Though the pipe and fittings market is still projected to grow steadily through 2032 and the global valve market continues to show solid expansion—the PVF sector is experiencing a notable “cool down.” Project starts are down significantly, leaving many of us looking ahead to 2026 for spending to be approved and for major work to move forward again. While demand remains, the overall business climate has become more cautious: tighter margins, delayed projects, and hesitancy around new large-scale industrial builds – which will persist until broader macroeconomic and policy conditions stabilize.
Throughout this year, Roundtable members have had to keep a close eye on input costs—steel, raw materials, and tariffs—while continuously monitoring inventory levels, local demand, and supply chain pricing to navigate a slower project environment. PVF Roundtable membership itself has continued to grow at a steady pace; however, we have seen a dip in sponsorships due to the conservative spending environment. After Q3 scholarship funds were dispersed, the Roundtable reached a cumulative total of $2.6 million donated since the charitable organization began, with plans firmly in place to surpass the $3 million milestone in 2026.
The new year also brings new leadership. Beginning in Q1, Jamie Meade of Hawk Valve will assume the role of PVF Roundtable President. You can read more about outgoing President Sara Alford’s
Jamie’s leadership on page 16 in PVF Roundtable: Growing the Future of the Industry.
accomplishments and the transition to Jamie’s leadership on page 11 in PVF Roundtable: Growing the Future of the Industry.
In this issue, you’ll find some very informative and educational reads, such as GEMBA by Joan Adams — the Japanese practice where leaders go to the "actual place" where work is done to observe, learn, and identify opportunities for improvement, which helps eliminate administrative errors. — page 36
Take a deep dive into Seals, Seats, and Packing: The Unseen Heart of Every Valve by Courtney Rau — page 42
Have you lost any freight lately? Learn how to prevent this from happening in Double Brokering: The Freight Problem Hurting the Gulf Coast PVF Industry by Joe Walker — page 76
The PVF RT Charitable Foundation is built on its volunteers, sponsors, and an unwavering commitment to the next generation. As we enter a transitional period for our organization, the PVF Roundtable continues bringing members together through networking, supporting our sponsoring member companies by giving their brands strong visibility, and raising scholarship donations for students in the pipe, valve, and fittings fields of study. With new leadership and renewed focus, 2026 will be a record-breaking year for the Roundtable.