14
FEATURES
Words from the wise
Compiled by
Tanya Olckers
We spoke to several plumbing industry stalwarts and asked them to give us their words of wisdom for the plumbers of today – delving into thirty or more years of experience. Here is what they had to say:
Image supplied by Johan Landman
Johan Landman from Alpha Plumbing After more than three decades in plumbing, I can tell you this: the tools may change, but the heart of the trade stays the same. It’ s not just about fixing pipes, it’ s about restoring calm to chaos, earning
Johan Landman. trust in the smallest of moments and standing behind your work with pride. At Alpha Plumbing, we’ ve seen every kind of job, from geysers bursting on Christmas morning to stormwater drains flooding entire complexes, and through it all one truth remains: consistency is more valuable than brilliance.
If I had to give one piece of advice to the next generation of plumbers, it’ s this: slow down and do it right the first time. Rushing costs more than it saves. A well-done job doesn’ t just avoid callbacks; it builds a reputation. And reputation is your most powerful marketing tool in this business.
Also, don’ t just focus on pipes and fittings, pay attention to people. The best plumbers I’ ve ever worked with weren’ t just technically skilled, they had emotional intelligence. They knew how to explain, how to listen and how to reassure. A customer who feels heard will remember you long after the invoice is paid.
Lastly, stay curious. Learn from your seniors, yes, but also from your apprentices. New tools, sustainable solutions, better ways of working; the industry is always evolving, and the best professionals evolve with it. At Alpha Plumbing, we’ ve built a culture where apprenticeships aren’ t just training grounds; they’ re
where we invest in the future of the trade. At the end of the day, plumbing isn’ t just a job, it’ s a service. And good service? That’ s timeless.
Duncan Keil from UPP Group Rainwater harvesting isn’ t just eco-friendly; it’ s a smart way to futureproof your plumbing business. With water costs rising and sustainability now a selling point, installing rainwater systems gives you an edge
Duncan Keil. and adds value for your clients. Learn the regulations, upsell the benefits, and become the go-to for efficient water solutions. For tools, info and products, check out rainharvesting. com. au.
Arthur Claassen from AJC Plumbing Keep bringing your thoughts back to the present moment, continually ask yourself, what value does this add and how is this getting me closer to my goals?
Arthur Claassen.
Image by © Plumbing Africa Image supplied by Arthur Claassen www. plumbingafrica. co. za @ plumbingonline @ plumbingonline @ PlumbingAfricaOnline September 2025 Volume 31 I Number 07