Days like “World Plumbing Day” might not seem to do much in the long run against the stigma that continues to surround the skilled trades. But they are key in highlighting the importance that plumbers play in our everyday lives.

This past March 11th was a big day for the industry. It was the 2021 World Plumbing Day, and it was also the one-year anniversary of when the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared the COVID-19 virus a pandemic.

By celebrating the (many) successes within the plumbing industry and highlighting innovative projects, this helps add depth to the industry. Plumbers don’t just unclog pipes. They are instrumental in the functionality of our buildings.

Back in April 2020, we received a letter from one of our readers that spoke to the stigma that surrounds the trades. For that specific issue, we chose to run a photograph of long-time reader and contractor, Robert Szachury. In the photo, he was posing with both thumbs up and covered in what I’d guess was a lot of feces. Their issue with the photo was that it played right into the hands of the stereotypes associated with being a plumber.

Although the front cover anecdote does bring up an interesting discussion on how best to portray the trades, it showcases the fact that the plumbing industry just hasn’t quite shaken its prejudice.

It is with days like “World Plumbing Day” that allow us to highlight the strides being made as an industry. It is a day of stories, and with those stories, people are able to celebrate their work.

Even the President of the United States, Joe Biden, wrote to the World Plumbing Council to acknowledge the importance it plays in water quality. After all, plumbers are essential. Now if only, we could have every day dedicated to celebrating the trades.