The Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) is expanding efforts to support newer professionals in the plastics piping industry through its Emerging Professionals Group, an initiative focused on technical education, networking and knowledge transfer.

The group was developed by younger PPI members who began discussing ways to help professionals new to the industry navigate its complex network of materials, standards, codes and regulations. Following its formal launch in 2025, participation grew to more than 100 emerging professionals at the association's 2026 Annual Meeting, according to PPI.

The program includes educational sessions covering the organizations and standards that influence plastic piping applications. A presentation at the 2026 meeting examined the role of standards development organizations, code developers, certifiers and industry associations in the plastics pipe sector.

Annual member surveys have identified networking, technical expertise, career development and leadership development as key priorities for participants. PPI said it is using those results to guide future events and resources.

The initiative comes as the plastics pipe industry faces a broader challenge involving workforce demographics and the retirement of experienced engineers, scientists and other professionals. PPI President David M. Fink said knowledge transfer is becoming increasingly important as companies bring new workers into the industry.

PPI represents nearly 200 companies across five divisions, including its Municipal & Industrial Division, which covers plastic piping systems used in water and wastewater applications. The Emerging Professionals Group is intended to help newer industry professionals build technical knowledge and professional connections as they enter the sector.