San Diego, CA — Two deserving chapter executives received SMACNA’s Chapter Executive of the Year award at SMACNA’s Annual Convention for their efforts in tackling one of SMACNA’s most critical initiatives: recruiting a skilled workforce.

Lauri Rollings, executive director of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors Association of Milwaukee, and Linda Jennings, executive vice president of SMACNA San Diego, were recognized by then SMACNA President Jack Knox as co-winners.

Linda Jennings’ list of accomplishments include:

  • Teaming up with the SMART Local 206 and the J.A.T.C. to establish an active and successful recruitment program.
  • Working with veteran groups such as the Wounded Warriors Project and the Warriors to Work to educate interested veterans about the local apprenticeship program.
  • Maintaining a “direct entry” program for both veterans and non-union workers.
  • Teaming up with industry partners to provide new veteran applicants with a tool package, ensuring they are given the best tools to succeed and are prepared from day one.

The San Diego chapter recruitment efforts have been met with outstanding success because 50 percent of the current apprentice class are veterans and 15 percent are women.

Linda Jennings has an exemplary track record in both local and national advocacy having received the Chapter Executive Legislative Advocate of the Year Award in 2001.