I have been provided the great honor to serve the members of IAPMO as president, a responsibility I accept with pride and deference toward the many great stewards who came before me. As I was looking through the names and photos of our past presidents, three in particular stood out to me, each of them honored with IAPMO’s highest recognition, the George Kauffman Lifetime Achievement Award — Bob West, Gilbert Kissling and Gary Hile.
Bob West was one of the most influential leaders in IAPMO’s history, whose career reflected decades of dedication to the plumbing industry, public health, and professional integrity. A Houston native, Bob spent more than 40 years in the trades, rising from apprentice to respected plumbing inspector and ultimately serving as chief plumbing inspector for the city of Houston, while also contributing at the state level through leadership roles and regulatory service. His impact on IAPMO was most profound during his presidency beginning in 1995, when the association faced serious financial, political, and governance challenges. At a critical moment, Bob provided steady, principled leadership, helping stabilize the organization, restore confidence in its governance, and establish a clear and lasting distinction between board policymaking and staff implementation — a model that continues to guide IAPMO today. Known for his directness, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public health and safety, Bob earned deep respect across the industry and left a foundation that enabled IAPMO’s long-term growth and success.
Gilbert Kissling was a highly respected leader in the plumbing industry whose career combined hands-on trade experience, union leadership, public service, and transformative contributions to IAPMO. Beginning as a UA journeyman plumber, he rose to serve as business agent and later business manager of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union No. 142 in San Antonio before becoming administrator of the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. There he played a key role in strengthening enforcement and advancing landmark reforms such as a statewide plumbing code, continuing education requirements, and mandatory medical gas certification. Within IAPMO, Gilbert served as president from 1999–2000 and was widely recognized for his integrity, energy, and sense of urgency, helping guide the association during a pivotal period while advancing the mission of public health and safety. His service on national code committees, regulatory boards, and labor and professional organizations further reinforced his influence, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and commitment that helped shape both IAPMO and the broader plumbing profession.
Gary Hile has been one of the most influential figures in shaping IAPMO over the past four decades, bringing deep technical knowledge, leadership, and a spirit of service rooted in his lifelong experience in Alaska’s plumbing industry.
A third-generation Alaskan and plumber, Gary advanced from apprenticeship through journeyman and foreman roles before beginning a long career as a plumbing and mechanical inspector for the Municipality of Anchorage. There he spent more than 25 years in code enforcement. His involvement with IAPMO began in the early 1990s and grew into a sustained commitment that included service on numerous technical committees, years of teaching backflow prevention classes, extensive mentorship of members and staff, and 14 years on the Board of Directors, including two terms as president. Through his thoughtful, selfless leadership and unwavering dedication to education, code development, and public health, Gary has played a critical role in strengthening IAPMO’s mission and extending its impact well beyond Alaska.
I met Gary at conference in Minnesota, where he and Linda welcomed me to their table to have a beverage. He introduced me to several other members, making me feel like part of his family — Gary being the crazy uncle who wears a collared shirt with Corvettes all over it. Since that chance meeting, Gary has given me a lot of great advice and taught me how to lead with an open mind as well as open arms. Many of our IAPMO family members have similar stories about someone who invited them to join their table, and I hope we all will continue to do so. It is because of the culture and dedication from people like Gary, Bob and Gilbert that IAPMO has grown stronger than ever at 100 years old.
Last modified: February 19, 2026