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J.R. Hopson

, Strategic Mechanical Solutions
BIO

J.R. has well over 20 years in the commercial construction industry spanning the GC world as Project Manager to being a Senior MEP manager focused primarily on plumbing and Mechanical. Growing up in the industry he observed and fo

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Insightful Discussions
Oct 1, 2026

Project Management in the Trades: The Difference Between Doing the Work and Delivering the Project

In the skilled trades, we take pride in knowing how to do the work. We know how to install it,  build it, repair it, fabricate it, troubleshoot it, and make it work when the unexpected happens. But there is an important distinction between perfo

Insightful Discussions
Apr 1, 2026

Why Skilled Trades Matter: Addressing the Decline and Urgent Need in Plumbing and HVAC

Amidst the technological revolution and evolving workforce, skilled trades remain a lynchpin of society. The roles of plumbers and HVAC technicians are critical—not only for daily comfort and safety, but for broader economic stability. However,

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Jan 29, 2026

Proactive Plumbing: The Value of Preventative Maintenance in Commercial Facilities

Introduction: The Role of Preventative Maintenance in Commercial Plumbing Preventative maintenance is a cornerstone of responsible facility management, especially when it comes to commercial plumbing systems. Rather than waiting for costly emerg

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Publisher's note: Happy Halloween!

Yes, those are decorations currently in my home. Yes, I may have spent more money than average for two oversized mums that are taking up way too much space on my porch, and yes, I may have stood my ground in a Lowe’s hardware store arguing with my hu