Hite

William P. (Bill) Hite is retired general president of the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters and a dynamic labor leader committed to expanding skills training opportunities and increasing the competitiveness of the U.S. He is a graduate of the National Labor College with a BA in union leadership and administration. As president, he represents the UA in dealings with government, owners, other labor unions, and the public.

Bill’s efforts have made the UA a true leader among labor organizations, with such programs as its award-winning Veterans in Piping (VIP) Program, a nationwide initiative in the U.S. that provides skills training and excellent job transitions for service members at no cost to vets. He was appointed to the President’s Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations by President George W. Bush. He also is the only labor leader appointed to the President’s Export Council, which is the principal national advisory committee to President Barack Obama on international trade.

A cancer survivor, Bill has learned not to take anything for granted and now serves as a major fundraiser for the Mayo Clinic. He and Pat have been married for 42 years, and have two children and seven grandchildren.