VMA News

Registration Now Open: 87th Annual Meeting

The Annual Meeting is for VMA and VRC members to gather with other top executives from across the industrial valve and flow control industry. This is our premier, members-only event focused on strategic insights, policy impacts and the trends shaping our industry. 

VMA and VRC members network during cocktail hour.
 

This year, the event takes place October 13–15, 2025, in Naples, Florida. With topics including AI, supply chain, energy transition and economic outlooks, U.S. policy on trade, tariff and regulations and end-use market segment trends, this year’s agenda is built for leaders navigating a rapidly evolving landscape. 

Networking activities, a robust spouse/guest program and a gala membership awards and dinner round out the event. Group discounts are  available for companies sending multiple attendees. Members can register and find out more at vmaevents.org/annual.

Who Inspires You?

VMA is accepting nominations for our Membership Awards, and invites all members to submit nominations! VMA recognizes those individuals who have made significant contributions to VMA and the industry each year with our Person of the Year and Service Awards. These awards will be presented at the Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony, Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in Naples, Florida (in conjunction with the Annual Meeting).

VMA’s Person of the Year Award is our highest honor and recognizes an individual who embodies leadership, mentorship and a passion for moving our industry forward. The VMA Service Award honors those who go above and beyond to support our mission — through committee leadership, technical expertise, insightful writing or consistent engagement. Nominations must be received by August 15, 2025 at vma.org/awards.

Strategic Plan Updates Begin

The Board of Directors is updating the VMA strategic plan and all members are invited to provide input. Member insights will directly shape the programs, resources and priorities that best serve you, our members, and the broader valve manufacturing industry. Members who haven’t received a survey to complete or who would like more information should contact Heather Rhoderick at hrhoderick@vma.org.

2025 VMA Scholarship Winners Announced

VMA is proud to present the VMA “William Sandler” Scholarship awards to two outstanding students who are pursuing studies in STEM fields related to our industry, and whose parents or guardians work for VMA or VRC member companies.

Autumn Rudisell: Autumn is attending the University of Cincinnati, where she is working toward a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Her father is employed at Indelac Controls, Inc.

Nolan Thiel: Nolan is attending Penn State University, where he is working toward a bachelor’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering. His father is employed by AUMA Actuators, Inc.

VMA and VRC members can find information about the 2026 scholarship at vma.org/sandlerscholar.

Shape the Future of Our Industry

VMA is seeking dedicated leaders from our member companies to serve on the VMA Board of Directors for the 2026–2029 term. This is a meaningful opportunity to help guide the strategic direction of the association and make a lasting impact on the valve and flow control industry. Those interested in serving must submit their information at vma.org/Committees by August 15, 2025. 

Dates and New Location for the 2026 Valve Forum Conference and Exhibits Announced; Call for Abstracts Open

The 2026 Valve Forum: Conference & Exhibits will take place April 13–15 at The Westin in The Woodlands, Texas. This premier industry event is open to all valve professionals, with special registration discounts available for VMA and VRC member companies.

Monday, April 13, will kick off with a full day of programming dedicated to VMA’s Valve Basics training — ideal for those new to the industry or looking to refresh their foundational knowledge. That afternoon, the Valve Forum officially opens with a general session, followed by a networking reception with exhibitors. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in an optional local facility tour earlier in the day.

The conference will continue with a robust schedule of technical, manufacturing, repair and business-focused sessions, along with live product demonstrations, hands-on learning experiences and plenty of networking opportunities throughout. Whether you're looking to stay ahead of industry trends, grow your professional network or bring new insights back to your organization, the 2026 Valve Forum delivers unmatched value.

Call for Abstracts Now Open!

Are you interested in presenting at the 2026 Valve Forum?  Join a renowned list of industry speakers — submit your abstract for consideration by October 31, 2025, by visiting vmaevents.org/ValveForum or use the QR code to access the Call for Abstracts:  

Valve Repair Seminar Success — 2026 Valve Repair Dates Announced

The 2025 Valve Repair Seminar, held in June at the San Jacinto College Center for Petrochemical, Energy & Technology (CPET) in Pasadena, TX, brought together valve repair professionals from across the industry for two days of focused education and high-impact networking. The program featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including representatives from the National Board, MSS (Manufacturers Standardization Society), and API (American Petroleum Institute), who shared critical updates on code changes, industry standards and regulatory developments.

Additionally, the seminar offered application-based sessions covering key topics such as welding, field repair techniques, inspection procedures and maintenance best practices. Highlights included guided tours of United Valve and CPET’s state-of-the-art labs, a well-attended networking reception with exhibitors and engaging roundtable discussions exploring workforce challenges, AI integration and tariff impacts. With its strong focus on professional development and peer networking, the 2025 seminar affirmed its reputation as a must-attend event for the valve repair community.

Planning is underway for next year’s Valve Repair Seminar, being held again at San Jacinto College Center for Petrochemical Energy and Technology, June 9-10, 2026.

For more information, visit www.vmaevents.org.

Mark your Calendars!

• Annual Meeting
  • October 13-15, 2025 | Naples, FL
• Valve Forum: Conference & Exhibits
  • April 13-15, 2026 | The Westin, The Woodlands, TX
  • Call for Abstracts Submissions:  October 31, 2025
• Valve Repair Seminar
  • June 9-10, 2026 | Pasadena, TX