New children’s book celebrates women plumbers

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) is celebrating the work of women plumbers with the new children’s coloring book “My Mom Is a Plumbing Superhero.”

IAPMO partnered with plumber Judaline Cassidy, a member of Plumbers Local Union No. 1 NYC who is also the founder of the nonprofit Tools & Tiaras and was cited as one of CNN’s “Champions for Change.” Inspired by Cassidy’s 25-year career, “My Mom Is a Plumbing Superhero” illustrates how plumbers work on advanced water technologies to mitigate the effects of drought and natural disasters. The book also portrays women installing and maintaining medical gas systems.

“People need to know that plumbing is not just clogged toilets,” Cassidy said. “Clean water, steam heat, beautiful fixtures, gas lines ”“ the pipes and systems that rely on my craft are in homes and buildings everywhere. My work is not only essential to daily life. My work saves lives.”

Only 2.1% of plumbers are women, according to 2021 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“All of us at IAPMO are inspired by Judaline’s career journey and her message that plumbing careers are not gendered. Rather, it is about having the best plumbers to improve the way we live,” IAPMO CEO Dave Viola said.

The 32-page book is available as a free PDF download, and qualifying organizations may order printed quantities from IAPMO at cost. Visit UniformCodes.org/plumbing-superhero for more information.