Meet Dave Shanor, 2023 Plumbing National Championship Finalist
This year, the Elite Trades Championship Series (ETCS) expanded its suite of skilled trades competitions with the addition of the inaugural Plumbing National Championship. While the ETCS has held competitions in HVAC, auto and electrical trades, this new championship celebrates and showcases the exceptional skills of plumbers across the country, and SharkBite is proud to be the category sponsor.
About the plumbing competition
There are three rounds to the championship. After hundreds entered the competition by taking a 3-minute quiz designed by Florida PHCC, 20 semi-finalists advanced to Round 2, which included a timed, at-home plumbing challenge. From there, only five plumbers emerged and will head to Tampa for the finals, which will be televised on CBS Sports Network on Dec. 29 at 7 p.m. ET.
The finalists
Ahead of the program, get to know the top 5 plumbers in the nation. One of them, Dave Shanor, works alongside another finalist, Justin Coutu, at Cropp Metcalfe in Fairfax, Virginia, and has been in the field for 27 years. Get to know his journey to becoming a plumber, his perspectives on the trade, and how he feels knowing he’s one of the best plumbers in the U.S.
1. Tell us about how you first got into the trade.
When I was around 12, my dad started taking me to work with him, and I picked up the trade. After high school, I decided to stick with it as a career.
2. What is your philosophy for achieving a successful career in plumbing?
Don't be afraid of the task ahead of you because the job needs to get done. Work on solutions rather than excuses to get the job done.
3. What is something you wish you knew about the trade that upcoming plumbers should know?
To not be afraid of taking the test to get your licenses. Even if you fail, it helps you know what you need to learn to advance.
4. How does it feel to be considered one of the best plumbers in the U.S.?
It's hard to believe that my plumbing career would get me to this point. I’m happy and proud to know I am among the top in my field.
5. What’s your go to artist(s) you listen to on the job?
Rage Against the Machine.
You can catch Dave and the other four finalists on CBS Sports Network on Dec. 29 at 7 p.m. ET.