San Diego Takes Home Two PHCC of California Awards

Each year, PHCC of California hosts its annual Spotlight Awards, honoring standout contractors and affiliates from chapters across the state. This year, PHCC San Diego walked away with two of those honors, and we want to take a moment to recognize the people behind them.

Contractor of the Year 2026: Michael DeSilva, Plumbing Plus

Michael DeSilva, our Immediate Past President, was named Contractor of the Year for 2026.

Mike and Plumbing Plus have been staples of PHCC San Diego for years, and this award reflects the impact he's had on our chapter and our industry.

Mike goes above and beyond for his company, his team, and the trade as a whole. He regularly sends apprentices through the PHCC San Diego Academy, giving the next generation of plumbers a real path into the industry. He's also served on multiple board appointments at both the local and state level, putting in the work to move the industry forward for everyone, not just his own business.

That commitment to growth extends to his team. Mike's crew is diverse in race, creed, veteran status, and background, and every one of them gets access to in-house training along with Nexstar and PHCC Academy courses. The results show up where it matters most: his staff retention. Apprentices and employees recognize strong, positive leadership when they see it, and they reward it with loyalty.

Affiliate of the Year 2026: Sarah Hooper, Signature Sales

Sarah Hooper of Signature Sales was named Affiliate of the Year for 2026, and it's an honor that's been a long time coming.

Sarah has served on our board of directors, offering her time and expertise to lead trainings for both members and apprentices. She keeps our chapter informed on regulation changes as they happen and regularly taps her industry connections to help improve our events, trainings, and member offerings.

Beyond her formal role, Sarah is always the first to volunteer when we need an extra hand. She's also gone out of her way to connect our PHCC Academy with potential equipment and supply donations, a contribution that directly benefits our students. Sarah and the entire team at Signature Sales have consistently shown up for PHCC San Diego, and this award recognizes exactly that.

Congratulations, Michael and Sarah

Awards like these don't happen without real, sustained investment in an industry and a community. Michael DeSilva and Sarah Hooper have both shown what that investment looks like, and PHCC San Diego is stronger because of it.

Want to be part of a chapter that recognizes contractors and affiliates doing great work? Join PHCC San Diego or explore upcoming events to get connected.