There is always so much to look forward to at an IAPMO annual conference, from reuniting with old friends to advancing the development of the Uniform Codes — it’s truly our industry’s premier event each year. But today I want to recognize the phenomenal work IAPMO’s Education and Training department performs year in and year out to deliver indispensable code updates, informative sessions on industry trends, and continuing education classes that highlight the unrivaled expertise of IAPMO’s subject-matter experts.
Tony Marcello and his team continue to raise the bar each year to ensure attendees return to their jurisdictions better informed and prepared for the challenges our industry will face in the year ahead. This year will no doubt provide more of the same.
I encourage you to examine the education schedule prior to the conference and plan your days in advance in order to maximize your time while in Las Vegas. With that in mind, here are a couple of sessions I believe will greatly benefit attendees from all corners of our industry.
Monday, Sept. 23, 1:45-3:15 p.m.
Why Cross-Connection Programs Remain a Critical Part of Protecting Public Health | Presented by Sean Cleary
We launch right into things with this session, one of two tracks that open our educational offerings on the conference’s first day. IAPMO Backflow Prevention Institute Vice President of Operations Sean Cleary will explore the importance and rationale behind cross-connection programs, covering the fundamental procedures for establishing and sustaining a robust program and demonstrating the significance of routine surveys and valve testing.
I believe this will be extremely useful to attendees given the sweeping importance of cross-connection programs both here in America and abroad.
Wednesday, Sept. 25, 8:30-10 a.m.
The Transition from A1 to A2L Refrigerants | Presented by Jesse Kealy
Reflecting a significant development in the Uniform Codes, Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union No. 441 HVAC Instructor Jesse Kealy will offer valuable insights into the changing refrigerant landscape and its effects on industry practices and regulations.
This transition has been hotly debated during IAPMO’s code development meetings for years and the knowledge gained from attending this informative session will no doubt prove invaluable to folks out in the field.
The entire schedule of events, from education to meetings and dinners, can be viewed at the following URL: https://conference.iapmo.org/ 2024/iapmo/schedule
One more thing: If you’ll recall, in my first quarter message I wrote about the Conference Planning and Special Projects Committee (CPSPC) and all the good work it does on behalf of IAPMO. This year’s conference is, of course, no exception as the committee has not only planned what is sure to be the fashion highlight of the year — the Studio 54-themed Welcome Dinner on Monday night — but it has also scheduled a comprehensive itinerary of activities and speakers to entertain conference companions who may not be as interested in cross-connection systems as their partners. If your significant other is considering joining you for the week, please show them the schedule to find out what the CPSPC has in store!
I look forward to seeing you all in Las Vegas. Safe travels!
Steven Panelli
IAPMO President Steven Panelli is chief plumbing inspector for the city and county of San Francisco. As chief plumbing inspector of a large metropolitan city, Panelli has been directly involved in the conception and framework for water conservation, storm water management, and other environmental legislation and city polices.
Born and raised in San Francisco, Panelli attended Sacred Heart High School and graduated in 1989. Two days after graduation, he was given the opportunity to work for a family friend at Heiro Plumbing. He then applied to Local 38 and completed the apprenticeship program. Shortly after becoming a journeyman, he again had the privilege to work for one of the most respected companies in San Francisco, Servadei Plumbing.
Panelli was hired in 2000 as a plumbing inspector for the city and county of San Francisco and was subsequently promoted to senior inspector in 2005 and chief plumbing inspector in 2009.
“Without the support and professionalism of my inspectors and seniors, I would not be able to be the chief I am today,” he says. “They have always had my back no matter what and I appreciate all the hard work they perform every day.”
Panelli is an apprentice instructor for the JATC of Local 38.
A contributing member of IAPMO for many years, Panelli is always willing to volunteer his time to his IAPMO chapter and has been an alternate for the plumbing and mechanical technical committees. Panelli has represented San Francisco Local 38 and the Western Pipe Trades at IAPMO’s annual conferences, as well.
“I feel very fortunate to be a part of this organization and look forward to supporting my fellow Board of Directors members, IAPMO staff, and, of course, our association members in my new role as president,” Panelli says.
Besides his dedication to the plumbing industry, Panelli enjoys playing golf, bowling, pool, bocce and sometimes a friendly game of snooker. He would never have made it to where he is without the love, support and patience of his loving wife of 29 years, Lorena. His children, Steven and Daniela, have always been two of the most important people in his life, as well. Daniela graduated from San Jose State and is pursuing a career in communications. Steven met the love of his life, Megan, and they were married this past year. Panelli is overjoyed to have a new addition to the family.
Last modified: August 30, 2024