Building off the momentum from National Career in Trades Week, the spotlight continues to shine on efforts to build interest in a career in our industry.

The Heavy Metal Summer Experience was featured in a recent article in Forbes magazine, detailing the partnership between SMACNA and member firms Hermanson and Western Allied Mechanical. Angie Simon, co-founder and Executive Director of HMSE, discussed how the program has evolved since its inception in 2021 and the impact it has on developing the next generation of workers for our industry.
SMACNA recently launched National Career in Trades Week, an effort to highlight the work being done in our industry, such as that being done by HMSE, to improve awareness of the opportunities available to our young people through a career in the skilled trades. To learn more about National Career in Trades Week, click here. To read the Forbes piece on HMSE, click here.
Sep 3, 2025 — Member Update
Oct 21, 2025 - Jake Olsen, CEO of Stratus, joins Angie Simon to talk about how the SMACNA associate member works to assist contractors and how the space must collaborate to find the next generation of workers.
Oct 21, 2025 - Program is meant to celebrate the exceptional work by contractors in promoting a safe, secure and conducive environment for their workers.
Oct 21, 2025 - By attending this essential program, you'll gain the confidence and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of collective bargaining effectively.