Bay Area SMACNA Cutting Edge 4th Edition 2025

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

BAY AREA SMACNA’S

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EDGE MEMBER NEWSLETTER | Fourth Edition | 2025

RECAP: 2025 ANNUAL DINNER Pages 14-16

SMACNA ANNUAL CONVENTION Pages 4-7

WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS Page 17

RECAP: FALL PM PROGRAM Pages 20-21

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EDGE MEMBER NEWSLETTER

CUTTING EDGE | Fourth Edition 2025

IN THIS ISSUE NEWS & UPDATES

EDUCATION

03 PRESIDENT’S REMARKS 09 A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP: HONORING PAUL IRWIN’S IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY 17 WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS 19 IN MEMORIAM: REMEMBERING STAN CAPELLI’S LIFE AND LEGACY

EVENTS & RECAPS

13 RECAP: CPR TRAINING 20 RECAP: FALL PM PROGRAM

SAFETY 08 CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: BAY AREA SMACNA CONTRACTORS LEAD THE WAY IN SAFETY

04 RECAP: SMACNA ANNUAL CONVENTION 10 RECAP: CLAY SHOOTING 13 SAVE THE DATE: 60TH ANNUAL CAL SMACNA CONVENTION 14 RECAP: 2025 ANNUAL DINNER 22 RECAP: GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

LEGISLATIVE 18 GOVERNOR NEWSOM ADVANCES FAIR PAYMENT WITH SB 440 FOR PRIVATE WORKS

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 & Brian Pyle

PASSING THE TORCH TO NEW LEADERSHIP

Today, we stand not as individuals chasing separate victories, but as a united force on a constant journey of turning vision into reality. Our journey was never about one company’s brilliance, but about the collective courage to dream, the discipline to act and the resilience to keep going when the path grew steep.

Leadership isn’t about size or status it’s about lifting each other higher. We build from the bottom up, listen when the room is silent, step forward when the way is unclear, learn from mistakes and celebrate every small win as a step toward something greater.

What we’ve achieved together is a testament to the power of shared purpose. We didn’t just reach for goals; we built a foundation for others to stand on, leaving the world better than we found it. Let’s carry this momentum forward, leading with integrity, inspiring with action and showing that when committed people unite, no challenge is too great and no dream too distant.

Thank you for the privilege of serving on the executive committee.

I now welcome my friend and colleague, Brian Pyle, as President and reaffirm my commitment to our membership and organization under his leadership.

I’m truly excited to step into the role of Bay Area SMACNA President and continue building on the strong foundation that’s been laid. It’s an honor to have the opportunity to help guide our association forward, and I’m energized by the possibilities ahead. I also want to offer a heartfelt thank you to our outgoing president, Bobby Bramlett, for his unwavering dedication and steady leadership this past year. His support has meant so much to me and the entire Board, and we’re deeply grateful for all he has done.

Bobby Bramlett

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT bob@airesm.com Tel: 650-451-8141

Brian Pyle PRESIDENT

bpyle@svminc.com Tel: 408-943-0380

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EVENT RECAP | SMACNA Annual Convention

DRIVING COLLABORATION, INNOVATION AND IMPACT AT 2025 SMACNA CONVENTION On October 26–29, Bay Area SMACNA contractors joined more than 1,600 of their peers from across the United States and Canada for the SMACNA Annual Convention in Wailea, Hawaii.

The event brought together sheet metal and HVAC professionals, educators and associate members for several days of learning and networking. Attendees participated in a range of educational sessions covering topics such as automation, sheet metal manufacturing, artificial intelligence and workforce recruiting.

Commander and White House Fellow & Adviser who emphasized the importance of working together, adaptability and embracing challenges. Her main inspiration sentiment was “change is a headwind, harness it. Nothing of significance is ever accomplished alone.”

The convention featured a powerful keynote presentation from Col. Nicole Malachowski, the first woman

The highlight of the week was our Chapter Night, an evening filled with celebration and camaraderie. Our members savored delicious local cuisine while enjoying a

Thunderbird Pilot, Combat Veteran, Fighter Squadron

captivating fire and hula performance from talented locals.

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SAFETY | SMACNA Annual Convention

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: BAY AREA SMACNA CONTRACTORS LEAD THE WAY IN SAFETY Congratulations to Control Air Enterprises LLC and Marina Mechanical Services — two valued Bay Area SMACNA members — on receiving the 2025 Top Safety Performer Award during the 2025 SMACNA Annual Convention in October!

The SMACNA Safety Awards Program recognizes contractors who go above and beyond in prioritizing safe, healthy and supportive workplaces. This honor highlights each company’s commitment to protecting their teams through proactive planning, innovation and a strong safety-first culture.

We applaud their dedication to elevating safety standards across the HVAC and sheet metal industry. Their achievements not only celebrate the hard work of the past year, they also set the bar for continued safety excellence in the years ahead.

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GENERAL NEWS | Thank You, Paul

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP: HONORING PAUL IRWIN’S IMPACT ON THE INDUSTRY For over two decades, Paul Irwin has been the Management Chairman of the Northern California Joint Apprenticeship Committee, a joint labor and management trust dedicated to providing men and women in the sheet metal industry with the highest level of training, skills and knowledge available.

His commitment has helped shape the lives, careers and futures of countless apprentices.

Serving on the JATC is no small undertaking. It requires patience and vision. Paul has been a steady voice of experience, a champion for training standards and a tireless advocate for fairness, safety and excellence.

His guidance has helped build a training program that not only prepares workers for the technical demands of the trade, but also instills professionalism, integrity and pride.

With every curriculum update and committee meeting, Paul has contributed to a stronger workforce and a stronger industry.

Thank you, Paul, for over 20 years of extraordinary service!

We are deeply grateful for your remarkable leadership, dedication and to have had you as part of the JATC’s legacy.

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EVENT RECAP | Clay Shooting

MEMBERS HIT THE RANGE FOR A DAY OF SPORTING CLAYS On October 3, Bay Area SMACNA members headed to the Bird’s Landing Clay Shooting range for an action-packed day of sporting clays!

Participants rotated through a variety of stations, each presenting unique targets and terrain to challenge everyone’s focus, timing and aim. The day wrapped up with a delicious BBQ lunch and raffle prizes. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the day a success. We’re already looking forward to the next one!

1ST

National Air Balance Company, Inc. Ewan Schut John Bingham Trevor Davies Sam Melo

FIRST PLACE 2ND

Fairview Heating & Air Robert Conner Ryan Fithian Bradley Conner Joe Poupore

SECOND PLACE Duck and Cover

Rob Moore

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3RD

Critchfield Mechanical, Inc. Garrett Musch Greg Donjon Zach Webber John Pettigrew

THIRD PLACE High Overall Shooter

Greg Donjon

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RECAP | CPR Training

STRENGTHENING SAFETY THROUGH CPR & FIRST AID CERTIFICATION On December 12, 40 participants completed a CPR and First Aid class focused on developing essential life-saving skills.

The training covered how to respond effectively to emergencies such as cardiac arrest, choking and drowning.

Attendees learned to perform CPR and received instruction on the proper use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator).

CLASS HIGHLIGHTS: • Special Considerations: Techniques tailored for providing aid to infants and children.

• Choking Response: Step-by-step training on how to assist a choking victim using abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver).

• Hands-On Practice: Interactive exercises with mannequins and AED units for real-world application.

CPR certifications are valid for two years. This class was offered at no cost to SMW Local 104 members, managers and office staff.

SAVE THE DATE | April 8-11, 2026

60TH ANNUAL CAL SMACNA CONVENTION Members are invited to the 60th Annual CAL SMACNA Convention, taking place April 8–11, 2026, at the beautiful Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa in Hawaii!

The event promises plenty of educational sessions, hands-on workshops and networking opportunities with industry peers. Whether you’re looking to stay on top of the latest trends, gain insights from experts or strengthen professional connections, this convention has something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on an unforgettable week!

APR

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APR

11

APRIL 8-11, 2026

Grant Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa Kauai, Hawaii

SCAN TO REGISTER Register by February 2, 2026 https://bit.ly/4rC7GJY

REGISTER FOR MARCH 20 CLASS Scan to learn more! https://bit.ly/3XYWYj8

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EVENT RECAP | 2025 Annual Dinner

ANNUAL DINNER CELEBRATES SERVICE, SUCCESS AND INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS With more than 100 contractor and associate members in attendance, this year’s Annual Dinner & Installation of Officers on November 15 was another great success at the Meritage Resort in Napa — marking our third consecutive year at this beautiful venue.

The evening kicked off with a warm welcome from Sean O’Donoghue, Bay Area SMACNA’s Executive Vice President, who introduced our outgoing 2025 President, Bobby Bramlett. Bobby expressed gratitude to everyone for coming, emphasized the importance of getting the younger generation involved and reflected on our collective accomplishments over the past year. He also shared his admiration for the way our members set aside competition to come together like a family around common goals.

National SMACNA President Todd Hill then took the stage to express his appreciation for the invitation and his enthusiasm to connect and build relationships with Bay Area members throughout the coming year.

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One of the evening’s highlights was the introduction of Brian Pyle, our incoming 2025 President. Brian shared his vision for the year ahead and encouraged members to stay engaged, reminding everyone that this association is truly shaped by its members. He also highlighted the importance of recognizing the dedication of individuals who contribute to advancing the industry. Brian then presented the 2025 Lonnie Michael III Achievement Award to Duane Davies, honoring his exceptional leadership, volunteer service and dedication to the sheet metal industry.

Along with meaningful updates and recognition, the event was also a festive celebration of the season with colleagues and friends. Thanks to everyone who joined us — we hope you had an amazing time!

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WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS The Board of Directors welcomed four new members and two returning members at our Annual Dinner and Installation of Officers. Each of these individuals is an effective leader within their respective companies and will play a vital role in shaping the direction of our association. We are thrilled for them to share their expertise with us. In addition, one of our returning members, Vijay Singh has been elected to the Executive Board, serving as our new Secretary.

Joe Bullard Sr. PRESIDENT & CEO, BULLARD’S HEATING AND AIR, INC. A native San Franciscan, Joe Bullard Sr. is the founder and President/CEO of Bullard’s Heating & Air Inc. (BHA), bringing nearly 40 years of field and management experience to a company that has become a trusted partner on public and private projects throughout the city. Founded in 1996, BHA is a commercial and industrial HVAC contractor specializing in public works within San Francisco and at San Francisco International Airport. A dedicated family man, Joe has six children, enjoys traveling to Hawaii with his wife and volunteers regularly at his local church.

Jonathan Diaz FOUNDING MEMBER & CEO, AXIS MECHANICAL, INC. Jonathan Diaz brings more than 25 years of strategic and operational leadership in the sheet metal and mechanical construction industry. A graduate of the Local 104 Sheet Metal Apprenticeship program and a lifelong Bay Area resident, he offers deep insight into the region’s infrastructure needs and industry evolution. As a founding member and CEO of Axis Mechanical, he leads company operations, drives performance and promotes a culture of excellence. Johnathan is a strong advocate for workforce development and the essential role of skilled trades in sustaining a resilient construction sector.

Jim Troup PRESIDENT, MONTEREY MECHANICAL COMPANY Jim Troup joined Monterey Mechanical in 1989, managing some of the company’s largest projects before being promoted to Vice President in 1999 and President in 2011. His leadership emphasizes excellence, core values and collaboration, inspiring employee loyalty and prioritizing their safety and well-being. Jim is active in industry organizations and has a passion for creating positive impacts that will benefit future generations.

He serves on the district and state boards of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of California, chaired the AGC Joint Engineering Division in 2011, is a member of the Union Contractors Council and ACE Mentor Program, and is a trustee of the Northern California Laborers Pension and Annuity.

Frank Young GENERAL MANAGER, SIMPSON SHEET METAL, INC. Frank Young is the General Manager at Simpson Sheet Metal, a family-owned HVAC and sheet metal contractor serving the Greater Bay Area with full design-build, installation, maintenance and inhouse fabrication services. Having grown with the company for more than a decade, he has a deep understanding of the business and is proud to lead a company rooted in its community. Frank is committed to strengthening long-term relationships, driving steady growth and creating opportunities for the next generation of tradespeople through the JATC, North Coast Builders Exchange training programs and the Bay Area SMACNA Board. Outside of work, he coaches his kids’ sports teams and enjoys the outdoors, hunting, softball, MMA and jujitsu.

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LEGISLATIVE | SB 440

GOVERNOR NEWSOM ADVANCES FAIR PAYMENT WITH SB 440 FOR PRIVATE WORKS In October, Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill 440 (Ochoa Bogh), creating the Private Works Change Order Fair Payment Act. The law ensures timely, fair payment for construction change orders arising from contract modifications, scope adjustments, unplanned work and other routine changes.

Thanks go to the CAL SMACNA Legislative Committee led by Carmen Koo, members who supported the bill, the Southern California Association of Scaffold Contractors (the bill’s primary sponsor) and industry partners for helping secure this legislative win benefiting union subcontractors across California.

SB 440 creates a system that levels the playing field for contractors, especially subcontractors, by ensuring a fair change order process and providing for timely payments.

This bill establishes clear processes for disputes arising from contracts for private works:

• A subcontractor may request that a contractor submit a claim to the owner on their behalf if they lack direct standing.

• The contractor must notify the subcontractor within 30 days whether the claim was submitted; if not, they must explain why.

• The owner has 30 days to review the claim and provide a written statement identifying disputed and undisputed portions.

• The claimant must provide reasonable documentation; timelines can be extended by mutual agreement.

• The owner must pay any undisputed amounts within 60 days of their written statement.

• Remaining disputed portions go to nonbinding mediation, with costs shared equally.

• Any remaining disputes are resolved per the contract’s dispute resolution procedures identified in the underlying contract or, if none exists, by final judgment or operation of law.

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THE PRIVATE WORKS CHANGE ORDER FAIR PAYMENT ACT ALSO:

IN MEMORIAM

• Imposes 2% monthly interest on unpaid disputed amounts.

• Allows a contractor or subcontractor to suspend work without penalty if the owner fails to pay undisputed amounts.

• To pause work and avoid penalties, the contractor or subcontractor must notify the owner after 30 days of nonpayment and give 10 days’ written notice of intent to stop work.

• Owners have 40 days to make payment before work can be paused.

• SB 440 provides CAL SMACNA contractors a fair change order process, timely payments and an alternative method to resolve private works disputes.

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Chris Walker at (916) 363-7460 or chris@cal-smacna.org.

1963–2025

REMEMBERING STAN CAPELLI’S LIFE AND LEGACY Stan Capelli quietly passed away on September 22 after a courageous battle with cancer. His wife, Sue, was faithfully by his side as was his family.

Stan was many things, all defined by faith, honor and integrity. He was a cherished husband, father and grandfather; a respected HVAC contractor; and an esteemed SMACNA Chapter Executive for the Tri-Counties and Central Valley of California. He was also a man deeply committed to his work, community and the people around him.

Outside of his professional life, Stan was an avid boater, fisherman, hunter, hiker and Dodgers fan. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was a wonderful storyteller. He was generous in quiet, humble ways and unafraid to take risks. Above all, he was the kind of friend anyone would be fortunate to have.

In the final chapter of his life, Stan showed what it truly means to live with strength, dignity, goodness and compassion. He remained a kind and gentle soul to the end.

DON’T FORGET! Our annual Day at the Capitol event is coming up on January 26-27, 2026. Hope to see you there!

Our thoughts are with the entire Capelli family. Stan will be deeply missed.

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EDUCATION RECAP | Fall PM Program

SHAPING TOMORROW’S PROJECT LEADERS: FALL PM PROGRAM WRAP-UP Over six weeks, 28 students immersed themselves in our Fall Project Management Certificate Program — an enhanced training experience designed to blend practical skills with real industry insight.

The curriculum featured hands-on Bluebeam workshops, Seismic Bracing & Ventilation for Acceptable IAQ, a session on Building Relationships to Enhance Your Career and classic favorites like Change Order Management.

Each instructor brought unique expertise and realworld perspective, creating a well-rounded and dynamic learning environment. Students left with fresh knowledge, sharpened skills and practical tools they can put to work immediately.

One participant shared, “Kevin made the course really easy to follow by using real-life examples. I learned a lot about being assertive and customer-focused, and the lessons feel very practical for everyday work.”

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Another said, “The class was definitely beneficial for what I’ll be doing in my career. Thank you for the valuable lessons!”

The program wrapped up with a contractor panel featuring Don Dennehy of Crown Sheet Metal & Skylights, Inc. and Greg Rothe of National Air Balance Company, Inc., who shared candid insights on the challenges and opportunities facing project management today.

Thank you to our instructors — Kevin Dougherty, Craig Kisylia, Chris Bennett, Henry Nutt, Andrew Patron, Eli Howard, Dave Morton and Ken Phelps — along with our panel facilitator, Rae Ann Inniello. And of course, thank you to our contractors Don and Greg for sharing their time and expertise!

PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM GRADUATES ADRIAN AYALA MAHDEE BARAKAT BRAD BISCOCHO STEPHANIE CASTRO TAMMY CHAN

JULIO HERNANDEZ JASON JONES NICK KLUNIS RYLEE ZAVALA GAVIN MALONEY

GERMAN PEREZ JOANA RICO-LOPEZ RYAN RUHANY MUNWEEN SINGH JARED STOCKER

KIM DANGANAN MIHIR DEDGE RYAN EVERY OMAR HASHEM ERWIN HERNANDEZ

KYLE MALONEY PATRICK MARTINEZ CORY MILLER ERIN MOSS DIANE NGUYEN

AUDREY TREJO ALEX TRUJILLO JEFF VOLKMAN

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EVENT RECAP | General Membership Meeting

CELEBRATING PROGRESS, PARTNERSHIP AND THE HOLIDAY SEASON Our end-of-year general meeting and holiday luncheon was a wonderful way to close out a productive year.

Along with the standard training trust, pension and financial reports, we heard updates from each member firm, enjoyed an insightful presentation on Alternative Dispute Resolution from Michael Brown of Epic Insurance, and honored Paul Irwin for his dedicated service as Management Chairman of the Northern California Joint Apprentice Committee.

The meeting was positive and collaborative, with thoughtful ideas shared and genuine enthusiasm for the year ahead. We wrapped up the day with a festive holiday lunch filled with great conversation, plenty of laughter and a welcome chance to unwind together.

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2026 BAY AREA SMACNA OFFICERS

Brian Pyle

Sean Greenwood

Mark Napier

President

Vice President

First Vice President

Silicon Valley Mechanical Inc.

Critchfield Mechanical Inc.

Southland Industries

Larry Jimenez Treasurer

Vijay Singh Secretary

Bobby Bramlett

ACCO Engineered Systems

ICOM Mechanical, Inc.

Aire Sheet Metal

Past President

2026 TRUSTEES & DIRECTORS Michelle Acosta

Chris Enfantino

Jessica Pacat

All Temperature Service Air Conditioning Inc.

Environmental Systems, Inc. .

Martinez Sheet Metal, Inc.

Keith Atteberry

Mike Fisher

Mike Pence

Marelich Mechanical Co., Inc.

Therma

Control Air Enterprises, LLC

Rich Buckley

Mitch Hoppe

Scott Peterson

Anderson, Rowe & Buckley, Inc.

Melrose Metal Products, Inc.

Peterson Mechanical, Inc.

Joe Bullard Sr.

Paul Irwin

Paul Steckel

Bullard’s Heating and Air, Inc.

Bell Products, Inc.

Van-Mulder Sheet Metal, Inc.

Don Dennehy, Jr.

Sheri Learmonth

Jim Troup

Crown Sheet Metal & Skylights, Inc.

Marina Mechanical Services

Monterey Mechanical Company

Jonathan Diaz

Mike MacDonald

Bob Tuck

Axis Mechanical, Inc.

North Bay Commercial Services, Inc

Atlas Heating & Air Conditioning Company

Duane Davies

Sargon Michael

Frank Young

National Air Balance Company, Inc.

Allied Heating & Air Conditioning

Simpson Sheet Metal, Inc.

Jon Mohs AGC, Inc.

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