2026 SMACNA Annual Convention: Call for Proposals

We invite proposals on timely, high-impact topics relevant to HVAC, architectural sheet metal, industrial sheet metal, residential HVAC/sheet metal, and testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB).

Sessions should:

• Fit within a 50-minute timeframe
• Address real-world industry challenges and opportunities
• Be engaging and actionable
• Provide clear, measurable takeaways participants can implement immediately

Educational sessions must be informative and non-commercial. Presentations designed primarily to promote a product, service, or external program will not be accepted.

Preference will be given to sessions that include SMACNA member contractors as presenters or co-presenters, sharing real-life experience and case studies.

Session Formats

To encourage interaction and variety, select one format for each proposal:

• Presentation
• Panel Discussion
• Interactive Workshop

Topic Areas

Proposals should focus on practical solutions, emerging trends, and proven strategies that improve contractor performance, profitability, and workforce development. Suggested areas include:

Business Strategy & Financial Management

• Construction law and risk management
• Financial planning, accounting, and internal controls
• Cash flow and payment collection best practices
• Succession and exit planning
• Scaling or right-sizing your business
• Successful programs implemented by SMACNA contractors
• Family or co-ownership structures
• Withdrawal liability and other financial lessons learned

Leadership & Workforce Development

• Building strong company culture
• Recruiting and retaining the next generation workforce
• Coaching, mentoring, and leadership development
• Emotional intelligence and conflict management
• Crisis leadership
• Employee engagement and accountability
• Mental health awareness and support

Productivity & Project Management

• Preplanning and scheduling strategies that save time and money
• Contracts and documentation best practices
• Labor productivity and tracking
• Field and shop efficiency
• Quality control and continuous improvement
• Identifying early warning signs on troubled projects

Safety, Standards & Compliance

• Safety program best practices
• Risk identification and mitigation
• Incident investigations
• Emergency action planning
• Regulatory updates and compliance
• Mental health and suicide prevention initiatives

Technology & Innovation

• AI and automation in construction operations
• Digital tools for estimating, scheduling, and project management
• Field technology and mobile solutions
• Software implementation lessons learned
• Prefabrication and shop innovation (especially for small and mid-sized shops)
• Virtual and simulation training
• Energy efficiency and sustainable practices
• Advanced fabrication techniques

Contractor Case Studies & Practical Solutions

• Real-world lessons learned from the field
• Partnering with owners, GCs, and construction managers
• Residential opportunities for commercial contractors
• Service and maintenance growth strategies
• Emerging technologies and equipment
• “What worked/what didn’t” contractor roundtables

Submit your Proposals using this form: 2026 SMACNA Annual Convention Call for Proposals

Important Dates

March 30, 2026 - Responses to Call for Proposals due

April 27, 2026 - Speakers notified of selection

October 25-28, 2026 – SMACNA Annual Convention and Product Show in Orlando, FL