networking, education and recognition, with a mission to provide women in plumbing and piping a platform to thrive both personally and professionally.

Supporting Women in Plumbing

On December 21, 2023, the International Code Council and WiPP signed an MOU to collaboratively promote opportunities for women to pursue successful careers in the plumbing industry. This partnership advances the Code Council’s Safety 2.0 mission to welcome and engage a new generation of members and leaders in building safety and illustrates the Code Council’s commitment to increasing inclusivity within the plumbing and piping industries.

“This relationship is the latest in a series of actions we’ve taken to continue our long-time support of the plumbing industry,” said Code Council Plumbing, Mechanical and Fuel Gas Executive Director, Matt Sigler. “We are thrilled to begin this relationship with WiPP and help support their mission of advancing gender inclusivity in the plumbing field.” 

Understanding the importance of supporting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion within the built environment, the goals of WiPP align significantly with the Code Council who strives to advance inclusion in all activities of the association.

SEE RELATED: Updates from the Code Council’s Ad Hoc Committee on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Through the Code Council’s and WiPP’s partnership, both organizations hope to bring the plumbing industry to a new level of excellence by supporting and promoting the contributions of women as an essential component to the future of these trades.

“This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing standards and inclusivity within the plumbing and piping industries,” said Kim Gill, Executive Director, WiPP. “By joining forces with the Code Council, WiPP is poised to make an even greater impact, ensuring that women continue to play an essential role in shaping the future of these vital trades.”

WiPP Celebrates Its First Anniversary

Celebrating its first anniversary in November 2023, WiPP has marked a year of impactful initiatives, fostering community, connection and empowerment for women in the plumbing and piping industries. Since its formal launch, WiPP has become a significant force, driving positive change and advancing diversity within these crucial sectors.

In its inaugural year, the association has achieved notable milestones, setting the stage for continued industry transformation.

Reflecting on WiPP’s journey, Kim Gill, Executive Director, stated, “As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to building on our successes, continuing to collaborate with other industry organizations to amplify our message, and making a positive impact on the industry workforce.”

Key Achievements in WiPP’s First Year

1. Membership and Collaborations:

From the time of its launch at the November 2023 Women in HVACR conference, membership has grown to over 250 members. In this foundational year, WiPP actively sought collaborations with associations and corporations to expand its reach and amplify its impact.

2. Mentorship Programs:

A group mentorship program, to connect women seeking guidance with seasoned professionals, will launch in Q1 2024. This initiative aims to provide support for women newer to the industry.

3. Networking Opportunities:

The association hosted in-person happy hours and participated in panel discussions at several national industry events, launched an online community and continues to hold online networking events to create valuable opportunities for women professionals to connect and collaborate.

4. Education Initiatives:

In addition to in-person educational and networking opportunities, the association hosts quarterly webinars focusing on career development and self-advocacy.

5. Recognition and Scholarships:

WiPP is building out a recognition program to celebrate the achievements and successes of women in the industry. Additionally, the association is providing scholarships starting in 2024 to support women pursuing careers in plumbing and piping, contributing to the growth and diversification of the talent pool.  

WiPP’s Impact Beyond the First Year

Beyond attracting more than 250 members in its first year, the association has expanded its reach by launching eight state chapters, establishing a nationwide presence and influencing the industry on a broader scale.

To learn more about WiPP and get involved, click here.

To learn more about the Code Council’s Safety 2.0 Initiative, click here.