High-Profile had the opportunity to interview Dan Bent, the new president of Greater Boston Plumbing Contractors Association (GBPCA), about the new position he has undertaken.
- Dan Bent, GBPCA president
HP: Why did you decide to take on the job of president for the GBPCA?
DB: I took the job because I always had a passion for the industry. That passion means to get involved with new ideas as technology changes the business model.
The other side of it: I have worked for only two companies over the past 35 years — Fallon and Williams Co., where both Fran Williams and Steve Fallon were past presidents, and American Plumbing & Heating for the past 28 years, where Joe Clancy is a past president as well. Back in early 2000 I was asked to get involved and be part of the of the executive board and eventually president, but with three young boys it was just not the right time and I would not have been able to do the job with the time commitment required. But now, it is truly an honor to become president and represent our industry.
HP: What are the main goals you wish to achieve?
DB: It is important that we maintain the traditions and reputation of our industry. This an organization that has been around since 1883 and was incorporated in 1917, so there is a lot of history that has to be carried on.
I also want to make sure we continue to be a vital organization and help increase our market share. In order to grow our market share, I look forward to working closely with the Plumbers Local No. 12 business manager and agents.
HP: Will you be assisting Jeremy Ryan during his transition as the new executive director?
DB: Yes, I look forward to working closely with Jeremy.
We had quite a few applications for the job with many highly qualified individuals, but Jeremy stood out above the rest and will be a major asset to our industry.
We are fortunate to have had a smooth transition period with Hugh Kelleher mentoring his successor. Hugh has done an incredible job for our organization and will certainly be missed. (He is retired but still available for all phone calls.)
HP: Who is the GBPCA Scholarship designed to help?
DB: The scholarship, which I have been involved with for the past eight years, is for children of Plumbers Local No. 12 members and children of companies that belong to the GBPCA .We have been very successful in giving out an average of $30,000 per year, with this past year being $35,000.
HP: What are some of the key events coming up at the GBPCA?
DB: Our next key event is our annual holiday get together, but our biggest event is our annual golf tournament, which supports the scholarship fund. We also meet monthly as contractors to discuss any industry issues.
HP: If you were to be rated on your first 100 days in office, what are your accomplishments?
DB: 1) Helped hire new executive director Jeremy Ryan; 2) successfully negotiated a new deal with Plumbers Local No. 12. Special thanks to the commitment and time of GBPCA committee members who were instrumental in getting this deal done.
Also need to thank Plumbers Local No. 12 business manager Harry Brett, along with all the business agents as well as their committee members for their efforts and continued support to work hand in hand with the contractors of our association.
