Supply House Times Next Gen ALL-STARS

2024 Next Gen All-Star: Drew O’Neill

Top 20 Under 40 PHCP-PVF Professional

By Nicole Krawcke, Natalie Forster, Editorial Director

How long have you been in the PHCP-PVF industry?

10 years.

What drew you into the industry?

My father worked for a plumbing company for most of my life. After college I got a job working with him in the warehouse thinking it was just going to be a summer job. I learned a lot and realized that the plumbing industry was a place I wanted to plant my roots.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?

I have had many different roles during my 10 years in the plumbing industry and I always find it rewarding when I can come through for customers and help meet their needs. I enjoy helping people find solutions to problems and providing knowledge that can allow customers to make informed decisions about product.

What motivates you every day?

My family. Every day I feel motivated to be the best version of myself and put forth my best effort.

What is one thing you wish more people knew/understood about the PHCP-PVF industry?

I came into the industry with very little knowledge about the field. It was intimidating at first and throughout my career I have had many different roles. I would like people to know that the industry can be rewarding in many different ways. With an industry so big everyone’s role is vital to the growth of the company and industry. Many people think of the plumping industry as just selling pipes, but it is so much more. Anyone can get into the industry if they are willing to learn.

What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?

I started in this field as a summer employee working in a warehouse. Throughout my career I have moved and grown into many different roles. Once I realized I wanted to stay in the industry I worked hard to “move up” in the field and expand my knowledge and expertise. As proud as I am of myself thus far I still have big dreams and aspirations for what I want my future to hold in the plumbing industry.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

My wife and I lived in Europe for a brief period after college. Our main apartment was in Madrid, and we travelled around to explore 20 plus countries.

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Nicole Krawcke is the former Chief Editor of Plumbing & Mechanical. She joined BNP Media in 2014 and served as Web Editor and Business Management Editor of The ACHR NEWS. Prior to joining BNP, she worked at Patch.com, a hyper-local news platform focused on community journalism. She has 10 plus years of writing and editing experience and holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Michigan State University.

Natalie Forster is the director of communications for the American Supply Association (ASA), where she leads the association's public and media relations strategy, social media efforts, and member-focused online and print communications. Prior to joining ASA, she was the Editorial Director of Plumbing & Mechanical and Supply House Times. Before that, she served as an editor and digital content director for Southern Trade Publications, a publishing company focused on the PHCP trades and real estate industries. Natalie holds a bachelor's degree in communication studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.