Built on excellence

The United Association

The United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA) represents approximately 392,000 plumbers, pipefitters, sprinkler fitters, HVACR service technicians, welders, and related trades in North America.

With a proud history dating back to 1889, the UA has set the standard for excellence in the piping industry for more than 135 years. Our members are the backbone of critical infrastructure work, helping to build, maintain, and protect the systems that keep communities safe, healthy, and thriving.

The United Association is committed to quality, professionalism, and integrity

Standard for Excellence

The UA’s Standard for Excellence is a comprehensive commitment to quality, professionalism, and integrity that guides every member and signatory contractor within the United Association.

This standard ensures that UA members consistently deliver the highest level of craftsmanship, safety, and reliability across all projects.

A commitment to uphold the highest levels of workplace safety

Standard for Safety

The UA’s Standard for Safety is a foundational commitment that ensures every member and signatory contractor upholds the highest levels of workplace safety across all projects. The UA empowers its members through rigorous training, strict adherence to industry codes, and a culture of accountability. This enables them to identify and mitigate hazards, protect themselves and their teams, and deliver work that meets or exceeds all regulatory requirements.

Our core principle is to complete projects efficiently, on schedule, and to the highest industry standards.

Standard for Productivity

The UA’s Standard for Productivity is a core principle that drives every member and signatory contractor to complete projects efficiently, on schedule, and to the highest industry standards. By emphasizing comprehensive training, clear communication, and the use of advanced technologies, the UA ensures that its workforce consistently meets or exceeds client expectations for quality and timeliness.

UA General President Mark McManus | United Association
Protecting the interests of UA members across North America

Leadership Team

Led by General President Mark McManus, the UA’s leadership team is composed of experienced professionals who are dedicated to advancing the interests of UA members across North America.

This includes the daily business of the United Association, securing the financial, political, and organizational health of our union.

Together, they provide strategic direction and uphold the UA’s commitment to training, safety, and excellence in the piping trades.

Delve Deeper into the UA

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Programs

The UA offers a range of impactful programs that target union members and the general public. These initiatives further strengthen the UA’s commitment to excellence and service.

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Pipe Up! Podcast

The UA’s Pipe Up Podcast features conversations between General President Mark McManus and a range of guests, including industry leaders, members, and subject matter experts. Each episode highlights important topics relevant to the piping trades, and the union community. Discussions cover areas such as training, innovation, workforce development, and the impact of UA members across North America.

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Partners

The UA maintains strong international affiliations and partnerships with leading industry organizations, manufacturers, and contractors to ensure its members have access to the latest technologies, training, and best practices. These collaborations help advance industry standards, advocacy, and innovation across North America and the world.