A Year of Growth and Innovation: Insights from Jay Catojo
With over 20 years of experience in the water distribution industry, Jay Catojo has a deep-rooted passion for business development and a commitment to fostering lasting relationships within the sector. After spending his early years working in the plumbing and heating wholesale business, Jay transitioned into the waterworks industry, where he quickly found his calling. Since joining Pro-Line Fittings in June 2024, Jay has played a pivotal role in driving the company’s growth in Eastern Canada.
In this exclusive Q&A, Jay reflects on his first year with Pro-Line, sharing his journey, the challenges the waterworks industry faces today, and the strategies Pro-Line Fittings is using to stay ahead. From sustainability and climate change pressures to the increasing role of innovation in infrastructure, Jay offers valuable insights into how the waterworks sector is evolving. His passion for collaboration and problem-solving shines through as he discusses the exciting future ahead for Pro-Line and the industry as a whole.
Q&A with Jay Catojo
Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to pursue a career in business development within the waterworks sector?
My dad spent most of his career in the Plumbing and Heating wholesale business, and I got my start working in the warehouse during March Break and Summer Holidays. It didn’t take long to see how much he loved the industry, and being around it growing up, I found myself developing that same passion. In high school, I majored in plumbing with the goal of becoming a licensed plumber. But after getting more experience on the wholesale side, I realized that’s where I felt most at home. I eventually joined a mid-sized independent distributor, NUROC, and spent about 10 years there before the business was sold to a larger company with a Water Works division. A few years later, I relocated to Barrie to take on a Branch Manager role, where we brought the Water Works division into our Plumbing and Heating operation. That’s when it really clicked, this was the part of the industry I wanted to focus on for the final chapter of my career. I’ve now been in water distribution industry for over 20 years, holding several management and director roles, but Sales and Business Development have always been where my passion truly lies.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your role as Director of Business Development for Eastern Canada at Pro-Line Fittings?
Collaborating closely with distributors and partners to deliver solutions that truly make a difference in their projects and communities. Contributing to Pro-Line Fittings growth and strategic direction, working alongside a passionate team committed to quality and customer service.
Outside of your professional life, what are some personal interests or hobbies you enjoy that help you recharge?
First and foremost, I’m a family man with three boys, and I really cherish the time I get to spend with them. Their sports schedules keep me busy, but when I’m looking to recharge, I turn to the outdoors. Whether it’s going for a walk, hitting the trails, or just being outside, it’s the best way for me to reset.
What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the waterworks industry in Canada today?
One of the biggest challenges facing the Canadian waterworks industry is aging infrastructure that’s long overdue for replacement, with major investment needed to keep systems reliable. Adding to the challenge, much of the workforce is approaching retirement, and with few younger people stepping in to replace them, the industry risks losing decades of valuable experience and hard-earned knowledge. To keep things moving forward, we need to focus on investing in people, technology, and long-term planning.
With the increasing focus on sustainability and climate change, how do you see the waterworks sector adapting to these new pressures?
The waterworks sector is adapting by focusing on efficiency and smarter infrastructure. There’s a push for better materials, reduced water loss, and digital tools that help monitor systems in real time. It’s all about finding practical, cost-effective ways to future proof our infrastructure while staying reliable.
Can you explain Pro-Line Fittings’ commitment to sustainability and how it influences your product offerings and services?
At Pro-Line Fittings, sustainability is built into the way we operate. We focus on producing high-quality, long-lasting products using advanced PVC fabrication technologies that reduce waste and improve system efficiency. By designing solutions that stand the test of time, we help our customers minimize environmental impact and maintenance costs. We also work closely with partners who share our commitment to responsible practices, ensuring sustainability is considered at every stage, from product design to customer support. It’s not just about being environmentally conscious; it’s about delivering smarter, more efficient solutions that benefit everyone in the long run.
What trends do you see emerging in the waterworks industry over the next 5 to 10 years, and how is Pro-Line positioning itself to stay ahead of these trends?
I see a strong push toward smarter infrastructure, increased use of advanced materials, and greater digital integration for monitoring and maintenance. The industry will also continue focusing on sustainability and efficiency to meet growing environmental and regulatory demands. Pro-Line is positioning itself by investing in innovative PVC fabrication technologies and expanding our product lines to offer more durable, efficient solutions. Staying flexible and customer focused allows us to adapt or pivot quickly as these trends evolve.
What role do you believe innovation and technology play in shaping the future of the waterworks industry, and are there any exciting developments on the horizon at Pro-Line?
Innovation and technology are driving the future of the waterworks industry by improving product quality, system efficiency, and overall reliability. At Pro-Line, we’re proud to use state-of-the-art PVC fabrication technologies that enable us to produce high-precision, durable fittings designed to meet the evolving needs of the market. We’ve got some exciting developments on the horizon here at Pro-Line, but you’ll have to stay tuned for those!!
In your opinion, how does Pro-Line Fittings differentiate itself from its competitors in the waterworks sector, and what sets the company apart when working with key stakeholders and clients?
Pro-Line Fittings stands out by combining high-quality products with the ability to customize solutions through our in-house PVC fabrication. This flexibility allows us to respond quickly and accurately to customer needs, an advantage that gives us a real edge in the market. We’re also known for being approachable, responsive, and easy to work with. Which has helped us build strong, lasting relationships with our clients and partners. What truly differentiates us is our people! We’ve built a team that understands the industry inside and out and we work hard to provide value beyond just the product. Whether it’s technical support, fast turnaround times, or creative problem-solving, our goal is always to make the customer’s job easier.
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