SMACNA Recognizes Outstanding Advocacy Leaders at 2026 Annual Convention

SMACNA recognized five exceptional industry leaders for their contributions to legislative advocacy and industry engagement during the 2026 SMACNA Annual Convention. Awards were presented at both the Monday Keynote Presentation & Lunch and the Wednesday evening Congressional Insiders Club (CIC) Reception, honoring individuals whose leadership, commitment, and advocacy efforts continue to strengthen the union sheet metal and HVAC industry.

At the Monday luncheon, Mike Hilgert, CEO of Superior Duct Fabrication, Inc.(SMACNA Southern California), was honored as the 2026 Legislative Contractor of the Year. This award recognizes contractors who have demonstrated exceptional effort and unparalleled leadership in legislative advocacy on behalf of their company, their chapter, and the industry. Their engagement strengthens SMACNA's advocacy efforts and inspires others to match their level of commitment.

Also recognized was Ronda Gilliland-Lopez, Executive Director of SMACNA-New Mexico, who received the 2026 Chapter Executive Legislative Advocate of the Year Award. This award honors chapter executives who have demonstrated outstanding personal involvement in the legislative process while successfully mobilizing members to become active advocates for the industry.

The 2026 Distinguished Legislative Service Award was presented to Randy Pagel Sr., CEO of Bumler Mechanical (SMACNA Metro Detroit). The award recognizes SMACNA members who have played a consistent and dedicated role in the association's legislative and advocacy programs, exhibiting a level of long-term involvement and commitment few can match.

During the Wednesday evening CIC Reception, Jennifer Lohr, Vice President of Fisher Balancing Company and a member of SMCA Philadelphia & Vicinity, was recognized as the inaugural recipient of the SMACNA Legislative Rising Star Award. Established in 2026, the award recognizes an emerging industry advocate who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to legislative engagement and advocacy. Her efforts to advance the interests of the union sheet metal and HVAC industry and support SMACNA's advocacy mission exemplify the next generation of industry leadership.

The Legislative Career Achievement Award was presented to Angie Simon, Co-Founder and President of Heavy Metal Summer Experience. This distinguished honor recognizes SMACNA members who, throughout their careers, have dedicated their time and effort to advancing SMACNA's legislative and advocacy programs. Their unwavering support, leadership, and active involvement have proven invaluable to the association and the industry.

Congratulations to all five honorees for their outstanding contributions to SMACNA's advocacy efforts and for their continued leadership on behalf of the industry.