The leading organizations representing HVACR and plumbing contractors in the United States are taking their long-standing relationship to the next level.
The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) and the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) have launched a new strategic collaboration designed to strengthen the contracting industry and deliver greater value to their members.
As the two most established trade associations serving plumbing, heating, and cooling contractors, PHCC and ACCA have worked alongside one another for years. This expanded collaboration builds on that history and focuses on one shared goal: helping contractors grow stronger, more profitable businesses.
A shared mission, stronger together
At its core, this collaboration is about impact.
“ACCA’s job is simple—we work every day to make contractors’ lives better,” said Barton James, president and CEO of ACCA. “Collaborating with PHCC just makes sense. When two strong associations align, we amplify our voice, expand our reach, and deliver more practical value to the people in the field. This collaboration means more resources, stronger advocacy, and fewer headaches for our members. And that’s what it’s all about—helping contractors succeed, lead, and build better businesses.”
PHCC CEO Cindy Sheridan echoed that commitment to long-term growth for the industry.
“This strategic collaboration with ACCA will support growth for the plumbing and HVACR industry,” Sheridan said. “Because we share a similar mission and strategic goals, it makes sense to work more closely together and use our resources more strategically and effectively, while preserving our independent identities and strengths.”
Both organizations remain independent. But by working more strategically together, they can expand opportunities for contractors across both sectors.
What the collaboration includes
A Steering Committee made up of volunteer leaders from both organizations is evaluating opportunities across several key areas, including:
- Events
- Education
- Workforce development
- Legislative partnerships
In the near term, PHCC and ACCA are focused on maximizing impact in two critical areas: events and advocacy.
Expanded event access
Members of each organization will receive special registration discounts for the other’s major events.
- PHCC members can receive a special discount to attend the ACCA 2026 conference, March 15–18.
- ACCA members are eligible for a reduced rate to attend the PHCC Legislative Conference, May 5–6 – see email for details.
These expanded access opportunities give contractors more ways to connect, learn, and strengthen their businesses.
Stronger advocacy in Washington
Advocacy is also front and center.
ACCA’s advocacy leaders will take an active role in joining and participating in the PHCC legislative fly-in in 2026 and 2027. By aligning efforts on Capitol Hill, the organizations can present a stronger, more unified voice on the issues that impact contractors most.
For contractors, that means clearer representation, coordinated messaging, and stronger influence on policies that affect day-to-day operations.
Positioning contractors for long-term success
This strategic collaboration reflects a shared belief: contractors face complex challenges, and they deserve strong, coordinated support.
By aligning resources and working together in targeted ways, ACCA and PHCC are positioning plumbing and HVACR contractors for long-term growth, stronger advocacy, and greater professional excellence.
For ACCA members, that means more opportunities, more connections, and more practical value—without losing sight of what matters most: helping contractors succeed.
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