Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-8th-Pa.) and Josh Gottheimer (D-5th-N.J.), both strong supporters of the sheet metal industry, recently toured the shop of SMACNA contractor Prime Sheet Metal Inc. of Warminster, Pennsylvania.

They discussed industry jobs, apprenticeships, and training with Dominic Bonitatis, owner of Prime Sheet Metal Inc., and vice president of SMCA of Philadelphia and Vicinity. The press conference was sponsored by the Sheet Metal Contractors Association of Philadelphia and Vicinity.

Along with Congressional staff and photographers, Tom Bush, business representative from SMART Local 19 attended, as well as members of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers and International Brotherhood of Electricians.

“Everybody was impressed that the Congressmen would visit and take the time to answer questions and listen to our opinions,” said Jim Shields, communications director, SMCA of Philadelphia and Vicinity. “Both Congressmen seem to be genuinely concerned with doing the right thing,” he said. “They were very interested in talking to Dominic Bonitatis of Prime Sheet Metal Inc. and SMCA Executive Director Bill Reardon about what apprentices make as they progress through their training. The tour made an impression.”

Reps. Fitzpatrick and Gottheimer are members of the bipartisan Problem-Solvers Caucus, which works to increase bi-partisan cooperation and develop a culture of trust in Congress.