Codes and standards workshop FAQ
I’m signed up for only one day, can I still attend the networking dinner?
Yes, all attendees may attend the networking dinner on the evening of Tuesday, July 28.
Where will the networking dinner be held?
The networking dinner will be held on Tuesday, July 28 at 6:00 PM at Wildfire in Schaumburg. 1250 East Higgins Road, Schaumburg, IL. Their website is http://www.wildfirerestaurant.com/schaumburg
How is the information provided at the workshop different from that presented at PMI meetings?
The workshop is intended to provide a basic primer on the way codes, standards, and certification work for plumbing products. PMI meetings, on the other hand, assume a basic knowledge of codes and standards, and provide an update on the latest developments in codes and standards important to the plumbing industry. The information provided in the workshop is intended to compliment, not replace the meetings, and help attendees to the PMI meetings put the information provided there to work for their company. The same is also true of the green/sustainability/water efficiency information.
Is this workshop only for engineers and technical staff?
Absolutely not. A firm understanding of the role of codes, standards, and certification can be crucial for a number of the staff in plumbing product manufacturing firms. They include individuals in sales, customer service, compliance, manufacturing, engineering, marketing, and management. This workshop can be very helpful for staff moving into new positions of responsibility, new hires, and even for experienced staff needing a refresher. While some of the information pertains to technical topics, it does not assume any prior knowledge about codes and standards, and is written for both technical and non-technical attendees alike.
The same is also true of the green, sustainability, and water efficiency portion of the workshop. A basic understanding of the principles behind the various green initiatives can be extremely helpful in crafting marketing messages, answering customer questions, seeking to make sales, and designing new products. Again, no prior knowledge of these topics is assumed.
I attended last year’s workshop, how different is it this year?
The basic format is the same, and some of the information is the same. However, much of the information has also been updated and revised to incorporate the latest developments.
What do I need to know before attending?
Prior knowledge of or experience with codes, standards, certification, green building, sustainability, and water efficiency programs is not necessary.
When will I receive the workshop materials?
In keeping with the green theme of the workshop, materials will be provided in electronic form on a USB flash drive upon arrival at the class. Participants may bring laptops to follow along online if they wish.
Can I attend one day instead of both?
Yes. Single-day registrations are available for either Tuesday, July 28 or Wednesday, July 29. The reduced, single-day rate for members is $200 and the rate for non-members is $350. Please let us know which day to expect you. One-day attendees may attend the networking dinner on the evening of Tuesday, July 28, but should notify PMI if they plan to attend.
Can non-members attend?
Yes. Those whose companies are not members of PMI can attend. Registration fees are $400 for both days or $350 for a one-day registration.
Is lodging included in the cost of the class?
No. PMI has, however, arranged a block of rooms at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel at a rate of $109 per night (plus tax). The hotel is located 4 miles from the PMI office, and offers complimentary shuttle service within a five mile radius, including PMI’s office. The hotel is located at 1551 Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg, IL. Reservations can be made by calling Renaissance at 1-800-468-3571 and mentioning the “Plumbing Manufacturers Institute Room Block.”
Can I attend the workshop by teleconference or webinar?
No. This option is not yet offered, although PMI is exploring it for future workshops.
I can’t attend this workshop, when will the next one be offered?
The workshop is offered annually.
How are the dates and topics chosen?
PMI distributes a survey on the workshop each year to gage interest, potential date availability, the location, and topics of interest. The date is chosen based on availability of the majority of interested members. PMI also uses feedback from past workshops in crafting the content.
Who will teach the workshop?
The workshop will be taught by PMI’s Technical Director, Shawn Martin