FALLS CHURCH, Va. (Oct. 22, 2026) – Recognized for his resilience, commitment to learning, and dedication to the plumbing profession, Daniel Boyles has been named the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC) 2026 Plumbing Apprentice of the Year. The award, sponsored by Delta Faucet, was presented recently during PHCC CONNECT 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Boyles, of Norfolk, Virginia, completed his four-year plumbing apprenticeship through Norfolk Technical Center while working full time in the trade. He entered the industry with no plumbing experience after suffering a serious hand injury that required multiple surgeries and left him searching for a new career path.

When his sister told him about a warehouse opening at Premier Plumbing, Boyles applied despite having no knowledge of the trade. During his interview, he acknowledged his lack of experience but emphasized his determination to learn and work hard. He soon proved that commitment on the job.

Boyles quickly became a dependable member of the warehouse team, managing inventory, ordering materials, coordinating returns, and ensuring plumbers had the parts and supplies they needed. As he learned more about the trade, his responsibilities expanded into field work, and Boyles began building his skills alongside experienced plumbers.

His commitment to learning led him to enroll in the PHCC of Virginia apprenticeship program, where he successfully completed four years of rigorous instruction covering subjects such as jobsite safety, plumbing systems, and the International Plumbing Code. Through this process, Daniel gained a comprehensive understanding of plumbing principles, code requirements, and the critical role plumbing plays in protecting public health and safety.

Boyles also applied what he learned in the classroom to his work in the field. He sought guidance from experienced plumbers, studied technical materials and product information, and used every service call and field assignment as an opportunity to expand his knowledge. His efforts earned him second place in PHCC of Virginia’s 2026 Plumbing Apprentice Competition and the 2026 PHCC of Virginia Plumbing Apprentice of the Year award.

Beyond his technical development, Boyles has developed a deep appreciation for the role plumbers play in protecting public health and serving their communities. He credits the mentors and co-workers who have supported him throughout his apprenticeship, particularly journeyman Aaron, whose technical knowledge, work ethic, and guidance have had a lasting influence on him.

“Dan is a remarkable individual whose resilience and passion to learn is commendable,” says Tony Bertolino, plumbing instructor at Norfolk Technical Center and Boyles’ apprenticeship instructor. “He openly discusses a catastrophic injury that might have sidetracked others but led him to step outside his comfort zone and explore career alternatives.”

Bertolino adds, “Daniel exemplifies everything the Plumbing Apprentice of the Year award is intended to recognize: technical skill, dedication to learning, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence in the trade. He consistently demonstrates initiative, embraces challenges as opportunities to grow, and applies classroom instruction to real-world situations with confidence and precision.”

###

About PHCC
The PHCC—National Association, formed in 1883, provides legislative advocacy, education, and training to approximately 3,500 plumbing and HVACR businesses and 65,000 technicians. Members of PHCC have access to a wide variety of services designed to increase their professionalism, grow their business, and improve profitability. For more information about PHCC, visit phccweb.org.

About Delta Faucet
Delta Faucet exists to create purposeful, practical plumbing fixtures that solve every-day needs. Through human-centric design, Delta Faucet offers thoughtful products that perfectly fit any home and any style. From handy pull-down bathroom faucets that rinse away toothpaste to In2ition® Two-in-One Showerheads that seamlessly blend productivity and relaxation, Delta Faucet is committed to transforming people’s daily lives with water. For more information about Delta Faucet, visit DeltaFaucet.com.