The industry’s other major trade group, the Mechanical
Contractors Association of America, dates back to 1889, when it was born as the
National Association of Master Steam and Hot Water Fitters. Likewise, the
“master fitter” identity was confused with “steamfitter,” the term applied to
the journeymen who worked in the field.
As part of the trade extension
merchandising movement, TEB searched for terms that would connote the fact that
these firms sold plumbing and heating materials. In 1922, it formed a committee
from all branches of the industry, which agreed upon the following trade
designations.