by John Crowley | Apr 30, 2025 | Uncategorized
A Hub for Cutting-Edge Technology & Collaboration The 2025 MEP Innovation Conference in Los Angeles delivered a dynamic and forward-thinking event, bringing together more than 700 leaders from the mechanical, electrical and sheet metal trades. Over the course of four days, industry professionals explored the latest technological advancements, shared insights on emerging trends and connected with peers from across the country.The 17,000-square-foot facility of Sheet Metal JATC Local 105 showcases the latest in sheet metal fabrication and HVAC system installation. One of the standout moments of the conference was the exclusive tour of the Sheet Metal JATC Local 105 training facility, where attendees witnessed firsthand how modern apprenticeships are blending cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship. The 17,000-square-foot space showcased the latest in sheet metal fabrication, HVAC system installation, and smart building integration. For many, it was an eye-opening look at the future of skilled labor training.Top Left: SMACNA Past President Angie Simon talks with Jason Watson, Executive Director of Labor Relations at SMACNA.. Top Right and Bottom: MEP Innovation Conference attendees tour the Sheet Metal JATC Local 105 training facility.Inside the Future of Skilled TradesDuring the tour, visitors engaged with instructors and apprentices who demonstrated the facility’s state-of-the-art equipment, including automated plasma cutters, 3D modeling software and augmented reality training modules. The integration of digital tools into the hands-on learning environment underscored how apprentices today are mastering both theoretical knowledge and practical application.Attendees marveled at the way Local 105 is preparing the next generation of sheet metal workers to navigate an industry increasingly shaped by automation and AI. They were impressed to see how much technology has been incorporated into traditional trades. Blending hands-on skills with digital fluency is shaping the industry’s future.An Evolving Conference for an Evolving IndustrySince its redevelopment in 2022 by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) and the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA), the MEP Innovation Conference has grown into one of the premier events for construction technology and innovation.With a robust agenda spanning AI applications in construction, advanced project management tools and cutting-edge fabrication techniques, the 2025 conference highlighted the rapid evolution of the industry. “You see the levels at which people are engaging now,” says Stephen L. Rose, Director of Technical Innovation and Facilities at the Electrical Training Institute of Southern California. “It’s no longer just project managers and tech specialists — company presidents are here, learning about AI and how to integrate it into their businesses.”Left: At the Sheet Metal JATC Local 105 training facility, attendees witnessed how modern apprenticeships are blending cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship. Top Right: Scott Sheppard, The Bowers Group, Beltsville, Maryland, points to a SMART chart showing labeling guidelines on a typical HVAC system.Bottom Right: Facility tour attendees listen to a presentation. Many of the presentations demonstrated the facility’s state-of-the-art equipment, including 3D modeling software, automated plasma cutters and reality training modules.A new feature this year was the Sponsored Demonstration Rooms, where attendees could interact directly with the latest technologies showcased on the trade show floor. “Oh my gosh — tech, tech, tech and more tech,” Rose says. “Once upon a time, you’d come to a conference like this and see rows of hand tools. Now, you see AI-driven software, automation tools and cloud-based project management systems taking center stage.”Innovation in Action: The 2025 MEP Innovator of the YearThe conference also celebrated groundbreaking contributions to the industry with the MEP Innovator of the Year award. This year’s recipient, Collin Weiner, President of CalEnergy Corporation, was recognized for his leadership in integrating fault-managed power, advanced lighting controls and smart building systems. Weiner has been at the forefront of using data-driven strategies and cutting-edge materials to push the industry forward.A Commitment to CommunityIn addition to showcasing technology and innovation, the conference emphasized giving back. With the event coinciding with the containment of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, NECA, MCAA, SMACNA and the New Horizons Foundation pledged up to $60,000 for disaster relief efforts. Attendees were encouraged to contribute, pushing the final donation total even higherLooking Ahead to 2026As the 2025 MEP Innovation Conference ended, one thing was clear: The future of mechanical, electrical and sheet metal contracting is evolving at a rapid pace. Those who embrace change, invest in new technologies and foster industry collaboration will lead the way forward.The 2026 MEP Innovation Conference is set to take place in Austin, Texas, from January 26–28. Stay tuned for registration details and another opportunity to be at the forefront of industry transformation.
by John Crowley | Apr 30, 2025 | Uncategorized
SMACNA Launches
New Website:
A Game-Changer for Contractors Finding essential industry resources shouldn’t feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Yet for years, that was the reality for contractors navigating SMACNA’s old website. A clunky search function, scattered navigation and overwhelming amounts of content made it frustrating — even for staff — to track down critical materials like Technical Standards, training courses and legislative updates.That’s why SMACNA took action, embarking on a major website overhaul to create a smarter, more intuitive digital hub for its members. The result? A sleek, streamlined website that doesn’t just look good; it works hard to support contractors in their day-to-day operations when they are looking for resources and support.SMACNA members are incredibly busy running projects, managing teams and staying ahead of industry changes,” says Susannah Forde, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications for SMACNA. “They don’t have time to waste digging through a confusing website. We built this new platform to make sure they can find what they need quickly and efficiently.”Built for the Way Contractors WorkOne of the biggest improvements? Navigation that makes sense. Gone are vague categories like “Learn” and “Be Informed.” Instead, core sections — Technical Standards, Education & Events, Business Resources and Government Affairs — are front and center, ensuring members can access critical information with just a few clicks.The Resource Center is another game-changer, offering a one-stop shop for training, guides and industry articles — all neatly organized by topic. Plus, the site’s enhanced search function delivers faster, more accurate results, highlighting popular search terms and featured answers for quick access to key insights.A Site That Tells the Industry’s StoryBeyond functionality, the website redesign also amplifies the voices of SMACNA members. The new “About the Industry” section introduces the world to the vital work of sheet metal and HVAC contractors, showcasing their projects, innovations and contributions to the communities they serve.“SMACNA members are leaders in construction technology, sustainability and workforce development,” says Aaron Hilger, CEO of SMACNA. “This new website doesn’t just serve our members; it elevates their work and highlights their impacts on the industry.”Smarter Behind the ScenesIt’s not just the front-end experience that got a major upgrade. The new content management system ensures SMACNA staff can easily update the site, keeping content fresh, relevant and accessible. That means members will always know what’s new, what’s trending and what’s ahead for the industry.At its core, this website redesign isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about delivering real value to SMACNA contractors. A well-designed website should work as hard as the industry professionals who rely on it, and with this transformation, SMACNA is proving that digital tools can be just as powerful as the hands that build America’s infrastructure.The new site went live in February, marking the beginning of a more connected, efficient and informed SMACNA community.
by John Crowley | Apr 30, 2025 | Uncategorized
Navigating Uncertainty:
A Call for Caution and Collaboration
Amid Political and Economic Shifts Its origin is less clear. Perhaps a group of British Diplomats in China and later politicians in England started it. Kennedy used it in a speech in 1966 at the University of Cape Town in South Africa titled the “Day of Affirmation Address.” He was talking about unrest and the ongoing civil rights movement — a positive message. He was also focused on the importance of youth involvement in society and politics and the danger and unrest that come from attempts to change. To me, the phrase has always been about opportunity and risk. We are indeed experiencing something “interesting” with our political leadership. This affects all SMACNA members, regardless of country. It also affects our partners at SMART, and at the national level, we are dedicated to working together to mitigate the challenges. We are all in this together.Lately, I see a lot more risk than opportunity. As the son and grandson of a small businessman, I strongly believe in limited government and the importance of individual effort for success. That translates to being broadly sympathetic to the efforts to shrink the size of government and limit the excess spending that inevitably comes from the “worst system of government, except for all the rest” (thank you, Winston, for your wisdom). It does not lead to supporting an effort that is made up of kids wildly swinging machetes around to cut agencies and staff. The lack of thoughtfulness is astounding. Government has critical roles in many areas, and care must be taken to avoid chopping off essential limbs. The entire tariff discussion focuses my attention on the risks for our members and the world economy. Targeted tariffs that address specific problems are a valuable tool in international relations. They can help create level playing fields for industries, induce fair competition and serve wider geopolitical ends. Broad tariffs, such that we may be subject to in an attempt to solve imagined problems created by trade imbalances, imagined unfairness or internal budget problems, are simply silly. The Trump administration is doing everything it can to destroy the economy, kill jobs and force a realignment of world trade. Unfortunately, we are the front-line casualties of that effort. A realignment in global trade has been coming since the USSR fell. It was only a matter of time before isolationist elements in the Republican and Democratic parties would start pushing to end the post-World War II security guarantee the United States provided to global commerce. The clock on that spending began when the big enemy was vanquished. The post-WWII system relied on secure shipping. The world economy is built on the notion that we can move goods freely globally. America sacrificed some of the success that it could have had to raise the tide for the world. It worked amazingly well, ushering in the greatest prosperity that humanity has experienced. Many books have been written on this topic, and more will be published. I am old enough to have lived through the fall of the Berlin Wall and the “velvet” revolutions in Eastern Europe — and to feel how meaningful those changes were. At the time, I did not predict the end of this global commerce as we know it. Gen X may be one of the generations that live at the beginning and the end of a world order. For associations, our task is to anticipate the political winds, react affirmatively to the unexpected and chart the best outcome for our members. SMACNA’s legal and government relations teams have worked tirelessly to guide members. We have spent countless hours with members of Congress and the administration — and will continue to do so. For the last few weeks, I have sent chapters a tariff update to inform them what we have learned. The theme of those updates could be something like “the truth right now, subject to immediate change at any time!” I am writing this article on March 27. The story will change at least five times before April 2, when many tariffs are supposed to take effect. It will change again and again after that. The real-world impacts of the words coming out of the Trump administration will hurt. Metal prices have risen, and so have the costs of equipment. Vehicles are already more expensive in anticipation of tariffs. Projects are being canceled or pushed back. Members report layoffs due to the uncertainty and owner pullbacks. We are still having a good year, but that could change if this continues. We will do everything that we can to limit the effects. It is also important to remember that nothing is permanent, and damage done today can be repaired in the future. Please share your stories as we continue to navigate this very uncertain world. The documents about price increases, project issues and schedule changes have helped SMACNA explain to officials how tariffs and continuous changes impact our members & workers. When a significant change happens, the individual story often makes a difference. You can also support our work by becoming a PAC supporter. If you have not already done so, please go to SMACNA’s website and sign a prior authorization form. That will allow us to communicate more about politics and give you opportunities to engage with the Administration and Members of Congress. SMACNA has a very active schedule of events. Our next Fab Forum at McCusker-Gill is sold out in early April. Education programs like Business Management University and Project Managers Institute continue to sell out. The tech department is hosting many technical university programs. For something to look forward to, Convention Registration opens on April 24 at noon. Register early; we will sell out in Maui. I’m looking forward to a great line-up of education sessions and keynote speakers. See you there, if not before! Aaron Hilger is CEO of SMACNA, bringing more than two decades of executive association leadership to this role. Hilger is focused on building a stronger, more competitive environment for all SMACNA contractors.
by John Crowley | Apr 30, 2025 | Uncategorized
Architectural: Working in the Red Zone Running out the clock wasn’t an option when SMACNA member Liberty Sheet Metal won a bid to put new architectural panels on a Detroit hotel.SMACNA contractor Liberty Sheet Metal made and installed architectural panels for a Detroit hotel hosting the 2024 NFL draft. The downtown Courtyard Marriott would be packed with guests in town for the 2024 NFL draft. Liberty workers would have just weeks — without timeouts or delays — to fabricate and install panels for the hotel’s front entrance. The new facade was part of a $9.5 million renovation of the 260-room property. At Liberty Sheet Metal’s shop, ACM Fabricator Cheyn Dixon assembles a panel like those used in the Courtyard Detroit Marriott project. The draft was one of the biggest events to hit the Motor City in recent memory. It wasn’t just an announcement of players and teams for the upcoming season. It was a multi-day celebration of America’s favorite sport, with interactive exhibits, free concerts and the chance to get player autographs and see the famous Vince Lombardi Trophy. Hundreds of thousands of fans from across the country were expected to attend the 2024 draft. Higley Construction, the project’s Ohio-based general contractor, awarded Liberty the $250,000 contract in December 2023. The draft was taking place April 25-27, 2024. But because the hotel entrance had to be rebuilt before the panels could be installed, Liberty couldn’t start putting them in place until March. That gave the company only a few weeks to complete its work. A 100% Architectural CompanyBased in a rural part of southeastern Michigan, Liberty Sheet Metal is a 100% architectural contractor that’s been in business more than 25 years. It specializes in aluminum composite panels; metal walls, siding and roofing; and custom architectural designs. Its project list includes a nearby high school, apartment complexes, the University of Michigan and a major Mercedes-Benz research facility. Justin Becker, Liberty’s Director of Estimating and Project Management, says the short time frame, plus the high profile of the NFL draft, made it different. “This was an interesting project,” Becker says. “We were selected because of our knowledge and our experience. We definitely had a budget that we had to maintain, but they were most concerned about scheduling and timing and the unique materials on the facade.”The hotel’s new entrance features about 2,000 square feet of panels from manufacturers such as Longboard, Reynobond and Knight Wall. They’re made from 0.125-inch aluminum and 4 mm composite aluminum, finished in colors such as black and Light National Walnut. The entrance has warm tones of wood that contrast with silver metal highlights. Fabrication work took place at Liberty’s 40,000-square-foot sheet metal shop, located about an hour from Detroit. Becker says they ran into an issue securing the mineral wool used to insulate the metal panels. Supply Shortages“Back in January of 2024, there was a huge mineral wool shortage,” Becker recalls. “It was really hard to get. I was making calls left and right to get the mineral wool. We had to ‘steal’ it from other jobs and make deals with other people to get enough for this job.”Trucks brought panels from the shop twice a week. Liberty’s Project Foreman Frank Vallejo supervised the work.With all trades working in a tight area with the NFL draft deadline looming, Becker expected the project work to get hectic. “I’ve never had so many meetings and so much coordination for what I would consider a relatively small job,” he says. “But because of that, we navigated and mitigated any disasters. Everything had to be thought through. So we would sit in meetings to figure out ‘How do we navigate around this issue?’ And I was like, ‘Well, we can do this, this and that with what we’ve got.’ And then, boom. ‘OK, let’s do that.’”Becker says Liberty employees never forgot that they were working on a high-profile job that would make an impression on people from across the country. “That was kind of in the back of our minds the whole time,” he says. Liberty finished its work in early April, a few weeks before the draft. Becker went to the event as a fan and to check out his company’s work. “I walked right past the hotel. It was open and people were just walking through,” he says. “I was like, ‘Man, if you were here two months ago. You should have seen the chaos that was going on.’” Becker says Higley was happy with Liberty’s work on the hotel. And Aaron Paczkowski, the Higley executive on the project, was good to work with, he adds. “We had developed a great relationship with the general contractor,” Becker says. “So we’re getting more work with them, I think, because of our performance on this project.”
by John Crowley | Apr 30, 2025 | Uncategorized
Residential: How To Build a Stronger Company Culture Walk into any HVAC or sheet metal contracting company, and you’ll likely find a “Company Values” poster hanging on a breakroom wall. It probably has words like “Integrity,” “Teamwork,” and “Excellence” in bold letters. But as Craig Woodall of Grinnell Leadership points out, a poster alone isn’t going to transform company culture.“Culture isn’t something you create with a committee and a media campaign,” Woodall says. “You don’t slap a mission statement on the wall, hand out branded Yetis and expect everything to change.”For contractors looking to fix broken workplace culture, the key isn’t in expensive giveaways or motivational slogans. It’s in the small, daily leadership moments that shape how employees feel about their work.Why Culture Matters (and Why Yours Might Be Struggling)Woodall emphasizes that strong leadership is the foundation of a great company culture. When leaders fail to set the right tone, organizations struggle with ego-driven decision-making, bias and fear — all of which can destroy trust among employees.“You have to address the fundamental fears that people have in the workplace,” Woodall says. “The fear of not belonging, the fear of not contributing and even the fear of losing their freedom.”For HVAC and sheet metal contractors, these fears often show up in:A lack of communication from leadership. Micromanagement that kills innovation and morale. An “old-school” mentality that resists new ideas and change. Instead of fixing these issues, many companies try to mask them with grand “culture initiatives” that don’t actually change behavior. That’s why the first step to real improvement is acknowledging that culture isn’t a one-time project; it’s a daily practice.Simple Leadership Fixes That Actually WorkOnce a residential HVAC contracting company understands why culture matters, it’s time to do the real work of fixing company culture. Woodall suggests these three steps:1. Rethink Leadership Moments. Great leadership isn’t about dramatic speeches or annual company retreats. It’s about small, everyday actions that build trust and morale. “Think about the best boss you ever had,” Woodall says. “What did they do? Start there.”For contracting businesses, this could mean:Taking five minutes to check in with a technician before they head to a job. Publicly recognizing someone’s hard work at a team meeting. Listening to employees’ concerns and actually acting on them. 2. Stop Confusing ‘Urgent’ With ‘Important.’ The HVAC and sheet metal industries are fast-paced and demanding. But when everything feels like a fire drill, company culture takes a hiWoodall advises leaders to make time for what truly matters — not just the next job on the schedule. “Yes, emergencies happen, but if you don’t prioritize team development, you’re just running in circles,” he points out.Instead of letting culture take a backseat, schedule time for leadership moments, even during peak seasons.3. Embrace Differences Instead of Fighting Them. What’s one of the biggest culture mistakes companies make? Expecting every employee to work and think the same way. “You hired different people for a reason,” Woodall says. “So don’t expect them to be the same.” That means:Encouraging experienced workers to mentor newer employees, rather than just criticizing them. Creating space for fresh ideas, even if they challenge long-standing practices. Recognizing that younger generations may have different work expectations (and that’s OK). Building a Culture That LastsAt the end of the day, improving company culture isn’t about big, flashy initiatives; it’s about consistency.“Do something,” Woodall says. “Do anything. But don’t do nothing.”If you want employees to stay, be engaged and perform at their best, leadership must show up every single day. That means fostering a culture of gratitude, open communication and respect for every worker — from apprentices to senior foremen.“Culture isn’t built in a day,” Woodall says. “It’s built in the moments that matter.”
