PALM SPRINGS, CA — A high-energy week filled with education, networking and code development, all wrapped in the vibrant atmosphere of one of California’s most iconic destinations, last month’s IAPMO® Education and Business Conference featured a bold, rock ’n’ roll-inspired theme. The experience was designed to be energetic and immersive, capturing the laid-back, desert-style of Palm Springs, while celebrating the passion and innovation that drive the industry.
BRIAN GADBERY
IAPMO CEO Dave Viola applauds while addressing the Opening Session on Sept. 15.
Attendees were treated to a dynamic mix of technical sessions, policy discussions and social events, but with a fun twist. The space greeted them with a 10-foot-tall guitar, and branded conference pins and T-shirts all carried that rock ’n’ roll theme. The Monday night welcome dinner fully embraced the concert vibe as well, complete with a rock-themed photo booth, DJ, Guitar Hero competition station, American flag décor, marquee lighting, and plenty of food and drinks.
Keynote speaker Scott Bloom kicked off the event by bringing a unique blend of comedy, storytelling, and business insight. His engaging, laughter-packed presentation tackled serious topics like communication, teamwork, leadership and customer engagement in a way that resonated with the plumbing professional audience. For a profession where teamwork, communication and resilience are essential, his message was a refreshing reminder that humor and human connection can be powerful tools for success in plumbing.
The Brass Tacks
Getting down to business, the focus was threefold: advancing the 2027 Uniform Codes through the triennial Association Technical Meeting, providing CEU-eligible education to help professionals maintain certifications, and fostering collaboration across disciplines. With ASSE and ARCSA co-locating this year, the initiatives also highlighted the importance of collaboration across different but complementary segments of the water and mechanical industries.
BRIAN GADBERY
Outgoing IAPMO President Steven Panelli, left, passes the gavel to incoming President Jeremy Stettler during the Installation of Officers Dinner on Sept. 18.
“Bringing together IAPMO, ASSE, and ARCSA highlights our shared commitment to safe water, resilient systems, and sustainable practices. Together, we cover everything from rainwater harvesting to personnel certification to plumbing and mechanical codes. That diversity makes the event richer and provides attendees with more resources and expertise,” IAPMO CEO Dave Viola said.
Educational Sessions
Education was at the heart of the conference. Attendees were treated to a wide range of sessions designed to strengthen their technical knowledge and keep them up to date on emerging practices, including in-depth Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC®) and Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC®) workshops that walked participants through key code updates, compliance strategies, and real-world applications.
On the technical side, the conference also featured sessions on IAPMO’s Water Demand Calculator®—a groundbreaking tool that’s reshaping how water supply systems are sized to improve efficiency, reduce material costs, and advance sustainability goals.
BRIAN GADBERY
Members vote on a proposal during the Association Technical Committee Convention on Sept. 16.
A key component of this year’s conference was the Association Technical Meeting, where members have a direct voice in shaping the Uniform Codes. These decisions have lasting impact, influencing how plumbing and mechanical systems are designed, built and inspected for years to come. It’s one of the most important ways IAPMO members ensure the codes remain relevant, science-based and reflective of industry best practices, fulfilling the mission of creating a safer built environment.
Partners in Trust
In addition, the event hosted a robust slate of classes and presentations from ARCSA International®, giving attendees the chance to dive deep into sustainable water practices. These ranged from introductory and advanced rainwater harvesting courses to case studies and cutting-edge technology sessions, and also included foundational classes like Introduction to Rainwater Harvesting Systems and the Rainwater Harvesting Systems Advanced Class, as well as an ARCSA board meeting and an open house networking reception. Themed sessions explored global and indigenous approaches to water management, case studies from Texas to California, and advanced topics like geospatial technologies, microbial monitoring, smart contro