Beyer Plumbing has proudly served San Antonio and the surrounding communities for generations, but our commitment to the plumbing industry extends far beyond the work we perform for our customers. We believe the future of the trade depends on strong leadership, quality education and meaningful opportunities for the next generation of skilled professionals.
That commitment was on display at the 2026 PHCC Texas R.E.A.C.H. Conference, held August 5 through 7 at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort in San Antonio. From industry leadership and apprentice education to statewide competition and scholarship support, the conference highlighted several ways Beyer Plumbing continues to invest in the future of the plumbing profession.
Leading and Supporting the Plumbing Industry
James Beyer currently serves as the 2026 President of PHCC Texas and Secretary of PHCC San Antonio. He also serves on the Apprentice Contest Committee, where he helps manage the planning and logistics required to bring the statewide competition together.
Through these leadership roles, James and the Beyer Plumbing team work alongside other plumbing professionals, educators and industry partners to support training, professional development and the continued growth of the skilled trades throughout Texas.
Beyer Plumbing also participated in the Rick Shelton Scholarship Golf Tournament held in conjunction with the conference. The company sponsored a hole, entered a team in the tournament and finished in fourth place. The tournament helps support scholarship opportunities and continued education within the plumbing industry.
From Davenport High School to State Champion
One of the biggest moments of the conference came when Beyer Plumbing apprentice Ayeden Edwards won the PHCC Texas Apprentice Contest.
Ayeden joined Beyer Plumbing directly after graduating from Davenport High School and has continued developing his skills through hands-on training and apprenticeship education. He is now applying for his Journeyman License, marking another major step forward in his plumbing career.
Ayeden competed against six apprentices from across Texas to earn the title of state champion. With the win, he will represent Texas at the national PHCC conference in Milwaukee October 2026.
His accomplishment demonstrates what can happen when young people are introduced to the skilled trades and given the education, mentorship and practical experience needed to succeed.
Putting Plumbing Skills to the Test
The PHCC Texas Apprentice Contest was designed to evaluate both technical knowledge and hands-on plumbing ability.
Competitors first completed a written examination covering plumbing codes, rules, techniques and materials. They were then tasked with constructing the plumbing system for a bathroom, including:
- Underground sanitary rough-in
- Venting
- Water lines
- Toilet installation
- Lavatory installation
- Wall-hung sink installation
The competition required accuracy, efficiency, problem-solving and a thorough understanding of plumbing systems. Ayeden’s performance across both portions of the contest earned him the opportunity to represent Texas on the national stage.
Creating Careers Through the Skilled Trades
Ayeden’s achievement was not the only apprentice milestone celebrated during the conference.
Two additional Beyer Plumbing apprentices,Chris Fuentes and Richard Cansino, received their program diplomas and U.S. Department of Labor certifications. Their accomplishments reflect the time, effort and dedication required to complete an apprenticeship program while gaining real-world experience in the field.
Apprenticeship programs provide a direct pathway into a stable, essential and highly skilled profession. Participants receive classroom instruction, hands-on training and mentorship from experienced plumbing professionals as they work toward licensing and long-term career advancement.
For students who may not see a traditional four-year college path as the right fit, the plumbing trade offers the opportunity to begin building valuable skills and earning income while training for a lasting career.
Investing in the Future of Plumbing
Beyer Plumbing’s involvement with PHCC reflects the company’s larger commitment to professional excellence and the continued advancement of the plumbing industry.
By supporting apprenticeship education, participating in industry organizations and helping young professionals develop their skills, Beyer Plumbing is working to ensure that the next generation is prepared to serve homes and businesses throughout San Antonio and South Texas.
We are proud of Ayeden, our graduating apprentices and every member of the Beyer Plumbing team who continues to learn, lead and uphold the standards of the plumbing profession.
Want to Build a Career in Plumbing?
Interested in starting a career in the plumbing trade? Learn more about the Beyer Plumbing Trade Program and how to begin your path toward apprenticeship, licensing and a career in plumbing.
