Bay Area SMACNA Newsletter 2nd Edition 2023

Pages 5-6

Page 3

Pages 17-22

Pages 25-26

CAL SMACNA CONVENTION RECAP

LOCAL 104 PENSIONER RETURN TO WORK

MEET DUSTY ROBOT

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT: KELAIRE

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 the Bay Area. I’m happy to report that turnout was exceptional this year with a great exchange of ideas and information at every session. It’s energizing to see everyone participating, as these meetings are 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.

Keith Atteberry PRESIDENT

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!

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

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

Pensioners must be over age 55 and:

• Have been eligible for at least 60 days of pension benefits

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.

• 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

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.

FIRE LIFE SAFETY DEMO: SAFETY AND RECERTIFICATION

On March 2, Duane Davies, CEO of NABCO, Chris Walker of CAL SMANCA, Dion Abril of Western States, Chris Ruch of NEMI and Local 104 employees continued their exhibition presentation on the importance of Fire Life Safety training at the Local 104 Santa Clara JATC. The group utilized the portable training module built to demonstrate how a vestibule and stairwell should protect building occupants in the event of an emergency.

Their investment of time and materials reinforces the need for the skilled and trained workforce of Local 104

and other union sheet metal/TAB professionals to perform work that helps save lives and ensures all existing buildings continue to meet the proper code requirements. CAL SMACNA is pushing for legislation on the current code requirements to call for only union contractors to perform the work. However, we need to have enough certified people to support the work that will become available. Contractors are encouraged to learn more about early training opportunities so that when legislation is approved, our contractors will be ready. Please check with your local JATC coordinator to set up the training.

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.

“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 burning to create heat, there is a simple transfer of heat. While some of their energy comes from electricity or other high-grade energy sources, most of it comes from the outside environment, making them a nice solution for going green.

In addition to heat pumps, Kel-Aire offers ductless split and full duct air conditioning, customized HVAC specialties (such as humidification), traditional furnaces and maintenance services.

As Kel-Aire celebrates 50 years in business this year, Baldwin reflects on the happy clients who have 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.

“Communication is 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 and his team went above and beyond to keep this job affordable, as well as completed properly.”

When asked how he got into the HVAC industry, Baldwin will tell you it was a complete accident. As a young man, he was working at a warehouse next to a sheet metal

shop and they asked him to try it out. He took them up on their offer, got an apprenticeship and eventually got into the administration and sales side of the business. When the previous owner retired, Baldwin was asked to take over and the rest was history. Perhaps it was an accident or perhaps more related to fate.

“Heating and cooling were the farthest thing from my brain, but it was one of those happy accidents as I cannot imagine any other path!” he said.

Still a family-run business after 50 years, Baldwin is proud to work with his wife and son (a new college graduate who recently joined the team) but 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.”

For the last five decades and the foreseeable future, Kel-Aire looks to continue to provide honest and thorough service to its customers and greater community. Being SMACNA members since 1989 has played a large role in connections, education and resources that the Kel-Aire team finds invaluable.

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

“

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.

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

WE’VE MOVED! A NEW SPACE TO BETTER SERVE OUR MEMBERS

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 training room!

SECURE YOUR FUTURE WITH UNION RETIREMENT SOLUTIONS

It used to be that people in the U.S. could comfortably retire through a combination of a well-funded Social Security system, corporate pensions with retiree health benefits and a healthy savings account. But today, employer-sponsored contribution plans like a 401(k) have become the norm rather than the defined benefit plans of the past.

Additionally, a longer life expectancy (hovering around age 85, according to the Social Security Administration) is challenging today’s retirees to find more ways to supplement and support their desired lifestyle for an additional 20+ years. On top of that, all too many

have put off thinking about their financial future until the last minute.

“We deal with a lot of people who come to us as they’re looking to retire in the next six months to one year. We can certainly help, but there are things that can and 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 health insurance, the better off you’re going to be. Long term care is a big issue today, and if you wait until you retire to set it up, it’s going to cost you a small fortune.”

Founded by Jeffrey Skidmore, Union Retirement Solutions offers a comprehensive approach to help Bay Area SMACNA members and employees maximize every stage of their retirement. From wealth accumulation to wealth transfer with estate planning, they specialize in a variety of solutions designed for security in retirement.

ASSOCIATE MEMBER HIGHLIGHT | Union Retirement Solutions

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

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.

“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 everyone should have. Then comes the retirement planning, which can be helping members roll over their 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 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

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.”

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

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

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

Budget worksheet

Paystubs

Retirement account statements

Social Security statements

Pension benefits (if applicable)

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

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 women in the construction industry. This year marked the 25th annual celebration and took place March 5-11.

EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE BAY AREA INCLUDED:

• A time management webinar hosted by Stephane McShane. She shared tips on minimizing 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.

• The 3rd annual hike around Golden Gate Park, complete with colleagues, a few furry friends and the traditional stop for pretzels.

• Air Systems, Inc. and Acosta Sheet Metal co-hosted a leadership panel featuring BAS Board members and WIC sponsors Art Williams (ASI) and Brian Pyle (Silicon Valley Mechanical), along with WIC sponsor Antonia Soler Blasco (Hilti). Kerianne McDermott (Webcor Builders) rounded out the group. Facilitated by WIC Executive Board member Michelle Acosta, attendees walked away with tips on industry trends, soughtafter leadership attributes and takeaways on how to focus on what matters.

• 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 ever-evolving work structure in the heart of the building, the TAB lab and differing HVAC systems and controls used for custom learning in each classroom.

COPPER SPONSORS

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.

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:

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.

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

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.

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

EVENT RECAP | CAL SMACNA

ADVISORY GETAWAY RECAP

The 2023 Advisory Getaway in Lake Tahoe drew a total of 45 members, with many attending for the first time. Introductions were insightful with a snapshot of where we currently are with market conditions.

Chris Walker of CAL SMACNA welcomed Brian Pyle to the CAL SMACNA Board, then gave updates on all the current legislation that will affect our 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 for contractors and other small businesses.

Walker also touched on the Fire Life Safety legislation that will lead to consistent work for our contractors, stressing the importance of having certified techs for when that happens. Eli Howard

from SMACNA National gave updates on new standards and tech papers that will come out later this year. Some highlights include the standards for Fire Life Safety on 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 be showcased during October’s Annual Convention. A new online software program will also be available when 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 Bay Area SMACNA office in Pleasanton. Paul Irwin gave apprenticeship updates, and our Mission Partner, Women in Construction, thanked their sponsors. The meeting ended with area nominations for our open Board positions and the Lonnie Michael Award, which will all be announced at the annual dinner in November.

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-toend solution from Dusty Robotics packs a big punch. In the first quarter of 2022 alone, Dusty’s FieldPrinter solutions laid out more than 25 million square feet on the floors of buildings — and their adoption has only become more widespread since then. In the Bay Area, the Local 104 JATC has become the first apprenticeship program in the nation to offer a robust pilot program to train apprentices and journeypersons on the setup, dismantling, operation and troubleshooting capabilities of the printer. Classes began April 15.

“Establishing classes for the Dusty Robotics system shows how the JATC continually looks to advance

more efficient and thus more valuable to contractors,” said Nate Vennarucci, Local 104 Training Coordinator. “This technology is not limited to just the Dusty Robotics FieldPrinter, but includes advanced training in Revit, field scanning, field layout and installation of systems. This will benefit the industry overall as our trainings will provide a skilled and qualified workforce who can accurately and safely operate the equipment used on the jobsite.”

Underscoring the interest and demand for new technology, the first few classes have been completely full. According to Vennarucci, the JATC plans to continue building new classes on a monthly basis and will populate

them through SMW104Training.org as they’re scheduled. Completed classes will fulfill the certification process recognized by the Dusty Robotics company. The software powering the Dusty FieldPrinter can begin with a 3D design, or you can create a robot-ready 2D CAD with all necessary printable information in layers. Next comes locations of surveyorestablished controls points in CSV format. Once the operator, who has full control through the tablet interface, directs Dusty to print, the robot completes the task. As the final step, Dusty’s report generator provides the operator with a digital report of the completed work and productivity rates.

Airport, California’s Wildlife Heritage Museum and Prism Apartments in San Francisco.

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.

Establishing classes for the Dusty Robotics system shows how the JATC continually looks to advance awareness on current technologies to make members more efficient and thus more valuable to contractors.

“Construction technologies will remain evolving to further advance jobsite productivity. Staying up to date and current with the operation of these technologies is paramount in capturing the work associated with these tools,” Vennarucci said.

“It also provides a benefit to our contractors because it will ensure maximizing on the efficiencies the technology provides through training.”

Already, clients across the country are using Dusty in the

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

NATE VENNARUCCI Local 104 Training Coordinator

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.

ACCEL AIR SYSTEMS, INC. (BUILDING AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS)

ACCO ENGINEERED SYSTEMS

ACCO ENGINEERED SYSTEMS (DBA: GEO H. WILSON)

ACOSTA SHEET METAL AGC, INC.

AIR SYSTEMS SERVICE & CONSTRUCTION (FORMERLY AIR SYSTEMS OF SACRAMENTO)

AIRE SHEET METAL, INC.

AIRTEC SERVICE

ALL TEMPERATURE SERVICE AIR CONDITIONING, INC.

ALLIED HEATING & AIR

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.

BAY POINT CONTROL, INC.

(MARINA MECHANICAL)

BEL AIR MECHANICAL, INC.

BELL PRODUCTS, INC.

BEST ROOFING & WATERPROOFING

BLOCKA CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.

BRADY AIR CONDITIONING, INC.

BRADY AIR SERVICE INC.

BULLARD’S HEATING & AIR INC.

CALIFORNIA UNITED MECHANICAL, INC.

(UNITED MECHANICAL, INC.)

CARTER AIR BALANCE (CONGI, INC.)

CLINTON HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC.

CM&B, INC.

(DBA: MAUCK SHEET METAL)

COLD CRAFT, INC.

COMFORT AIR, INC.

COMFORT DYNAMICS, INC.

CONTROL AIR ENTERPRISES LLC

CORE CONSTRUCTION BUILDERS & ASSOCIATES INC.

CROWN SHEET METAL & SKYLIGHTS, INC.

D & L DELLA MORA HTG.

DEBELLA MECHANICAL, INC.

DEPENDABLE SHEET METAL

(DBA: DEPENDABLE HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING)

DOWDLE & SONS MECHANICAL, INC.

DOWNING HEATING INC.

ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS, INC.

FAIRVIEW HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

FAMAND INC.

(INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES)

FLANDERS HEAT & AIR SYSTEMS INC.

FOOTHILL AIR CONDITIONING, INC

GROUND LEVEL CONSTRUCTION, INC. (GROUND LEVEL MECHANICAL)

HEATHORN & ASSOCIATES

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

ICOM MECHANICAL, INC.

INFINITY MECHANICAL INC.

INNOVATIVE MECHANICAL, INC.

JEFFCO CUSTOM METALS, INC.

JMS MECHANICAL, INC.

KEL AIRE HEATING, INC.

KINETIC SYSTEMS, INC.

KT MECHANICAL, INC. (RICHARD DENTON MECHANICAL)

LEFCO, INC.

M.T.B. INCORPORATED

MARELICH MECHANICAL, INC.

MARINA MECHANICAL

MARTINEZ SHEET METAL, INC.

MATRIX HG, INC.

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

MONARCH MECHANICAL (OWR MECHANICAL, INC.)

MONTEREY MECHANICAL COMPANY (CONTRA COSTA METAL FAB)

MURRAY PLUMBING & HEATING CORPORATION (MURRAY COMPANY)

NATIONAL AIR BALANCE COMPANY

NORTH BAY COMMERCIAL

SERVICES, INC.

NORTHERN SERVICES INC. (NORTHERN SERVICES INC.)

O.C. MCDONALD COMPANY, INC.

OCEAN PARK MECHANICAL, INC.

OMNI SHEET METAL, INC.

PACIFIC TEST & BALANCE, INC.

PAN-PACIFIC MECHANICAL

PARAGON MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS INC.

PETERSON MECHANICAL, INC.

QUALTECH MECHANICAL, INC.

R & T HEATING & SHEET METAL (DBA: COMFORT CONTROL)

RJ MECHANICAL, INC.

RODRIGUEZ SHEET METAL

RS ANALYSIS, INC.

SILICON VALLEY MECHANICAL

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

SMITH MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING

SOUTHLAND INDUSTRIES

STANDARD SHEET METAL

THERMA LLC

THERMAL MECHANICAL, INC.

VAL’S PLUMBING & HEATING

VAN MULDER SHEET METAL, INC.

WCASM, INC. (WEST COAST ASM)

WESTCAL DESIGN & BUILD, INC

WESTERN ALLIED MECHANICAL, INC.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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