June 20th, 2025
by Gary Gauthier

The International Code Council’s Plumbing Mechanical and Fuel Gas Membership Council (PMGMC) has launched an ambitious nationwide outreach effort to raise awareness about the vital role plumbing, mechanical and fuel gas (PMG) codes play in safeguarding public health and supporting industry professionals.

The Four Corners Initiative, aptly named to reflect its coast-to-coast outreach, seeks to connect with industry stakeholders at all levels by highlighting the PMGMC’s mission and the resources available through the Code Council.

Spearheaded by the PMGMC and supported by the Code Council’s PMG Technical Resources Team, the Four Corners Initiative delivers live and virtual training events focused on the International Plumbing Code® (IPC), International Mechanical Code® (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code® (IFGC), International Swimming Pool and Spa Code® (ISPSC) and the International Private Sewage Disposal Code® (IPSDC). These sessions are designed not only to provide technical knowledge, but also to foster meaningful relationships within the PMG community.

Impactful Engagements

Over the past several months, the Four Corners Initiative has made significant strides across diverse regions of the U.S.:

Ocean City, Maryland — April 5, 2025

Presenters Gary Gauthier, Lisa Reiheld and former PMGMC Vice Chair Bill Funk led a dynamic in-person presentation for 46 local chapter members. The chapter decided to sponsor two first-time attendees to the Code Council Emerging Leaders Academy in Orlando, demonstrating the initiative’s direct impact on leadership development and professional growth.

Tulsa, Oklahoma — April 22, 2025

This foundational session, presented by Gary Gauthier, Jim Cika and Christina Selby, PMGMC Member, attracted 54 attendees and addressed a critical awareness gap about the building safety solutions offered by the Code Council. This event marked a turning point in outreach efforts, establishing new connections and introducing the value proposition of Code Council engagement in the region.

Miami, Florida — April 28, 2025

At UA Local 519, Gary Gauthier introduced apprentices to PMG resources and the benefits of Code Council membership. By engaging future professionals early in their careers, this session laid the groundwork for long-term involvement and awareness in code development and implementation. 

Orlando, Florida — April 29, 2025 (Virtual)

Gary Gauthier delivered a virtual presentation to 38 students from Gold Coast Construction Schools, offering a comprehensive introduction to the Code Council’s PMG culture and available resources/services. The session also emphasized the potential career opportunities available through engagement in code and standard professions.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Regional and National Ties

The Four Corners Initiative is set to continue its impactful momentum through several upcoming events:

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — July 24, 2025

Presenters Gary Gauthier and Christina Selby will reconnect with the local PMG chapter, reinforcing relationships and welcoming new attendees to the Code Council community.

St. Petersburg, Florida — July 30, 2025

At the Plumbing Hacks Convention, Gauthier and PMGMC Member Bob Carpenter will present the Four Corners Initiative to a wide audience of contractors. 

Cleveland, Ohio — October 20, 2025

The Four Corners Commemorative Event will be a focal point of the Code Council’s 2025 Annual Conference activities. This two-part celebration of the Code Council and UA partnership includes: 

  • An afternoon session with UA Joint Apprenticeship Training Committees (JATCs) and delegates, featuring presentations by PMG leaders including Gary Gauthier, Lisa Reiheld, PMGMC Chair Ken Gregory, Vice Chair James Richardson, Membership expert Karla Higgs and digital codes specialist Phil Graczyk. 
  • An evening event hosted at UA Local 55 Hall with live technical demonstrations, a catered Italian buffet and a chance for pre-registered guests to witness UA’s robust training environments firsthand.

A Legacy of Collaboration and Professional Growth

At its core, the Four Corners Initiative seeks to inspire a deeper understanding of the PMGMC’s responsibilities while encouraging participation in shaping the future of codes. Each event creates opportunities for professionals to expand their technical expertise, connect with national PMG experts and become active contributors to the PMGMC’s ongoing mission.

Through this initiative, the Code Council continues to empower local chapters, elevate industry awareness and build a pipeline of engaged professionals committed to ensuring safe and sustainable PMG systems throughout the United States. 

For more information about the PMGMC or upcoming Four Corners events, click here.

To stay updated on the latest PMG industry news, subscribe to the Code Council’s PMG newsletter here.

About the Author
Gary Gauthier
Gary has over 40 years of experience working within the Construction and Plumbing Industry. He is a seasoned Construction Project Manager as well as a Licensed Master Plumber in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont. In addition, Gary holds an Unrestricted Construction Supervisor’s License (CSL) within the state of Massachusetts and completely understands the significance of code correlation. Lastly, while working with the International Code Council, he is currently an Adult Educational Master Plumbing & Fuel Gas Instructor and Continuing Education Instructor in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Member of the International Code Council PMG Team responsible for developing, coordinating, directing and implementing programs to ensure the successful completion of the Government Relations goals and objectives as they apply to the International Plumbing Code, International Mechanical Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, and the International Private Sewage Disposal Code (and related services and programs of the International Code Council).