Bay Area SMACNA Newsletter 2nd Edition 2023

NORTH BAY | SAN FRANCISCO | GREATER OAKLAND | SAN MATEO | SANTA CLARA

BAY AREA SMACNA’S

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EDGE MEMBER NEWSLETTER | Second Edition | 2023

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT: KELAIRE Pages 5-6

LOCAL 104 PENSIONER RETURN TO WORK Page 3

CAL SMACNA CONVENTION RECAP Pages 17-22

MEET DUSTY ROBOT Pages 25-26

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IN THIS ISSUE APPRENTICES & INTERNS

MEMBER FEATURES

25 MEET DUSTY THE ROBOT 27 2022 APPRENTICESHIP EVALUATIONS 29 NAME HIRING PRE-APPRENTICES & APPRENTICES 30 SUMMER INTERNSHIPS OFFER EXPERIENCE IN THE TRADES

05 MEMBER HIGHLIGHT: KEL-AIRE 10 NEW ASSOCIATE MEMBER: DISTRIBUTION INTERNATIONAL 11 ASSOCIATE MEMBER HIGHLIGHT: UNION RETIREMENT SOLUTIONS

NEWS & UPDATES EDUCATION 07 CONGRATS TO GRADS OF SPRING PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

02 PRESIDENT’S REMARKS 03 LOCAL 104 PENSIONER RETURN TO WORK CHANGES 09 WE’VE MOVED! A NEW SPACE TO BETTER SERVE OUR MEMBERS 14 THANK YOU TO OUR 2023 WIC SPONSORS

EVENTS & RECAPS 04 FIRE LIFE SAFETY DEMO: SAFETY & RECERTIFICATION 08 SAVE THE DATE: SMACNA ANNUAL CONVENTION 13 RECAP: WIC WEEK 16 RECAP: REGIONAL ADVISORY MEETINGS 17 RECAP: CAL SMACNA CONVENTION 20 RECAP: BRIAN PYLE JOINS CAL SMACNA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 20 SAVE THE DATE: SCHOLARSHIP TRUST GOLF TOURNAMENT 21 RECAP: 2022 SAFETY AWARD RECIPIENTS 22 RECAP: BOBBY BRAMLETT RECEIVES AWARD 23 RECAP: ADVISORY GETAWAY

CHECK THE WEBSITE! www.bayareasmacna.org Stay up to date on the latest news, events and classes. Access the member directory, webinars, internships, scholarships and safety training opportunities. Plus, catch up on past issues of The Cutting Edge!

ASSOCIATION NEWS | Updates from Keith Atteberry

PRESIDENT’S REMARKS

With summer fast approaching, I thought this would be a good opportunity to let everyone know how we’re progressing on some of our important goals and initiatives for 2023: We recently completed our regional Advisory meetings throughout Keith Atteberry the Bay Area. I’m happy to report that turnout was exceptional this PRESIDENT year with a great exchange of ideas and information at every session. k.atteberry@marelich.com It’s energizing to see everyone participating, as these meetings are Tel: 510-576-7610 a great opportunity to keep our membership updated on Board activities and allow them to bring valuable feedback back to our Board. We’re also fresh from our Bay Area Advisory Getaway in North Lake Tahoe, which gave the Board time to discuss issues and challenges faced by our contractors.

As anticipated, we’ve completed construction on our new Bay Area SMACNA office in Pleasanton and have fully relocated! It’s a beautiful site that our entire membership can be proud of and call their own. I’d like to thank Sean O’Donoghue and the entire Bay Area SMACNA staff for their dedication and hard work to make this happen. Please try to make the effort to stop in, say hello and check out the new office.

Education continues to be a top priority, with our first of two annual Project Management Certificate Program sessions already completed this spring (see recap on page 7). The second course will be offered in the fall, along with a full lineup of more educational opportunities now that our staff has transitioned into the new office. Watch for details later in the third quarter.

Although we have yet to see the change in our current market conditions that we hoped to see, Bay Area SMACNA remains financially strong and able to serve our membership well due to good planning and foresight. Additionally, management and labor have had several productive meetings this year to discuss residential and light commercial opportunities. We’re optimistic to offer a more detailed report later this year.

As we move into the summer months, we look to our members to continue providing that dedication to excellence in every project that makes us the best in the Bay!

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INDUSTRY NEWS | Return to Work

LOCAL 104 PENSIONER RETURN TO WORK CHANGES For some contractors, the opportunity to retain key talent from Local 104 makes a significant impact. It enables them more time to develop an

What are the criteria to apply for return-to-work status?

internal succession plan strategy, pursue unique market opportunities or simply give them more time to complete external hires.

Pensioners must be over age 55 and: •

Have been eligible for at least 60 days of pension benefits

•

Apply for positions NOT covered under the collective bargaining agreement EX: Owner-member, project manager, estimator, purchasing, etc.

•

Apply for a maximum period of 48 months

•

Sign a Return to Work Agreement

Recently the Labor and Management Trustees of the Sheet Metal Workers Pension Plan of Northern California (the Plan) updated the guidelines for retired Local 104 District 1 pensioners to apply for Return to Work at signatory contractors without having their benefits suspended or delayed.

Effective January 1, 2023, Local 104 District 1 Employers shall contribute $2,472 per month on behalf of each qualified and approved pension participant over 55 years of age, who began receiving pension benefits before that date, and is approved for Return to Work for 2023.

Employers must also sign an Acknowledgment of Compliance for approved participants.

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The specific Return to Work guidelines are designed to include a process and criteria geared to protect the pension plan while enabling Local 104 employees and contractors to continue existing working relationships that are beneficial to the industry and the company. The guidelines are set to better ensure a consistent process of evaluation and compliance by labor and management.

For a complete copy of the Return to Work in Employment Beneficial to the Industry of the Sheet Metal Workers Pension Plan of Northern California guidelines, email kdejong@bayareasmacna.org.

EVENT RECAP | March 2

FIRE LIFE SAFETY DEMO: SAFETY AND RECERTIFICATION

On March 2, Duane Davies, CEO of NABCO, Chris

and other union sheet metal/TAB professionals to

Walker of CAL SMANCA, Dion Abril of Western States,

perform work that helps save lives and ensures all

Chris Ruch of NEMI and Local 104 employees continued

existing buildings continue to meet the proper code

their exhibition presentation on the importance of

requirements. CAL SMACNA is pushing for legislation

Fire Life Safety training at the Local 104 Santa Clara

on the current code requirements to call for only

JATC. The group utilized the portable training module

union contractors to perform the work. However,

built to demonstrate how a vestibule and stairwell

we need to have enough certified people to support

should protect building occupants in the event of an

the work that will become available. Contractors

emergency.

are encouraged to learn more about early training opportunities so that when legislation is approved, our

Their investment of time and materials reinforces the

contractors will be ready. Please check with your local

need for the skilled and trained workforce of Local 104

JATC coordinator to set up the training.

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MEMBER HIGHLIGHT | Kel-Aire

KEL-AIRE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS & INVALUABLE INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS Having worked for Kel-Aire since 1985, Rob Baldwin has now been the owner for nearly 10 years. With more than 40 years of experience in the HVAC industry, Baldwin has been able to grow not only within Kel-Aire, but also within the ever-changing HVAC industry.

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“Some things never change — we have always prided ourselves on providing consistent, honest, quality work — and other things take big swings,” he said. “The latest trend is getting away from natural gas (furnaces) and moving toward decarbonization. With the move to electric HVAC, heat pumps are making a comeback which makes a blast from the past and simultaneously the wave of the future.”

Typically vapor compression refrigeration devices, heat pumps transfer thermal energy in

both directions (making them reversible). Instead of fuel

shop and they asked him to try it out. He took them up on

burning to create heat, there is a simple transfer of heat.

their offer, got an apprenticeship and eventually got into

While some of their energy comes from electricity or

the administration and sales side of the business. When the

other high-grade energy sources, most of it comes from

previous owner retired, Baldwin was asked to take over and

the outside environment, making them a nice solution for

the rest was history. Perhaps it was an accident or perhaps

going green.

more related to fate.

In addition to heat pumps, Kel-Aire offers ductless

“Heating and cooling were the farthest thing from my brain,

split and full duct air conditioning, customized HVAC specialties (such as humidification), traditional furnaces and maintenance services.

come back for their second or third HVAC system. The company attributes its low need for advertising and high referral business to their high standard of customer service and follow-up.

work with his wife and son

“

(a new college graduate who recently joined the team) but

Some things never change — we have always prided ourselves on providing consistent, honest, quality work – and other things take big swings.

“Communication is

ROB BALDWIN Kel-Aire Owner

everything for home and business owners. We are extremely responsive for their peace of mind, and we don’t rest until the client is happy,” Baldwin said.

The customer experience is paramount to the success of the Kel-Aire team, as evidenced by this testimonial on their website: “Ultimately, what could have been a costly full replacement for thousands of dollars ended up being an affordable repair, and this was not by accident. Robert

“

happy clients who have

any other path!” he said.

Still a family-run business after 50 years, Baldwin is proud to

As Kel-Aire celebrates 50 years in business this year, Baldwin reflects on the

but it was one of those happy accidents as I cannot imagine

feels everyone at Kel-Aire is family. It’s obvious their customers agree.

“Talking to Robert was like talking to family,” reads one customer testimonial.

“Within hours of my initial call, Robert was at the location, assessing issues

and formulating replacement/repair strategies. He gave me great information and was clear, consistent, responsive and upbeat/positive.”

“Kel-Aire always goes above and beyond to do everything,” reads another testimonial. We always use them for any of our heating needs and now A/C. “We are so happy with our new A/C.”

and his team went above and beyond to keep this job

For the last five decades and the foreseeable future, Kel-Aire

affordable, as well as completed properly.”

looks to continue to provide honest and thorough service to its customers and greater community. Being SMACNA

When asked how he got into the HVAC industry, Baldwin

members since 1989 has played a large role in connections,

will tell you it was a complete accident. As a young man,

education and resources that the Kel-Aire team finds

he was working at a warehouse next to a sheet metal

invaluable.

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EDUCATION | April 6

CONGRATS TO GRADS OF SPRING PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM This spring, 27 students graduated from our Project Management Certificate Program, designed specifically for Bay Area SMACNA contractors. Throughout a six-week course, students learned how to successfully orchestrate the people, resources and tasks it takes to execute projects on time and within budget, while developing better relationships with internal and external customers. Our newest session topics on Lean Construction and Change Agility were a big hit with the students.

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Many thanks to all our instructors, including Chris Bennett, Kathy de Jong, Kevin Dougherty, Rae Ann Ianniello, Tony Lowe, Stephane McShane, Mark Napier and Elizabeth Pappy, along with our volunteer panelists, Greg Conn (Therma), Kevin Dougherty and Henry Nutt (Southland).

Program feedback was positive, with many students stating the instructors were excellent and the knowledge gained will help them grow within the sheet metal industry. Here are a few testimonials from recent graduates:

“Overall, the program taught me very concrete examples for the skills and processes to be a successful project manager.

Instead of a high-level overview, each class got into the details and examples.”

“I learned the importance of constantly adapting, listening to the field and what action to take when.”

“I enjoyed the more technical aspects: estimating, change order management, etc.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE APRIL 6 GRADUATING CLASS GAVIN MEENK EVAN LAMPI LAVONDA HAYES JESUS ECHEVARRIA JACOB FETTERS JOSE VARGAS FRANCIE KEANE MATTHEW AZEVEDO CHRIS LOZANO REGINALD CHAUDHARY ANDREW ZIMMERMAN BRIAN LOLLIS SCOTT BROMSTEAD JEFF CONOCENTI

JOHN MCMILLAN BROK HENRIKSEN UMMER MATLOOB ANDREW MARINA MARK SMITH DOMINIC PORTERA DAVID WURNITSCH JORDAN RAMKEY RAMI MALAEB BO PEEVEY SAL ESTEVEZ IVAN VELASCO NICK AIKAWA

EVENT | October 15-18

SMACNA ANNUAL CONVENTION Bring home valuable information and a little Southwest sun after attending the 2023 SMACNA Annual Convention.

The venue is set in the serene Sonoran Desert at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort. It can be counted as both a getaway and a forward-thinking destination to gain insight on industry trends in support of your business. The goal is forward motion!

Register on or before June 15 for early bird pricing, or before July 15 for regular pricing.

OCT

15

OCT

18

OCTOBER 15-18 JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort Phoenix, Arizona

FOR MORE INFORMATION Scan the QR code for details and registration information. https://bit.ly/3Ie6V3H

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ASSOCIATION | Bay Area SMACNA

WE’VE MOVED! A NEW SPACE TO BETTER SERVE OUR MEMBERS It’s official: the new Bay Area SMACNA office is open! We’re super excited about the new location and can’t wait to invite you in. Once we’re settled in, we’ll look forward to hosting our popular Project Management Program in the fall, scheduled for September 19 through October 26. Watch for more details and registration information coming soon!

We’re still working hard to provide you with a state-of-the-art training room and learning environment, so please bear with us as we wrap up construction through the summer. The installation of acoustic ceiling clouds is not only eye-catching, but they were customized to our needs to better control the sound levels of the larger training room. Additionally, we now have multiple screens for presentation viewing, along with the functionality to hold hybrid classes.

Stay tuned for the official opening of the 6689 Owens Dr., Ste. 200, Pleasanton, CA 94588

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training room!

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE & BOARD OF DIRECTORS WALL

ENTRANCE LOBBY

TRAINING ROOM

WELCOME! | New Associate Member Mitch Hoppe and his wife Mitch Hoppe

DISTRIBUTION INTERNATIONAL DEREK HYDE

Outside Sales Representative d.hyde@distributionintl.com

NEW

537 Stone Rd., Ste. D Benicia, CA 94510 www.distributioninternational.com 800-231-3454

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ASSOCIATE MEMBER HIGHLIGHT | Union Retirement Solutions

SECURE YOUR FUTURE WITH UNION RETIREMENT SOLUTIONS It used to be that people in the U.S. could comfortably

have put off thinking about their financial future until

retire through a combination of a well-funded Social

the last minute.

Security system, corporate pensions with retiree health benefits and a healthy savings account. But today,

“We deal with a lot of people who come to us as they’re

employer-sponsored contribution plans like a 401(k) have

looking to retire in the next six months to one year. We

become the norm rather than the defined benefit plans

can certainly help, but there are things that can and

of the past.

should be done 10 years before or more,” said Jenny Skidmore, Chief Operating Officer of Union Retirement Solutions. “For example, the earlier you can lock in Additionally, a longer life

health insurance, the better off you’re going to be. Long

expectancy (hovering

term care is a big issue today, and if you wait until you

around age 85, according

retire to set it up, it’s going to cost you a small fortune.”

to the Social Security Administration) is

Founded by Jeffrey Skidmore, Union Retirement

challenging today’s

Solutions offers a comprehensive approach to

retirees to find more

help Bay Area SMACNA members and employees

ways to supplement

maximize every stage of their retirement. From wealth

and support their desired

accumulation to wealth transfer with estate planning,

lifestyle for an additional 20+

they specialize in a variety of solutions designed for

years. On top of that, all too many

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security in retirement.

can help people retire and prepare for those important years ahead,” Jenny said. “We’ve been union endorsed for more than 20 years, so we’re pretty well known and trusted within the union brotherhood.”

Union Retirement Solutions offers services in the following areas:

“

The foundation is really the estate plan. Jeff likes to say you don’t want to build your house on shaky ground, so build that foundation first to make sure your family’s going to be taken care of.

JENNY SKIDMORE Union Retirement Solutions Chief Operating Officer

GROWTH: Preparing for retirement by putting your hard-earned assets to work, including retirement income strategies, annuities, investments and IRA/401(k) rollovers.

PRESERVATION: Protecting the assets that can help you live the retirement you’ve dreamed of through asset protection strategies, life insurance, tax-efficient strategies and long-term care strategies.

GIVING: Providing for the people and causes you care about through legacy planning, estate planning and trusts.

“

“Whether they’re an employee or a business owner, we

to show their overall financial picture if they stay on their current plan or what it could look like with some tweaks.

“You can run all these different scenarios and visually see all your options, and what your possibilities are,” Jenny said. “It’s one thing to talk about all these numbers but another when you can see that red line and see that you’re going to run out of money when you’re 82, for example. It’s a little bit of work on the front end, but it’s well worth it to get that report in your hands and know where you stand and where we can make changes.”

“The foundation is really the estate plan. Jeff likes to say you don’t want to build your house on shaky ground, so build that foundation first to make sure your family’s going to be taken care of,” Jenny said. “For union members, that estate plan is often something simple — setting up wills, a Power of Attorney, things

To build each client’s personal retirement analysis, you’ll be asked to provide the following information (which will be kept strictly confidential):

everyone should have. Then comes the retirement

1

Budget worksheet

planning, which can be helping members roll over their

2

Paystubs

3

Retirement account statements

4

Social Security statements

5

Pension benefits (if applicable)

retirement account or talking about an income rider that I call ‘mailbox money.’ That check’s going to come every month even if they live until they’re 102, and for a lot of our union guys that’s all they want. It gives them peace of mind that they can outlive the money they’ve worked so hard for.”

As part of their services, Union Retirement Solutions is

Regardless of where you are in your retirement planning journey, Jenny stresses to give yourself plenty of time.

proud to offer a tool called the Retirement Analyzer. This easy-to-use software allows members to plug in their budget, assets, everything; then it’ll run calculations

“The earlier you start planning, the more options you’re going to have,” she said.

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RECAP | WIC Week

WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION ATTENDEES

CELEBRATE NATIONAL WIC WEEK IN MARCH Women in Construction (WIC) Week is a national

•

event that promotes and amplifies the success of

Air Systems, Inc. and Acosta Sheet Metal co-hosted a leadership panel featuring BAS Board members and WIC sponsors Art

women in the construction industry. This year marked

Williams (ASI) and Brian Pyle (Silicon Valley Mechanical),

the 25th annual celebration and took place March 5-11.

along with WIC sponsor Antonia Soler Blasco (Hilti). Kerianne McDermott (Webcor Builders) rounded out the group.

EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE BAY AREA INCLUDED: •

Facilitated by WIC Executive Board member Michelle Acosta, attendees walked away with tips on industry trends, sought-

A time management webinar hosted by Stephane

after leadership attributes and takeaways on how to focus on

McShane. She shared tips on minimizing

what matters.

distractions, setting boundaries and challenged participants to take charge of their productivity and their day.

•

WIC sponsor DMG hosted a food truck and mobile unit product demonstration at 21st Amendment where WIC members networked and learned more about the latest technology and systems changes on the market.

•

•

A tour of the new sheet metal Joint Apprenticeship Training Center in Livermore. Training Coordinator Nate Vennarucci discussed the planning and detail that went into the facility, and what makes it unique and cutting edge for the next generation of sheet metal workers. Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 104 Business Representative Alicia Mijares presented on her experiences and best practices for successful sheet metal apprentices. Participants were excited to discover more about

The 3rd annual hike around Golden Gate Park, complete with colleagues, a few furry friends and

the ever-evolving work structure in the heart of the building,

the traditional stop for pretzels.

custom learning in each classroom.

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the TAB lab and differing HVAC systems and controls used for

WIC | 2023

COPPER SPONSORS

THANK YOU TO OUR 2023 WIC SPONSORS Thank you to our 2023 WIC sponsors who make our educational programs and events possible!

STAINLESS SPONSORS INTERESTED IN BECOMING A WIC SPONSOR? Email contact@wicbayarea.org

ALUMINUM SPONSORS

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EVENT RECAP | Advisory Meetings

REGIONAL ADVISORY MEETINGS Member representatives from our four regions — Oakland, West Bay/San Francisco, Santa Clara and North Bay — met at individual advisory meetings held by Bay Area SMACNA the week of April 17. During each meeting, members discussed industry forecasts, upcoming events and nominations for open Board member seats in their respective regions. Other topics included work hours and projections, the Private Attorney General Act (PAGA) and apprenticeship updates.

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EVENT RECAP | CAL SMACNA CONVENTION

CAL SMACNA CONVENTION More than 100 Bay Area SMACNA members and their families attended the 57th annual CAL SMACNA Convention in Dana Point from April 12-15.

The annual business meeting was wellattended and provided updates on our industry. This year’s top priorities remain in keeping our associations strong, education and finding consistent man hours in areas such as IAQ for public schools and enforcement of the fire code with Fire Life Safety.

Join us in congratulating current Bay Area SMACNA Treasurer Brian Pyle of SVM, who was elected as the CAL SMACNA 2023-2024 Secretary! We also extend a big thank you to Mitch Hoppe for his service this past year as CAL SMACNA President.

THIS YEAR’S CONVENTION FEATURED MOTIVATING SESSIONS ACROSS A RANGE OF TOPICS, INCLUDING: 1

2

3

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Jake Appelman’s “Mastering Succession: 5 Key Points to Successful Succession & Ownership Transfer” broke attendees into groups, who had insightful conversations about obstacles that get in the way of succession planning and ways to overcome them.

Nick Espinosa’s workshop on the future of business security highlighted the evolution of cybersecurity and the challenges businesses face regarding cybersecurity, employment and growth strategies.

Keynote speaker Steve Rizzo’s “Motivate This! How to Start Each Day with an Unstoppable Attitude to Succeed Regardless of Your Circumstances” combined humor with mind-altering strategies to elevate your motivation. The overall theme was that you’re the creator of your success and happiness. Your attitude and thoughts contribute to the actions you take and the outcome of any challenge you face. Shifting your focus to the positive helps create an attitude of gratitude. He ended with telling attendees to never put your happiness on hold, but rather be happy with where you are.

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EVENT RECAP | CAL SMACNA Convention

BRIAN PYLE JOINS CAL SMACNA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Join us in congratulating Brian Pyle, COO at Silicon Valley Mechanical, on being elected the 2023-2024 secretary of CAL SMACNA! Brian, a California Professional Engineer, brings with him 27 years of industry experience. In addition to serving on the CAL SMACNA Board since 2018, he’s also a current member of the Bay Area SMACNA Board of Directors.

During his tenure on the CAL SMACNA Executive Committee, Brian would like to see the board tackle recruitment into the skilled trades as a whole.

“Many high school students no longer have access to shop or other classes where they’re given the opportunity to work with their hands and get an introduction to all the roles available in the trades,” he said. “As a statewide Board, we can use our collective voices to both better publicize the trades with young people, and work with our state legislators to make these education opportunities standard in California again.”

Brian also hopes to “continue to expand connections with our local and state legislators to ensure that our industry voice is well represented in Sacramento.”

We look forward to supporting Brian in his new role as he continues to advance and elevate the sheet metal industry.

EVENT | July 17

SCHOLARSHIP TRUST GOLF TOURNAMENT More than a great networking and social event, the annual Scholarship Trust Golf Tournament is a worthy fundraiser to help students meet the demands of a higher education through tuition and book scholarships.

Last year’s tournament raised enough funds to support 38 scholarship recipients! We’re currently putting together sponsorship opportunities for this year’s event, set for July 17 at the Castlewood Country Club.

Sponsorship and registration details for the 2023 Scholarship Trust Golf Tournament will be emailed soon.

JULY

17

?

JULY 17 Castlewood Country Club Pleasanton, California

QUESTIONS? Email Vickie at

vconstantinides@bayareasmacna.org

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EVENT RECAP | CAL SMACNA Convention

2022 SAFETY AWARD RECIPIENTS

Congratulations to the 25 companies that qualified for CAL SMACNA’s Safety Awards with their excellent safety records!

Marelich Mechanical, Inc. was also recognized with the best safety record in the 100,001+ category of manhours worked.

100,001 AND OVER MANHOURS A.O. REED & CO. ACCO ENGINEERED SYSTEMS AGC, INC. AIRCO MECHANICAL ANDERSON SYSTEMS BELL PRODUCTS, INC. CALIFORNIA SHEET METAL WORKS, INC. CHAMPION INDUSTRIAL CONTRACTORS, INC. CONTROL AIR ENTERPRISES LLC COUTS HEATING & COOLING, INC. CRITCHFIELD MECHANICAL, INC. OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EBERHARD MARELICH MECHANICAL MARINA MECHANICAL MATRIX HG, INC. MONTEREY MECHANICAL COMPANY MURRAY COMPANY NEW ENGLAND SHEET METAL AND MECHANICAL CO. RAM MECHANICAL, INC. SILICON VALLEY MECHANICAL, INC. SUPERIOR DUCT FABRICATION THERMALAIR, INC. UNIVERSITY MECHANICAL & ENGINEERING CONTRACTORS, INC. WESTERN ALLIED CORPORATION XCEL MECHANICAL SYSTEMS, INC.

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EVENT RECAP | CAL SMACNA Convention

BOBBY BRAMLETT RECEIVES THE 2023 CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM CAL SMACNA Congratulations to Bobby Bramlett, Aire Sheet Metal, who is the 2023 recipient of the Edward Banks Memorial Award for Contractor of the Year!

This prestigious honor is awarded to a member who participates at every available opportunity, while providing leadership and a willingness to be a team player when a situation calls for collective action.

Ed truly believed in the value of association membership and the benefits to be derived from it. He never said no when his participation was needed. His example stands as a model for present and future members, and it is with this in mind that the Ed Banks Memorial Award was established by CAL SMACNA. Bobby certainly exemplifies those qualities, having served on the Bay Area SMACNA Board of

Directors since 2015, along with a number of other committees throughout his years of service to the industry.

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EVENT RECAP | CAL SMACNA

ADVISORY GETAWAY RECAP The 2023 Advisory Getaway in Lake Tahoe drew a

from SMACNA National gave updates on new standards

total of 45 members, with many attending for the first

and tech papers that will come out later this year. Some

time. Introductions were insightful with a snapshot

highlights include the standards for Fire Life Safety on

of where we currently are with market conditions.

Chris Walker of CAL SMACNA welcomed Brian

inspections and codes that help with the current legislation.

He was also excited to announce two new mobile apps: a duct layer app and an industrial duct sizing app. Both will

Pyle to the CAL SMACNA Board, then gave updates

be showcased during October’s Annual Convention. A

on all the current legislation that will affect our

new online software program will also be available when

contractors. He stated that this year has seen the largest turnover in Sacramento, and therefore we’re seeing a record number of bills introduced with labor codes. They’re following these bills and working on a campaign to put a hold on them. CAL SMACNA will roll out a website in the coming months with information on pausing the legislation

members log in. It can be found by visiting : www.smacna.org/apps/apps-tools Sean O’Donoghue gave updates on the new CBA that will be rolled out both electronically and in print. He also updated the membership on PAGA, return to work and the new

for contractors and other small businesses.

Bay Area SMACNA office in Pleasanton. Paul Irwin gave

Walker also touched on the Fire Life Safety

Construction, thanked their sponsors. The meeting ended

legislation that will lead to consistent work for our

with area nominations for our open Board positions and the

contractors, stressing the importance of having

Lonnie Michael Award, which will all be announced at the

certified techs for when that happens. Eli Howard

annual dinner in November.

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apprenticeship updates, and our Mission Partner, Women in

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APPRENTICES | Technology

MEET DUSTY THE ROBOT From drones and 3D printing to virtual and augmented reality (VR/ AR), the future of construction is already here. Now, Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 104 and the Bay Industry Training Fund are excited to introduce today’s cutting-edge technology to the training curriculum — Dusty, an autonomous robot designed for full-scale floor layout.

Although it looks like a rugged Roomba, this end-to-

awareness on current technologies to make members

end solution from Dusty Robotics packs a big punch.

more efficient and thus more valuable to contractors,”

In the first quarter of 2022 alone, Dusty’s FieldPrinter

said Nate Vennarucci, Local 104 Training Coordinator.

solutions laid out more than 25 million square feet on

“This technology is not limited to just the Dusty Robotics

the floors of buildings — and their adoption has only

FieldPrinter, but includes advanced training in Revit, field

become more widespread since then. In the Bay Area,

scanning, field layout and installation of systems. This will

the Local 104 JATC has become the first apprenticeship

benefit the industry overall as our trainings will provide

program in the nation to offer a robust pilot program

a skilled and qualified workforce who can accurately and

to train apprentices and journeypersons on the setup,

safely operate the equipment used on the jobsite.”

dismantling, operation and troubleshooting capabilities of the printer. Classes began April 15.

Underscoring the interest and demand for new technology, the first few classes have been completely

“Establishing classes for the Dusty Robotics system

full. According to Vennarucci, the JATC plans to continue

shows how the JATC continually looks to advance

building new classes on a monthly basis and will populate

25 | BAY AREA SMACNA Second Edition 2023

Clients across the country are using Dusty in the field to save on rework and become more efficient. A few notable projects include the Los Angeles International Airport, California’s Wildlife Heritage Museum and Prism Apartments in San Francisco.

them through SMW104Training.org as they’re scheduled. field to save on rework and become more efficient. A few Completed classes will fulfill the certification process notable projects include the Los Angeles International recognized by the Dusty Robotics company.

Airport, California’s Wildlife Heritage Museum and The software powering the Prism Apartments in San Dusty FieldPrinter can begin Francisco. with a 3D design, or you can Establishing classes for the Dusty create a robot-ready 2D CAD “Construction technologies Robotics system shows how with all necessary printable will remain evolving to the JATC continually looks information in layers. Next further advance jobsite to advance awareness on comes locations of surveyorproductivity. Staying up current technologies to make established controls points to date and current with members more efficient and thus in CSV format. Once the the operation of these more valuable to contractors. operator, who has full control technologies is paramount NATE VENNARUCCI through the tablet interface, in capturing the work Local 104 Training Coordinator directs Dusty to print, the associated with these robot completes the task. As tools,” Vennarucci said. the final step, Dusty’s report “It also provides a benefit generator provides the operator with a digital report of to our contractors because it will ensure maximizing the completed work and productivity rates. on the efficiencies the technology provides through

“

“

Already, clients across the country are using Dusty in the

training.”

CUTTING

EDGE MEMBER NEWSLETTER

APPRENTICES | 2022 Evaluations

2022 APPRENTICESHIP EVALUATIONS

CONGRATS TO ALL BAS CONTRACTORS WITH 100% COMPLETION!

The key to developing the next generation of sheet metal workers is on-the-job training, a targeted curriculum and consistent feedback on performance. Each contractor’s obligation and role in providing authentic evaluations on apprentice performance is both necessary to the apprentice’s career growth and is required by the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards. In addition, apprentices who receive high marks may qualify for the Training Coordinator’s List, enabling them to customize their 5th year class selection.

AAERO HEATING, INC.

AIR SYSTEMS SERVICE & CONSTRUCTION (FORMERLY AIR ACCEL AIR SYSTEMS, INC. (BUILDING AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS) SYSTEMS OF SACRAMENTO) AIRE SHEET METAL, INC. ACCO ENGINEERED SYSTEMS ACCO ENGINEERED SYSTEMS (DBA: GEO H. WILSON)

AIRTEC SERVICE

ACOSTA SHEET METAL

ALL TEMPERATURE SERVICE AIR CONDITIONING, INC.

AGC, INC.

ALLIED HEATING & AIR

27 | BAY AREA SMACNA Second Edition 2023

CONDITIONING CO., INC. ALPHA AIR BALANCING AGENCY, INC. ALPINE MECHANICAL SERVICE COMP. ANDERSON, ROWE & BUCKLEY INC. APEX MECHANICAL, INC. AUTOMATED SOLUTIONS GROUP AXIS MECHANICAL INC

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING BAS CONTRACTORS WHO COMPLETED 100% OF THEIR 2022 APPRENTICESHIP EVALUATIONS! BAY CITY MECHANICAL INC.

FLANDERS HEAT & AIR SYSTEMS INC.

SERVICES, INC.

BAY POINT CONTROL, INC. (MARINA MECHANICAL)

FOOTHILL AIR CONDITIONING, INC

NORTHERN SERVICES INC. (NORTHERN SERVICES INC.)

BEL AIR MECHANICAL, INC.

INC. (GROUND LEVEL MECHANICAL) O.C. MCDONALD COMPANY, INC. HEATHORN & ASSOCIATES OCEAN PARK MECHANICAL, INC.

BELL PRODUCTS, INC. BEST ROOFING & WATERPROOFING

GROUND LEVEL CONSTRUCTION,

OMNI SHEET METAL, INC.

BRADY AIR CONDITIONING, INC.

CONTRACTORS, INC. (DBA: AMERICAN AIR CONDITIONING, PLUMBING & HEATING)

BRADY AIR SERVICE INC.

ICOM MECHANICAL, INC.

PAN-PACIFIC MECHANICAL

BULLARD’S HEATING & AIR INC.

INFINITY MECHANICAL INC.

PARAGON MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS INC.

CALIFORNIA UNITED MECHANICAL, INC. (UNITED MECHANICAL, INC.)

INNOVATIVE MECHANICAL, INC.

PETERSON MECHANICAL, INC.

JEFFCO CUSTOM METALS, INC.

CARTER AIR BALANCE (CONGI, INC.)

JMS MECHANICAL, INC.

QUALTECH MECHANICAL, INC.

BLOCKA CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.

CLINTON HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. KEL AIRE HEATING, INC. CM&B, INC. KINETIC SYSTEMS, INC. (DBA: MAUCK SHEET METAL) KT MECHANICAL, INC.

PACIFIC TEST & BALANCE, INC.

R & T HEATING & SHEET METAL (DBA: COMFORT CONTROL) RJ MECHANICAL, INC. RODRIGUEZ SHEET METAL

COLD CRAFT, INC.

(RICHARD DENTON MECHANICAL)

COMFORT AIR, INC.

LEFCO, INC.

RS ANALYSIS, INC.

COMFORT DYNAMICS, INC.

M.T.B. INCORPORATED

SILICON VALLEY MECHANICAL

CONTROL AIR ENTERPRISES LLC

MARELICH MECHANICAL, INC.

CORE CONSTRUCTION BUILDERS & ASSOCIATES INC.

MARINA MECHANICAL

SIMPSON SHEET METAL, INC. (SIMPSON HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING)

CROWN SHEET METAL & SKYLIGHTS, INC. D & L DELLA MORA HTG.

MARTINEZ SHEET METAL, INC. MATRIX HG, INC.

DEBELLA MECHANICAL, INC.

MILESTONE CONTRACTORS, INC. (DBA: N.V. HEATHORN CO.)

DEPENDABLE SHEET METAL (DBA: DEPENDABLE HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING)

MONARCH MECHANICAL (OWR MECHANICAL, INC.)

DOWDLE & SONS MECHANICAL, INC. DOWNING HEATING INC. ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS, INC. FAIRVIEW HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING FAMAND INC. (INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES)

SMITH MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING SOUTHLAND INDUSTRIES STANDARD SHEET METAL THERMA LLC

MONTEREY MECHANICAL COMPANY (CONTRA COSTA METAL FAB)

THERMAL MECHANICAL, INC.

MURRAY PLUMBING & HEATING CORPORATION (MURRAY COMPANY)

VAN MULDER SHEET METAL, INC.

NATIONAL AIR BALANCE COMPANY

WESTCAL DESIGN & BUILD, INC

NORTH BAY COMMERCIAL

WESTERN ALLIED MECHANICAL, INC.

VAL’S PLUMBING & HEATING WCASM, INC. (WEST COAST ASM)

CUTTING

EDGE MEMBER NEWSLETTER

APPRENTICES | Hiring

NAME HIRING PRE-APPRENTICES & APPRENTICES The Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 104 and Bay Area Industry Training Fund (JATC) endeavors to have skilled and qualified apprentices available for dispatch to meet current and future industry requirements. When needed, the union office contacts eligible applicants (in order of application) to offer employment to individuals seeking opportunities as a pre-apprentice.

Per the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the Local 104 District 1 dispatch offices allot every other application “slot” for specific name hires. Employers can name-call pre-apprentices from the out-of-work list as long as they alternate their selection chronologically on a one-on-one basis. The first selection can be by the employer.

29 | BAY AREA SMACNA Second Edition 2023

Contractors are also able to request a specific person from any source as a building trade sheet metal pre-apprentice in Local 104 District 1 providing the following primary criteria are met: •

Over 48 hours have passed without the dispatch request being filled and the Local 104 office has allotted every other slot for name hires.

•

Contractors have the required ratio of journeyworkers and apprentices per the CBA

•

The named pre-apprentice will become an eligible applicant for the apprenticeship program within one year of their dispatch to the employer

TAB & Service Hiring

To meet the unique needs of TAB and Service, Local 104 representatives and the JATC endeavors to assist in recruiting through other methods such as targeted recruiting and organizing. TAB and Service employers are also eligible per the CBA to sponsor candidates for apprenticeship positions, as long as an excessive number of apprentices are not on the out-of-work list.

Local 104 District 1 Ratios Examples: BUILDING TRADES SHEET METAL JOURNEYPERSON(S)

APPRENTICE(S)

PRE-APPRENTICE

FIRST JOURNEYPERSON

FIRST APPRENTICE

0

THEREAFTER 1-4

1

1

5-8

2

2

BT SERVICE OR TAB 1

1

For more specific details on the apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship program, reference the Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association Local 104 and Bay Area Association of SMACNA CBA, The Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 104 and JATC’s apprenticeship policies or contact Kathy de Jong for more information.

APPRENTICES | Internships

SUMMER INTERNSHIPS OFFER EXPERIENCE IN THE TRADES Every summer, contractors hire interns to recruit and engage top talent for the future, fill in for busy peak seasons and evaluate candidates for their fit and potential within their organization. It’s exciting to see how many interns have grown through the ranks of their respective companies and made a difference in our industry.

In addition to hiring project engineers, accounting professionals or operations roles, contractors often want to give exposure and experience to students for trades positions. Bay Area SMACNA is pleased to have another MOU* with Sheet Metal Workers Local 104 District 1 for a 2023 summer internship program for roles in the field and shop. These interns must be paid a minimum of $20 per hour and are required to attend a BAS Intern Training Day. Intern Training Day has been hosted by many of our contractors through the years. In 2022, more than 30 professional and trades interns attended a successful event at United Mechanical for a job walk, industry orientation, shop tour and lunch. Save the date for this year’s Intern Training Day on July 26. Details are forthcoming.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR MOU Contact kdejong@bayareasmacna.org or kavila@byareasmacna.org

2023 BAY AREA SMACNA OFFICERS

Keith Atteberry

Duane Davies

Bobby Bramlett

President

Vice President

First Vice President

Marelich Mechanical

NABCO

Aire Sheet Metal

Brian Pyle

Sean Greenwood Secretary

Rich Buckley

Critchfield Mechanical

Anderson, Rowe & Buckley

Treasurer Silicon Valley Mechanical

Past President

2023 TRUSTEES & DIRECTORS Michelle Acosta

Yindy Felkins

Mike Pence

Acosta Sheet Metal

Western Allied Mechanical

Control Air Enterprises, LLC

Randy Attaway

Mike Fisher

Gregg Perry

AGC, Inc.

Therma

Air Systems Service & Construction

John Bagot

Dave Foster

Vijay Singh

A.I.M. Sheet Metal, Inc.

Martinez Sheet Metal, Inc.

ICOM

Leonard Bertolami

Mitch Hoppe

Paul Steckel

United Mechanical, Inc.

Melrose Metal Products, Inc.

Van-Mulder Sheet Metal, Inc.

Paul De Bella

Paul Irwin

Bob Tuck

De Bella Mechanical

Bell Products, Inc.

Atlas Heating and Air Conditioning

Don Dennehy, Jr.

Larry Jimenez

Doug Ulrich

Crown Sheet Metal & Skylight, Inc.

ACCO Engineering

Burlingame Heating

Chris Enfantino

Sargon Michael

Art Williams

Environmental Systems, Inc.

Allied Heating & A/C

Air Systems, Inc.

Mark Napier Southland Industries

BAY AREA SMACNA 6689 Owens Dr., Ste. 200 | Pleasanton, CA 94588 TEL: 510-635-8212 | FAX: 510-635-0320 www.BayAreaSMACNA.org