Chapter Highlight – SMACNA of Oklahoma

SMACNA of Oklahoma has been steadily strengthening our presence at the Oklahoma State Capitol. This year, we have focused on raising the profile of mechanical and sheet metal contractors with lawmakers, building new industry partnerships, and ensuring contractors’ voices are part of every major policy discussion.

Advocacy at the Capitol
Throughout the legislative session, our members met with legislators and state officials to represent the interests of contractors. By serving as a trusted resource on technical issues like licensing, workforce development, and public procurement, our chapter has built credibility and influence with decision-makers. We also attended the CEA Conference in Washington, DC in May of this year. A highlight of this outreach was Congressman Kevin Hern’s visit to the Tulsa UA Training Center, where he toured the facility and saw firsthand the investment contractors are making in apprenticeship and workforce development. Regular legislative updates and active involvement in key committee hearings have further positioned the organization as a go-to voice for the industry.

Building a Stronger Voice
One of the most significant steps this year has been the launch of the Construction Trades Coalition. We recognized that the challenges facing contractors—such as workforce shortages, apprenticeship expansion, and regulatory oversight—are best addressed through a united industry front. By bringing together contractors, unions, and allied trades, the coalition plans to amplify the industry’s influence at the Capitol even further. This effort ensures policymakers hear a coordinated message about the importance of protecting high standards, investing in workforce development, and supporting the businesses that keep Oklahoma building.

Key Issues & Industry Leadership
The chapter has stayed focused on big-picture priorities:
• Protecting the integrity of contractor licensing standards
• Advocating for apprenticeship programs and workforce development
• Engaging with state agencies to ensure fair and balanced regulatory oversight
• Strengthening the industry’s visibility in conversations around economic development and public projects

Looking Forward
As the political season heats up, SMACNA of Oklahoma is preparing to play a stronger role in elections and policy shaping. Chapter leaders are already meeting with key candidates—including the Governor and Attorney General contenders—to ensure industry concerns are understood well before decisions are made. This early engagement is laying the groundwork for a more influential voice in the upcoming election cycle and beyond. By combining a stronger coalition with direct relationships to policymakers and candidates, we are positioning contractors to have a decisive impact on the future of Oklahoma’s construction environment.