National Careers in Trades Week Leads to Wall Street Journal Coverage and Hilger, Simon Interviews

Article talks about work force development and how heightened efforts to recruit high-schoolers into professions such as plumbing, electrical work and welding have helped spur a revitalization of shop classes in many districts.

SMACNA CEO Aaron Hilger and Angie Simon, co-founder of the Heavy Metal Summer Experience, were featured in a recent piece in the Wall Street Journal on revitalizing shop classes in the United States.

Heightened efforts to recruit high-schoolers into professions such as plumbing, electrical work, and welding have helped revitalize shop classes in many districts. The private sector is partnering with high schools to enable students to work part-time, earn money, and get academic credit.

The piece looks at SMACNA’s and HMSE's efforts, as well as the experience of a high school in the Philadelphia area and how its tech students are in high demand for their skillset.

Click here to read the Wall Street Journal article. (Subscription Required) 


May 7, 2025 Member Update

Latest Articles


SMACNA Convention Interview: Heavy Metal Summer Experience

Dec 30, 2025 - Angie Simon reflects on the impact the program has had on building a highly skilled workforce, and what the future has for the program!


2025 SMACNA Convention Interview: Gary Myers & Pansy Romo

Dec 30, 2025 - Panel discusses best practices for running an executive board, the importance of building consensus within a leadership structure.


Watch and Listen to the Veterans Learning Journey!

Dec 30, 2025 - Event explored the experiences of veterans in the industry, and looks at efforts to bridge the gap between military service and rewarding union careers.