Los Angeles, California Jun 10, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Ignacio Duron, CEO of Most Valuable Plumber, is using his recent interview to raise awareness about the growing need for skilled trade education, early mentorship, and practical career exposure for young people.
Duron, who grew up in North Hollywood and built his career through hands-on plumbing work, says many young people never get a clear look at trade careers before making major life decisions.
“People don’t think about plumbing until something breaks,” Duron said. “But these systems are always working in the background.”
His comments come at a time when the skilled trades face rising demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 44,000 openings for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters each year from 2024 to 2034. The construction industry will need to attract an estimated 349,000 net new workers in 2026, according to Associated Builders and Contractors. ASCE’s 2025 Infrastructure Report Card also found that U.S. drinking water systems require more than $625 billion over 20 years to reach a state of good repair.
Duron believes these numbers point to a simple need: more people must understand what skilled trades actually involve.
“When you start in the field, you see what really matters,” Duron said. “You learn quickly that shortcuts come back to you later.”
Duron co-founded Most Valuable Plumber with his siblings and brother-in-law. The company serves communities across Los Angeles County, including Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, North Hollywood, and surrounding areas. His own path shaped his belief that field experience builds stronger workers, stronger companies, and stronger communities.
He also sees mentorship as part of the solution. Outside of business, Duron coaches youth football, flag football, and basketball, including his sons’ teams.
“You can’t rush development,” Duron said. “You show them, you repeat it, and they improve over time.”
Duron says the same idea applies to career growth. Young people need exposure, patience, and practical examples. They need to see real work up close.
“Most progress comes from doing the basics well every day,” Duron said.
Call to Action
Duron encourages parents, coaches, teachers, tradespeople, and community members to take simple steps on their own.
Talk to young people about trade careers. Invite them to ask questions. Share what real work looks like. Encourage hands-on learning at home. Support local apprenticeships. Respect skilled work in everyday conversations.
“No one has to wait for a large programme to start helping,” Duron said. “Sometimes one honest conversation can change how someone sees their future.”
About Ignacio Duron
Ignacio Duron is the CEO of Most Valuable Plumber, a family-run plumbing company serving Los Angeles County. Raised in North Hollywood, he built his career through hands-on trade experience before co-founding the business with his siblings and brother-in-law. He is also a youth sports coach and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Business Law at Arizona State University.
Media Contact
Ignacio Duron info@ignacioduronceo.com http://ignacioduronceo.com
