New publisher Bob Miodonski introduces himself toPMEreaders--by giving his views on three key industry issues and welcoming your feedback.



Dale Carnegie used to say that a man’s favorite topic of conversation is himself. So, writing a column to introduce myself as the new publisher ofPM Engineershould be easy.

It also runs the risk of getting boring in a hurry. If you missed the short news story in our August issue, you can read about my background at PMengineer.com.

I’d rather use my space here to tell you my views onPM Engineerand where I stand on three industry issues.

Our research tells me that you’re usingPM Engineeras a tool for education and information. We’ll continue to provide you with insights from experts on technical topics as well as the news you need to be informed about what is going on in our industry. We’ll also keep you up to date on the products and services that can help you better do your job of designing systems that protect the public’s health and safety, conserve resources and provide comfort.

We realize that your information needs transcend what you can read in magazines.PM Engineerwill expand our integrated approach of providing news and education through e-newsletters, Web sites, Webinars, and events as well as print.

Any good trade magazine should be a forum where readers can exchange ideas. We encourage discussion and even debate on issues that may be controversial or simply in need of a higher profile. By working together, we can raise the level of our industry. We can make a difference.

I’ve worked on magazines in the plumbing and mechanical industry since 1990. I’ve written hundreds of editorials and columns forSupply House TimesandContractormagazine, where I was the publisher for the last five years before joiningPME.

Here’s where I stand on three issues that may be making an impact on your business:

A unified national plumbing code.I wrote an editorial in 1995 that urged model code bodies to agree on a single national plumbing code. I also supported the move last year to bring the Uniform and International plumbing and mechanical codes together and encouraged all parties to continue to work further toward that goal.

Residential fire sprinklers.Sometimes I wonder why this is an issue at all. While I understand that sprinklers add to the cost of new construction, I believe that these costs are far outweighed by the benefits sprinklers provide in saving lives and property. Recently, I wrote that protecting firefighters was enough justification in itself to make residential fire sprinklers mandatory.

Green construction.I wrote my first “green” editorial for mechanical contractors in 1994 when I suggested that government regulations requiring low-flow toilets and ozone-friendly refrigerants not only help the environment but also are good for business. Earlier this year, I encouraged contractors to find their place in the green building movement to work alongside engineers and architects.

Those are my views, and I’d like to hear yours on these issues and others. Please feel free to contact me or Editor Jim Camillo.

I look forward to working with you.