SMACNA's CEO examines some of the association's work in critical subject matter areas.
The market sector councils and task forces have also been busy under Linda Jennings' direction. They are creating new programming at every opportunity. Some examples include the work being done by the industrial market sector task force on productivity and safety, the architectural task force’s efforts to leverage trade shows to increase industry awareness, and the residential group’s work to use new media tools to expand market footprint.
In a similar vein, the AI Task Force, led by Travis Voss and Hugh Seaton, is working diligently to help our members navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Through their informative webinars and other materials, we hope to answer the questions our members have on this complex topic.
We recognize that traditional white papers may not be the most accessible format for our members. To address this, we have converted many of these resources into podcasts and infographics, and we will continue to develop on-demand videos for greater accessibility.
Our education programming continues to evolve. SMACNA now offers 40 to 50 web-based courses annually and has expanded chapter education opportunities. Core programs such as PMI and BMU are scheduled more frequently and are available to interested chapters. Erykka Thompson is leading an education task force focused on expanding field leadership, supervisory and project management offerings.
Labor relations and local bargaining support have long been core services of SMACNA. Jason Watson has expanded the department's work and is actively working with Chapters to create stronger relationships with labor. He has also held additional training programs and is building a new trustee training program for 2026.
Published: August 28, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE
SMACNA's President reflects on his long history of collaboration with SMART General President Michael Coleman.
These next few years will be important for the construction industry, as artificial intelligence transforms key elements of how contractors operate.
Thompson Solutions Group brought Plan Architecture’s wood-look steel façade to life at Little Priest Tribal College, combining precision, speed and SMACNA-backed expertise.
Since late 2022, when ChatGPT was introduced, we’ve been hearing more and more about AI, usually with more hype than explanation.
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SMACNA's CEO examines some of the association's work in critical subject matter areas.
By flipping his business model and focusing on customer service, high-end brands and Indoor Air Quality, John Zipf turned a commercial-heavy HVAC company into a thriving residential operation.
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