FALLS CHURCH, Virginia — The PHCC Educational Foundation has appointed new leaders to oversee its national workforce development, apprenticeship, and trade education programs.

John Zink has been named executive director, while Nicole Urizzo will serve as director of academy services. Steve Rivers, owner of Rivers Plumbing and Air in California, has also begun a two-year term as foundation chairman.

The appointments follow a planned leadership succession after the retirement of PHCC CEO Cindy Sheridan. Former Foundation Executive Director Dan Quinonez has moved into the PHCC—National CEO position.

Zink brings 29 years of experience with PHCC and the Educational Foundation. During his tenure, he managed communications, fundraising, scholarship funds, construction management education and training partnerships across the organization's national chapter network.

Urizzo will continue serving as Executive Director of PHCC of New Jersey and the NJPHCC Online Apprenticeship Academy. Her new national role connects chapter-level training needs with PHCC Academy resources.

Rivers previously served as president of the PHCC—National Association. He succeeds outgoing Foundation Chairman Patrick Wallner.

The leadership changes come as the skilled trades attract more adult career-changers. According to the Foundation, the average age of participants in its online apprenticeship and technician training programs is now 26.

More than 30% of scholarship applicants are age 25 or older. Many are transitioning from entry-level or service-sector positions into skilled trades careers.

The Foundation also reports that a significant portion of applicants want to use their trade education to eventually start businesses and contribute to the plumbing, heating and cooling industry.

Under the new leadership team, the Foundation plans to expand awareness and access to PHCC Academy's online curriculum. It also aims to strengthen workforce partnerships and promote comprehensive trade education.

Zink said the Foundation will build on its existing network of contractor volunteers, chapter executives, donors and industry partners. The goal is to expand the reach of its educational resources across the plumbing and HVAC sectors.

Urizzo emphasized the importance of technical training that prepares well-rounded professionals for long-term careers. She also said connecting chapter-level perspectives with national Academy programs will help align training with contractors' operational needs.

The Foundation plans to connect emerging funding sources, corporate partners and prospective tradespeople with local PHCC chapters and contractor employers.

Its workforce development efforts will include online technical courses, local chapter partnerships and national workforce alliances. The organization also plans to promote the range of career opportunities available throughout the plumbing, heating and cooling industries.

For more information about the PHCC Educational Foundation, scholarship opportunities and technical training programs, visit www.phccfoundation.org.