ASSOCIATIONS 11
Our fifth article in the IOPSA / PIRB Strategy 2025 series
By
Rory Macnamara
Because our work is that of a trade does not mean that plumbing is less important than any profession discipline . Simply put , without the plumber , all the engineer ’ s designs and plans would be for naught . Plumbers , as with all qualified tradespeople , make the design work properly .
Plumbers are equal then to everyone else in the building / construction team and not subservient to other trades and professionals .
Strategy 2025 , ‘ Proud to be Professional ’, will own the narrative of what it means to be a plumber , and to increase the level of professionalism and trust both internally and with consumers .
The voice that already exists in IOPSA ( over 30 years of service to plumbing ), PIRB ( a properly constituted and professional body ) and other formally constituted plumbing bodies are the platforms for all members to have a voice and contribute to maintaining a high standard .
To achieve this high level of professional pride , universally understood standards for plumbers and to create consumer trust , we will create a central point of communication and will create a narrative for the industry , consumers , and new recruits .
This strategy does not imply in any way , manner or means there is a belief that qualified plumbers currently are a bunch of incompetents , far from it , but reinforces why the industry must come together to recognise the qualified plumber and uplift the industry and through this will create greater recognition of the qualified professional plumber .
This being done together , will create the intended marketing strategy , communications , and branding .
Critical to this , the strategy encompasses and does not ignore the informal sector and will educate consumers on what skills are needed for which jobs .
What is a plumber ? It is important to define the industry , the plumber , and the industry bodies . In addition , to define and outline marketing strategies and campaigns .
“ Plumbers are equal then to everyone else in the building / construction team and not subservient to other trades and professions .”
May 2021 Volume 27 I Number 3 www . plumbingafrica . co . za