VALVE MAGAZINE Fall 2025

MEET THE CHAIRMAN: ROB VELAN

tive maintenance and offers an opportunity for premium product differentiation. Focused expertise in complex valve types enhances value proposition and pricing power.

The valve industry is more exciting than many might think and offers great career opportunities. It is a sector that is experiencing growth and embracing technological advances in many areas. To be a part of it is an opportunity to help propel this industry forward. Tell us a bit about what you like to do outside of work. I enjoy competing and pushing myself. I played a lot of sports while growing up including soccer, ice hockey and rugby. In my older years, I now focus on tennis and jogging. Exercise is a great escape for me.

How do you see VMA continuing to serve and advance the industry?

VMA recently conducted a survey of our members to gather feedback on how we could best serve them. There were three key areas of focus that came to light and VMA is crafting its strategic plan around: • Building a stronger community by increasing membership and hosting events (in-person and online) to deliver important content and offer networking opportunities. • Educating its members in a

variety of areas including valve basic knowledge, existing/new technical standards, market trends and new legislation. • Promoting our industry to policy makers and influencing govern ment affairs in response to common challenges. What will your focus be as the chairman of the VMA? Over the past five years, my predeces sors, fellow board members, along with our President Heather Rhoderick, have done a great job to solidify the VMA and position it for growth. We are now looking to expand membership across all business partners to include even more suppliers and distributors for a truly connected industry association. We will also strive to align the committee mandates to support the three areas of focus in the new strategic plan. What advice do you have for someone considering joining VMA? For our members? The VMA offers a community of valve-focused members with similar issues and interests. There are so many ways to get involved: join a committee, take advantage of educational opportu nities, participate in events and many more. The more one gets involved, the more one gains from it. So please spread the good word throughout your organizations. What advice would you offer those entering the industry as either a new graduate or someone switching career paths mid-career?

NEWLY RELEASED: ANSI/MSS SP-58-2025, Pipe Hangers and Supports | Materials, Design, Manufacture, Selection, Application, and Installation SP-58-2025 is an essential industry standard for ensuring the safety and reliability of piping systems in various industries, covering everything from load ratings and material specifications to fabrication and installation practices.

Adhering to this standard helps enhance system integrity, reduce risks of leaks or failures, and ensures compliance with industry best practices.

ANSI Approved

The Technical Voice of the Industry ®

msshq.org/page/SP58

msshq.org

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FALL 2025

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