Pipe Up! With The General President

#19 Data Centers – With Chris Madello

As AI and digital infrastructure continue to expand across North America, data centers have become one of the fastest-growing sectors of UA work—and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, General President Mark McManus sits down with UA International Representative Chris Madello to discuss the rise of data centers, the myths and misinformation surrounding them, and why these projects are critical to the future of modern infrastructure and skilled trades jobs.   The conversation also highlights the massive opportunities data centers are creating for UA members through apprenticeship growth, training, service work, and long-term market share.

#18 Politics, Permitting & UA Jobs – With Russ Breckenridge

From Washington to job sites across the country, the policies being debated right now have a direct impact on UA members and the work ahead. In this episode, General President Mark McManus sits down with UA Director of Legislative and Political Affairs Russ Breckenridge to break down the current political landscape, the importance of bipartisan engagement, and why issues like permitting reform and infrastructure investment are critical to keeping UA members on the job.   They also discuss the UA’s role in politics, how members can stay engaged, and what it takes to turn policy into real job opportunities across North America.

#17 UA Pipeline Conference 2026

Recorded during the 2026 UA Pipeline Conference, General President Mark McManus sits down with UA Director of Pipeline and Gas Distribution Chad Gilbert and UA Local 798 Business Manager Justin Wallace to discuss the state of the pipeline industry and the work ahead. They break down the growing demand for pipeline infrastructure, the massive projects on the horizon, and how the UA is preparing its workforce through training, organizing, and new apprenticeship programs. The conversation also highlights the importance of market share, strong contractor partnerships, and ensuring the next generation of skilled pipeline workers is ready to meet the moment. It’s a look at an industry on the rise—and the opportunities it creates for UA members across North America.

#16 World Plumbing Day with Tom Bigley

In recognition of World Plumbing Day, General President Mark McManus sits down with UA Director of Plumbing Services Tom Bigley for a conversation on the vital role plumbers play in protecting public health, delivering clean water, and keeping communities running. Drawing on decades in the trade, they reflect on the evolution of the plumbing industry, the importance of strong codes and training, and the work being done to grow market share and create more opportunities for UA members.

#15 New Business Managers: Cameron Wilkinson, Cody Penniston, Mark Heinmiller

Recorded in the new Pipe Up! studio at UA Headquarters, this episode features newly elected Business Managers Cameron Wilkinson (Local 26 – Western Washington), Cody Penniston (Local 519 – Miami, FL), and Mark Heinmiller (Local 189 – Columbus, OH). Fresh off the UA’s New Business Manager Seminar, they discuss their journeys into the pipe trades, stepping into leadership, strengthening their locals, and creating more opportunity for their members. It’s a conversation about growth, responsibility, and building the future of the United Association.