HAZELWOOD, MO — October 20, 2026 — Rapid Locking System (RLS), the original provider of press-to-connect fittings for high-pressure HVAC/R systems, today announced that it has been named the exclusive national sponsor of the PHCC Educational Foundation’s Rising Leaders course. The sponsorship builds on RLS’s ongoing investment in the trades and supports the Foundation’s work to develop the next generation of HVAC/R leaders.
Rising Leaders finds emerging talent in the plumbing, heating and cooling industry and prepares them for leadership roles. The course will be delivered in a self-paced online eLearning format, which is structured into eight core instructional units spanning time management and conflict resolution to communication, teamwork, leadership, and project planning. RLS’s sponsorship expands the program’s reach and resources for participants nationwide.
“The skilled trades represent one of the biggest opportunities in our economy today and the demand for talented technicians has never been greater,” said Susan Labadie, President, RLS. “We believe in investing in training and mentorship for the technicians who will lead this industry tomorrow. This partnership puts our resources directly behind the next generation, on a national scale, when they need it most.”
RLS announced this impactful sponsorship while exhibiting at PHCC CONNECT 2026 in Milwaukee, where attendees can participate in live press demonstrations and share installation and jobsite safety insights with RLS technical staff from RLS at Booth #416 and the RLS Truck (Booth #443).
The live demonstrations give attendees a hands-on look at how RLS helps contractors work more safely, efficiently, and reliably. Designed as a flame-free alternative to brazing, RLS fittings remove open flame from the jobsite, reduce installation time, and minimize the need for hot-work permits and fire watches. The press-to-connect process also delivers consistent, repeatable connections, helping both experienced technicians and apprentices install with confidence.
RLS’ Commitment to the Trades
This sponsorship builds on RLS’s continued investment in the trades. At its St. Louis Training Center, RLS provides contractors, engineers, and distributors hands-on instruction, live demos, technical workshops, and manufacturing tours. RLS on Tour, a fully equipped mobile showroom, extends these educational opportunities to job sites and distributor locations nationwide, featuring live demos and burst tests.
Together, these programs support RLS’ goal of training over 20,000 contractors, engineers, and distributors each year. The partnership also builds on RLS’ broader PHCC engagement. As a PHCC national member, RLS can provide support for crucial programs and activities offered to industry professionals by 18 state chapters across the country.