SMACNA CEO Publishes Editorial on Need for Younger Workers in Trades

Piece penned by Aaron Hilger, run in newspapers in Florida, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia talks about the benefits of a career in the trades for high school graduates.

   Aaron Hilger

SMACNA CEO Aaron Hilger recently wrote an op-ed for syndication regarding the value of a career in the skilled trades for rising high school seniors and recent graduates. The article, published in publications based in FloridaPennsylvania, and West Virginia, talked about the growing need for young skilled workers as the industry is becoming flooded by the growth of megaprojects. Hilger spoke about the need to expand apprenticeship programs and vibrant high school technical education programs so the flow of skilled workers can meet the growing demand. 


May 8, 2024 Member Update

Latest Articles


Webinar: How Tariffs Work

Jun 18, 2025 - The latest entry in SMACNA’s Political Zoom Series features John G. Murphy from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for a discussion on the basics of tariff policy so you can make informed business decisions.


2025 CEA National Issues Conference Interview: Todd Byxbe

Jun 18, 2025 - The longtime SMACNA legislative advocate discusses several topics, including the importance of contractors attending the event and why relationship building is so critical.


New Horizons And Field Materials Release First-of-Its-Kind Benchmarking Survey

Jun 18, 2025 - Field Materials, a SMACNA Silver Associate Member, has partnered with the New Horizons Foundation to release a first-of-its-kind benchmarking survey focused on material procurement and equipment rental practices within...