Bay Area SMACNA Cutting Edge 3rd Edition 2025

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

BAY AREA SMACNA’S

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EDGE MEMBER NEWSLETTER | Third Edition | 2025

SCHOLARSHIP TRUST GOLF TOURNAMENT Pages 6-11

BOARD RETREAT

Pages 14-15

MEMBER FEATURE: ACOSTA SHEET METAL MANUFACTURING Pages 16-17

SAVE THE DATE: DECEMBER GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING Page 23

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CUTTING EDGE | Third Edition 2025

IN THIS ISSUE EDUCATION

NEWS & UPDATES 03 PRESIDENT’S REMARKS 18 MEMBER NEWS: BELL PRODUCTS CELEBRATES EIGHT DECADES OF GROWTH 22 MEMBER NEWS: ACCO CELEBRATES NEW OFFICE OPENING

MEMBER FEATURES 04 ASSOCIATE MEMBER FEATURE: GRACE VENTURES 16 MEMBER FEATURE: ACOSTA SHEET METAL MANUFACTURING

13 CLASS RECAP: GROWING AND DEVELOPING FOREMEN TRAINING 23 SAVE THE DATE: CPR CLASS

SAFETY 13 ADR FOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION 20 RECAP: CAL SMACNA SAFETY SEMINAR

APPRENTICES 21 INTERNS GET A GLIMPSE INTO APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING IN ACTION

EVENTS & RECAPS 06 SCHOLARSHIP TRUST GOLF TOURNAMENT 14 RECAP: BOARD RETREAT 21 SAVE THE DATE: 2025 ANNUAL DINNER 23 SAVE THE DATE: DECEMBER GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

LEGISLATIVE 12 PRIVATE WORKS RETENTION LIMITATION 19 HOW NEW TAX REFORMS BENEFIT BAY AREA CONTRACTORS

ATTENTION MEMBERS! Do you have exciting company news you’d like to share with fellow Bay Area SMACNA members?

• High-profile projects

• Company anniversaries

• New product launches

• New hires

• New service offerings

• Celebrating retirees

Your good work and amazing teams deserve to be celebrated, and we want to help spread the news. So submit your news and/or photos to Liz Heaney (lheaney@bayareasmacna.org) and see your company represented in our next association newsletter!

SCAN TO EMAIL LIZ HEANEY Scan to provide news for upcoming newsletters!

PRESIDENT’S REMARKS | Update from Bobby Bramlett

INNOVATION, LEADERSHIP & COLLABORATION: SHAPING TOMORROW, TOGETHER So much has been done this year, yet there is still so much to do!

I would like to start out by extending my sincere gratitude to the members who participated in our recent labor negotiations with SMW Local 104. In my 45 years in this industry, I have learned there is no such thing as a perfect negotiation; for it to be perfect, it would have to be one-sided. The give-and-take and spirit of compromise shown by both our negotiating committee and our partners at Local 104 is a testament to the future we can build together by focusing on what we share in common.

Market share, cost of living, our commitment to excellence and our dedication to the communities where we live and work remain at the core of our mission. There are many challenges ahead and hidden opportunities to “build better.” Most recently, the election of new members who will join our Board of Directors in November gives me great comfort and confidence. Knowing this industry will continue to be guided by fresh ideas and strong leadership is a sign of good things yet to come.

Bobby Bramlett PRESIDENT

bob@airesm.com Tel: 650-451-8141

Please remember we have important work to do together. As a member-driven organization, we value and encourage the voices of all involved. As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead this year, let’s remain open to new ideas and perspectives, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive. By building a culture of continuous learning, we not only grow as individuals but strengthen our entire community.

This fall, we’re excited to once again offer the PM Program as part of our ongoing investment in our people. This is a valuable opportunity to support the growth of our industry’s emerging leaders. In addition to ongoing education, networking plays a crucial role in the development of our association. Mark your calendars for our annual sporting clays event in October and our Annual Dinner and Installation of Officers November 15. We truly hope to see everyone there!

I’m excited about the future we’re creating together. With passion, dedication and collaboration as our guiding principles, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.

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ASSOCIATE MEMBER | Grace Ventures

LEARNING THE TRADE TO CHANGE’ THE GAME: GRACE VENTURES’ TOM KIM ON BUILDING SOFTWARE THAT ACTUALLY WORKS About five years ago, Tom Kim left his job spearheading Amazon’s Data Center Construction program to spend time in the field with mechanical contractors. It was an unconventional move driven by curiosity: Could he build better sales operations software for construction contractors?

The best way to find out was to learn the trade from the inside. Tom spent three years shadowing estimators, project managers and technicians, visiting job sites, supporting estimators, sitting in on bid reviews and learning how projects really come together.

“I realized that if I don’t know what my potential customers go through on a day-to-day basis, if

“

“I saw firsthand how stretched estimators and account managers really are,” Tom says. “They were running behind on bid deadlines, managing active jobs at the same time, and sitting on a backlog of bids and customer followups. What they wanted wasn’t another layer of work — they wanted more time to sell, and a faster, easier way to get bids/quotes out the door.”

We centralized all this data into a single platform so that when contractors have many quotes/bids due in the same week, they can quickly decide which bids are worth going after based on data.

After seeing the

I don’t understand what challenges contractors they do at the core, I will faced, Tom set out to find never be able to build an existing solution that a great product,” Tom could help. He spoke explains. His hands-on with more than two TOM KIM Founder & President experience revealed the dozen companies offering reality many contractors software solutions — from face: overloaded account generic CRM systems that management and estimating teams, heavy administrative weren’t built for contractors, to takeoff focused tools, to work and software that wasn’t designed around their service management software. None of them really fit the needs. Those lessons became the foundation for Grace needs of a contractor working across construction, service Ventures, a sales operations platform built to help and maintenance. Discovering this gap eventually led Tom contractors sell faster, cut down on admin burden, and to start building Grace. focus on the bids/quotes that matter.

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Grace Ventures launched in 2024, focused on helping contractors win more work with less friction. Unlike generic CRMs or takeoff tools that only cover one part of the process, Grace is a sales operations platform purposebuilt for contractors’ holistic sales cycle.

“We want to help contractors put bids/quotes together faster, reduce the admin work that slows them down and give them a clearer picture of which opportunities are most worth pursuing,” Tom explains. “Whether it’s a service, retrofit or new construction project, our goal is to make the sales side of the business simpler.”

What sets Grace apart is how it gets customized to each contractors’ workflows instead of forcing them into rigid software.

“When we work with a contractor, we don’t just hand over a subscription,” Tom says. “We spend time learning how their team works today, and we configure Grace so it fits seamlessly — like a glove.”

Since launching, Grace’s customers have already submitted more than 5,000 bids worth $300 million through the platform — and data shows customers have improved their bid win rates by 18 percent.

Feedback from one of Grace’s early customers, Matrix HG, shows the kind of impact the platform can make. Within their first year using the platform, the Matrix HG team centralized about 4,000 bids that had previously lived in 20 different spreadsheets. That shift minimized missed opportunities, prevented double bidding across branches and cut bid/quote preparation time by 30 percent.

“We centralized all this data into a single platform so that when contractors have many quotes/bids due in the same week, they can quickly decide which bids are worth going after based on data,” Tom says.

The way Grace Ventures works with customers makes it unique in the construction software field.

“We don’t just hand over a product and walk away,” Tom explains. “We spend time learning how each customer prepares their bids and runs sales operations, and then make sure Grace fits into that process.”

This embedded approach means Tom and his team regularly visit customer job sites and offices, ensuring the software truly serves contractors’ needs rather than creating additional burdens.

Looking ahead, Grace is working on what a “Generation Two” platform could mean for contractors. The next step is layering in AI as a virtual assistant to help increase bid output per person, grow sales and take on much of the administrative work that weighs sales teams down.

“It’s still early, but we see a future where Grace not only supports the sales process but actively drives it,” Tom says. “The goal is to give contractors more capacity to sell without adding more people or more hours.”

As a newer Bay Area SMACNA member — joining less than a year ago — Kim sees the association as an important part of the industry ecosystem. Grace Ventures also gives back to the community through regular team volunteering with Milal Mission, a Santa Clara-based non-profit serving individuals with developmental disabilities.

“As I’ve spent time in the field, I’ve come to appreciate just how skilled and complex this trade is,” Tom says. “Software should respect that — it should make the work easier, not harder. At Grace, we know we still have a lot to learn, and our goal is to be a true partner to contractors along the way.”

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EVENT RECAP | Scholarship Trust Golf Tournament

SCHOLARSHIP TRUST GOLF TOURNAMENT: CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF FUNDING FUTURES Each year, there are a variety of different challenges and competitions throughout the course. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

2025 GOLF TOURNAMENT WINNERS 1ST

2

ND

3RD

Critchfield (via card off) Danny Kennison Robert Marsh John Calaghan Sam Byers WICA David Texdahl Craig Rossi

Fernando Martinez Gyse Hulse Bosch

R&S James Cahoon John Davidson

Jeremy Miller Ryan Ainsworth

The 2025 Annual Bay Area SMACNA Scholarship Trust Golf Tournament was a fantastic success, with a turnout of 138 players!

In celebration of our 30th year, we took the opportunity to recognize Chris Walker, CAL SMACNA Executive Vice President, for his outstanding service to the sheet metal industry. His leadership and dedication in the areas of state regulatory and legislative affairs have been instrumental in helping shape policies and drive positive change within the industry, ensuring a stronger and more sustainable future for all.

This event continues to make a meaningful impact by raising funds to provide scholarships for students pursuing their bachelor’s degrees. A huge thank you to all our 2025 sponsors who supported the event, as well as the vendors and volunteers whose contributions were vital in making this event a success. Your generosity, time and effort are deeply appreciated, and we couldn’t have done it without you!

Longest Drive (Men): Brent Hanson

Longest Drive (Women): Michelle Acosta

Closest to the Pin (Men): Kenny Shin, 10 feet 8 inches

Closest to the Pin (Women): Lindsey Rowland, 35 feet

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THANK YOU 2023 GOLF TOURNAMENT SPONSORS! WE’RE INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT!

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S BAY AREA SMACNA SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS! Bay Area SMACNA is proud to announce the following

2025 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS! Evan Ansgarius Dylan Boyd Michelle Cazarin Katerina Constantinides Tanner Davies Kendall England Claire Friedrich Olivia Hardesty Grace Heaney Jack Hirst Jewlianna Langston Cooper Matthies

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Harun Momin Isabel Morrow Gabriella Nurisso Diego Pena Hanna Schlegel Gabriella Selsor Maggie Sieferman Samreet Sran Alex Stauling Ryan Williams Juliana Yang

THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 GOLF TOURNAMENT SPONSORS EAGLE SPONSORS

PAR SPONSORS

ACCO Engineered Systems

Allied Mechanical

Axis Mechanical Inc.

Bay City Mechanical

Critchfield Mechanical

Bell Products, Inc.

Southland Industries

Benesys

BIRDIE SPONSORS

Broadway Mechanical Contracters BHA

Silicon Valley Mechanical, Inc.

Ductmate Green Products

TEM, Total Environmental Management

Insperity

United Mechanical, Inc.

Milwaukee Tools National Air Balance

BOGIE SPONSORS

Siemens

ClickSafety

Simpson Sheet Metal

Stratus

SMART Local 104 T & A Air Supply, Inc.

DINNER SPONSOR Johns Mansville

FLAG SPONSORS Monterey Mechanical

HOLE-IN-ONE SPONSORS Mestek Machinery

SNACK SPONSORS Gow Supply Company

Western Insulation Contractors Association Withium

TEE SPONSORS Crown Sheet Metal & Skylights, Inc. Enterprise Fleet Management Logoboss Kaiser Permanente Pribuss Engineering, Inc. Provident Credit Union

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LEGISLATIVE | Private Works Retention Limitation

NEW CALIFORNIA LAW LIMITS RETENTION ON PRIVATE WORKS On July 14, Governor Newsom signed into law SB 61 (Cortese). This legislation, co-sponsored by CAL SMACNA, establishes a 5% cap on retention in private works. Effective January 1, 2026, this cap will apply to all nonresidential contracts.

WHY IT MATTERS This important measure addresses longstanding challenges in California’s construction industry by: • Preventing excessive retention practices that force contractors to finance projects indefinitely • Improving cash flow for contractors of all sizes • Reducing unnecessary costs in California construction • Creating more equitable and efficient payment practices CAL SMACNA is proud to continue supporting and advancing legislation that strengthens efficiency, cost-effectiveness and fairness across the industry.

ON THE HORIZON: CALIFORNIA ASSEMBLY BILL 1331 While we celebrate SB 61’s success, we’re also keeping a close eye on AB 1331 (Workplace Surveillance), which was moved to the Senate Appropriations Committee’s suspense file on August 18. This is a standard step for bills with significant fiscal impacts. Stay tuned — we’ll continue to monitor and share updates as developments occur. Scan the code to view the bill’s current status and summary.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE Learn more about the upcoming legislation and how it effects you! https://bit.ly/463fRoz

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SAFETY | Workers’ Comp.

EDUCATION | Class Recap

GROWING AND DEVELOPING FOREMEN TRAINING OFFERS PRACTICAL TOOLS In today’s competitive construction market, strong leadership and sharp jobsite management skills are essential. Kevin Dougherty’s targeted training gave foremen and supervisors practical tools to take charge of a project from day one, boost team productivity and communicate confidently with both crews and upper management.

ADR FOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION: A WIN-WIN FOR CONTRACTORS AND EMPLOYEES California legislation allows collectively bargained union contractors to establish Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) programs for their Workers’ Compensation insurance.

The ADR program streamlines the dispute process and ensures: • • •

High-quality medical care for injured workers Access to impartial experts for advice and claims issues Benefits delivered without the delays in the event of litigation

When your current insurance renews, ask your broker to provide a quote for the CAL SMACNA Workers’ Compensation ADR Program (must meet certain eligibility criteria). Alternatively, if your broker does not provide an ADR option, contact EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants to discuss your needs.

3000 EXECUTIVE PARKWAY SUITE 325 SAN RAMON, CA 94583

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EVENT RECAP | 2025 Board Retreat

CONNECTING, PLANNING AND SHAPING THE FUTURE The 2025 Board Retreat drew a strong turnout with 20 board members and special guests Chris Walker (CAL SMACNA), Mike Hilgert (CAL SMACNA President) and Tom Martin (National SMACNA President) in attendance. The event provided a valuable opportunity to reconnect and refocus on the mission and future direction of our association.

Discussions centered on current challenges, long-term goals and strategies to strengthen our collective impact, while reinforcing relationships and our shared commitment to a thriving industry.

NATIONAL SMACNA UPDATE Tom Martin

• 1,600 registered for the upcoming Annual Convention, with many bringing VPs or successors.

• Website improvements include new podcasts and webinars.

• Opportunities in the TAB and AI committees. Contact National for details.

• Expanding the associate member program to add value for members.

• Over 40 educational programs available, including virtual options.

• Eli Howard completed the seismic manual with tutorial videos online and is developing a California-specific version.

• Plans to expand JATC training with virtual reality. Grants are available for upgrades.

• Aiming for stronger collaboration with MCA, as 30-35% of our contractors are MCA members.

CAL SMACNA UPDATE Mike Hilgert and Chris Walker

• Building relationships with lawmakers remains critical, and this year’s efforts have made an impact.

• Save the date: 2026 Day at the Capitol — January 26-27.

• 2026 marks CAL SMACNA’s 60th anniversary. The 60th Convention will be held April 8-11 in Kauai (registration now open), and Brian Pyle will take over as Chapter President.

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• Membership surveys were emailed to update the database — please respond.

• “Hit the Pause Button” campaign refresh coming in 2026.

• CAL SMACNA is now on LinkedIn and Instagram — follow and like.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE • SB 440: Change order reform for private works; awaiting the governor’s approval. We should know by the beginning of October.

• SB 597: Addresses trust fund collection issues.

• SB 1331: Defeated bill; limited workplace surveillance tools.

• SB 682: Defeated bill; A2L refrigerant/HVAC equipment component restrictions.

BAY AREA SMACNA UPDATE • BAS is trending upward financially, according to Mark Napier’s report.

• Sean O’Donoghue shared general updates.

• Nominations are open for the Lonnie Michael Award and the Bay Area SMACNA 2026 Secretary position.

• Paul Irwin and Sheri Learmonth will be representing Bay Area SMACNA at the Upcoming Western States Convention.

• Local 104 provided Duct Cleaning and Multi-Family Project updates.

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MEMBER FEATURE | Acosta Sheet Metal Manufacturing

ACOSTA MANUFACTURING: A TRADITION OF QUALITY, INNOVATION AND FAMILY VALUES For more than 50 years, Acosta Sheet Metal Manufacturing (Acosta Mfg.) has built a hard-earned reputation for craftsmanship, reliability, and customer service in the San Francisco and Greater Bay Area.

From humble beginnings in a San Jose garage to supplying

“At Acosta Mfg., you aren’t just a number,” said Michelle

high-profile projects like the Tesla Gigafactory, Acosta

Acosta. “We’re a small shop, so we know our customers

Mfg. has grown into a respected leader in custom sheet

and care about them and their projects. We get them

metal fabrication while staying true to its family roots.

their products on time, provide consistent quality and

The company’s story began in 1972, when founder Sal Acosta was ready to pursue a new adventure in sheet metal work. What started

“

offer recommendations. We’re always looking for ways to improve our services and provide the solutions our

At Acosta Mfg., you aren’t just a number. We’re a small shop, so we know our customers and care about them and their projects. We’re always looking for ways to improve our services and provide the solutions our customers need, which is why they keep coming back to us.

customers need, which is why they keep coming back to us.”

SMALL SHOP, BIG IMPACT A proud Bay Area SMACNA moved into its current member since 1992, Acosta headquarters at 930 Mfg.’s team of 35+ employees Remillard Ct. in San Jose. brings decades of industry MICHELLE ACOSTA Over the years, more than a leadership and collaboration dozen family members have to every project. With a full worked for the company, range of HVAC duct and fittings, roofing metals and laser making it a multi-generational family enterprise. Known cutting, the company is equipped to handle customfor his tireless work ethic and “can-do” approach, Sal built fabricated pieces from concept through completion for a company culture centered on integrity, innovation and both commercial and residential applications. customer service. in his garage quickly grew, and by 1996, Acosta Mfg.

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“Whether you’re a homeowner with plans for a metal countertop or a mechanical contractor with a jobsite needing thousands of feet of commercial-grade ductwork, Acosta Mfg. has the capacity to offer a quick turnaround for small and large jobs,” Michelle said. “A proud union shop, our affiliation with the Sheet Metal Workers’ Local Union 104 provides us with the expertise needed to ensure that all our products meet or consistently exceed the highest quality standards.”

Acosta Mfg.’s reputation for precision and reliability has earned it high-profile work, including supplying

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INNOVATION AT WORK Always on the cutting edge, Acosta Mfg. was one of the first shops in the area to adopt laser welding technology.

This advancement has transformed workflow efficiency, reducing turnaround time to an estimated 25% of traditional TIG welding methods. Acosta is pleased to see this commitment to innovation extending beyond the shop floor with Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 104 and the Bay Area Industry Training Fund (JATC) also investing in the equipment needed to train the next generation of welders in laser welding technology.

LOOKING AHEAD more than 500,000 With over five decades of Serving local mechanical pounds of ductwork to experience, Acosta Mfg. contractors daily, we have proven the Tesla Gigafactory in remains firmly rooted in its our value time and time again by Sparks, Nevada — all while values while continuing to putting our clients first and meeting tight deadlines and embrace new opportunities. managing complex out-ofbuilding trust by only promising Certified as a Minority state deliveries. Another what we can actually accomplish.

Business Enterprise (MBE), standout project was with the company reflects both MICHELLE ACOSTA sustainability-focused tech tradition and progress — company 99Bridges, where family-owned, union-strong Acosta Mfg. developed a and diversity-driven. As custom kiosk system enabling shoppers to rent and return they look toward the future, Acosta Mfg. is committed to reusable bags. This innovation not only showcased Acosta’s growing alongside its customers, delivering innovative versatility but also helped 99Bridges earn recognition as an solutions and trusted craftsmanship that will continue to inaugural U.S. Plastics Pact Reuse Catalyst Partner. shape the Bay Area for years to come.

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“Serving local mechanical contractors daily, we have proven our value time and time again by putting our clients first and building trust by only promising what we can actually accomplish,” Michelle said.

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MEMBER NEWS | Bell Products Anniversary

BELL PRODUCTS CELEBRATES EIGHT DECADES OF GROWTH August 22 marked a significant milestone for Bell Products — commemorating 80 years in business and the opening of their new location!

To mark the occasion, current and former employees joined longtime community supporters for an open house honoring the company’s longstanding presence in Napa. Attendees enjoyed a tour of the new offices, food and a photo display featuring employee events through the years highlighting Bell’s history and strong internal culture.

The new facility, designed to support the company’s continued growth and operations, features a history wall showcasing Bell’s legacy and notable projects. During the event, formal remarks were given by Paul Irwin, who reflected on the journey that started with Joe Bell’s vision in 1945. Remarks were also shared by Nadine Witchel, SMACNA CFO, and Jim Lazor of E.B. Ward Co., who offered congratulations on 80 years of service. A certificate of recognition signed

by Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry and Christopher Cabaldon was presented to Irwin, commemorating the anniversary and the company’s contributions to the Napa community.

More than an anniversary, the celebration reflected on past achievements and shared excitement for the years to come.

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LEGISLATIVE | Tax Reforms

HOW NEW TAX REFORMS BENEFIT BAY AREA CONTRACTORS Marking one of the most significant tax overhauls in recent years, President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) has made waves across the construction industry since it was signed into law on July 4 — and for good reason. Packed with tax changes that put more money back into contractors’ pockets, the bill gives Bay Area companies the flexibility to invest, expand and stay competitive in a tough market.

FASTER WRITE-OFFS AND BIGGER DEDUCTIONS One of the biggest wins is the return of 100% bonus depreciation, which lets contractors immediately write off the cost of equipment, vehicles and certain property improvements. On top of that, Section 179 expensing has expanded to $2.5 million.

For contractors in the Bay Area, where capital costs run high, this means faster payback on major purchases and stronger cash flow to keep projects moving.

RELIEF FOR PASS-THROUGHS AND FINANCING Most construction firms are structured as pass-throughs, so making the 20% Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction permanent is a major benefit. It locks in predictable tax savings for owners year after year. The bill also restores a more favorable formula for deducting interest expenses, making it easier to finance equipment or big-ticket projects without taking a tax hit.

INCENTIVES FOR INNOVATION AND EFFICIENCY California is known for pushing the envelope with technology and green building. The OBBB supports that by bringing back immediate expensing of R&D costs, so dollars invested in new methods or sustainable materials pay off faster. The 179D deduction for energy-efficient upgrades also remains in place, rewarding contractors working on high-efficiency HVAC, lighting and building envelopes.

MORE STABILITY, MORE CONFIDENCE Just as important, the bill brings certainty. Many temporary tax provisions are now locked in, meaning contractors can plan long-term projects — like large commercial builds — with confidence that the rules won’t change halfway through.

THE BOTTOM LINE The Bay Area still faces challenges: labor shortages, high material costs and regulatory hurdles. But the OBBB gives contractors real tools to stay ahead, including stronger cash flow, permanent tax savings and incentives to innovate.

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EVENT RECAP | September 18

CAL SMACNA SAFETY SEMINAR HIGHLIGHTS KEY OSHA & CAL/ OSHA UPDATES Cal SMACNA hosted its annual Safety Seminar on September 18 at the Bay Area SMACNA office, drawing representatives from more than 20 contractor firms.

Led by Steve Bowers, CSP, CIT, the session covered key updates from OSHA and Cal/OSHA. Among the most significant changes is the revised walk-around inspection rule, which now allows non-employees —such as union representatives — to accompany OSHA compliance officers during workplace inspections. The move has drawn criticism from those who argue OSHA has overstepped its authority.

Cal/OSHA is also advancing workplace violence prevention regulations. A revised draft released in May 2025 includes provisions that let employees report concerns to anyone (not just supervisors) and removes a previous ban on confronting individuals engaged in workplace theft. Employers are now encouraged to train staff on loss-control practices. New indoor heat illness prevention rules were also proposed in May 2025, requiring employers to provide cold drinking water, designate cool-down areas and actively manage employee heat exposure.

Additionally, Cal/OSHA proposed lowering the residential construction fall protection threshold from 7.5 feet to 6 feet to align with federal OSHA standards, ensuring consistency and stricter enforcement. Across the board, OSHA is increasing penalties for safety violations, signaling a stronger emphasis on enforcement, with major updates expected

by December 2025.

Bowers also noted the continued value of professional safety certifications like CSP and CIH, which are often linked to higher compensation and leadership opportunities in environmental health and safety roles.

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RECAP | Intern Training

INTERNS GET A GLIMPSE INTO APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING IN ACTION This year’s interns were treated to a tour of the Livermore JATC’s state-of-the-art facilities, where they explored the latest technological advancements and diverse career paths available within the industry.

They also were able to experience the VR welder, which offered a cutting-edge and immersive learning experience.

With classes in session, interns had the opportunity to observe apprentices actively working on various projects.

The day wrapped up with lunch and a Q&A session with Sean O’Donoghue, who generously shared valuable insights and advice, inspiring the interns to pursue their own journeys with passion and commitment.

SAVE THE DATE | November 15

2025 ANNUAL DINNER Save the date for our Annual Dinner & Installation of Officers, set for Saturday, November 15. Enjoy an evening celebrating our association’s achievements, welcoming new leadership and connecting with fellow members. Formal invitations will follow with more details, but mark your calendars now for a memorable event!

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NOVEMBER 15, 2025

The Meritage Resort & Spa 875 Bordeaux Way Napa, CA 94558

STAY IN THE KNOW! Check our website for the latest events, classes, and training opportunities.

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MEMBER NEWS | ACCO

ACCO CELEBRATES NEW OFFICE OPENING, EXPANDS SHOP SPACE IN BAY AREA The new Pleasanton office has become the central hub for Bay Area ACCO employees, marking an expansion of their offices in San Leandro, San Francisco, Concord and San Jose. On May 22, 250 employees moved in, with additional space to accommodate 50 more.

The spacious facility was designed to foster collaboration and innovation, offering state-of-the-art amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. From huddle and focus rooms to conference spaces and break areas, the new office provides environments that support both teamwork and individual productivity.

Located down the street from the Bay Area SMACNA office, this new location continues ACCO’s longstanding presence in the Bay Area. The first branch opened in Burlingame in 1972, followed by a move to San Carlos in 1984. The Concord office was established in 1991, followed by an expanded presence to San Leandro in 2003.

Bay Area SMACNA congratulates the team on this exciting new chapter and looks forward to their continued success in serving employees, clients and the community!

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SAVE THE DATE | December 12

SAVE THE DATE | December 11

DECEMBER GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

BE READY TO SAVE A LIFE — SIGN UP FOR A CPR & FIRST AID CLASS!

Join us for our Annual General Membership Meeting on December 11, where we’ll share important updates and exciting goals for the year ahead. After the meeting, unwind and relax with a festive celebration to enjoy the holiday spirit together.

Accidents happen when you least expect them. Our CPR & First Aid certification course teaches you the essential skills to respond confidently in emergencies. Whether it’s assisting a coworker, helping a loved one or supporting a stranger in need, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge that could make all the difference. Each certification is valid for two years. No cost for SMWIA Local 104 members, managers or office staff. Sign up now — spots are limited!

Stay tuned — more details will be emailed soon!

The training teaches CPR & First Aid including the following:

DEC

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DECEMBER 11, 2025

Bay Area SMACNA Office 6689 Owens Dr., Ste. 200 Pleasanton, CA 94588

• Bleeding control • Burns / Shock • Poisoning • Fractures

DEC

STAY UP TO DATE WITH OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

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• Seizures • Diabetic Emergencies • AED

DECEMBER 12, 2025

Bay Area SMACNA Office 6689 Owens Dr., Ste. 200 Pleasanton, CA 94588

Scan to view our events. https://bit.ly/4ppih9L

SCAN TO REGISTER Scan to learn more about the class. https://bit.ly/471TGzN

2025 BAY AREA SMACNA OFFICERS

Bobby Bramlett

Brian Pyle

Sean Greenwood

President

Vice President

First Vice President

Aire Sheet Metal

Silicon Valley Mechanical

Critchfield Mechanical

Mark Napier Treasurer

Larry Jimenez Secretary

Duane Davies

Southland Industries

ACCO Engineered Systems

NABCO

Past President

2025 TRUSTEES & DIRECTORS Michelle Acosta

Mitch Hoppe

Mike Pence

Acosta Sheet Metal

Melrose Metal Products, Inc.

Control Air Enterprises

Leonard Bertolami

Paul Irwin

Vijay Singh

United Mechanical, Inc.

Bell Products, Inc.

ICOM Mechanical, Inc.

Paul De Bella

Sheri Learmonth

Paul Steckel

De Bella Mechanical

Marina Mechanical, Inc.

Van-Mulder Sheet Metal, Inc.

Rich Buckley

Sargon Michael

Bob Tuck

Anderson, Rowe & Buckley, Inc.

Allied Heating & Air Conditioning

Atlas Heating & Air Conditioning

Don Dennehy, Jr.

Mike MacDonald

Doug Ulrich

Crown Sheet Metal & Skylights, Inc.

North Bay Commercial Services, Inc

Burlingame Heating

Chris Enfantino

Jon Mohs

Art Williams

Environmental Systems, Inc. .

AGC, Inc.

Air Systems, Inc.

Mike Fisher

Jessica Pacat

Scott Peterson

Therma

Martinez Sheet Metal, Inc.

Peterson Mechanical, Inc.

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