Strengthening SMACNA: Engaged Members, Stronger Connections

I have enjoyed getting to know many members and chapter leaders. Engagement is a word that associations toss around a lot — usually when talking about how members interact with the association. SMACNA members are engaged in many ways.

For me, specifically, engagement has always been attending SMACNA meetings. These events are critical and important on numerous levels. From a tangible standpoint, they are unique educational opportunities only available to SMACNA contractors and our chapter executives. Our programming encompasses so much of what is needed to thrive in our industry, especially in these interesting times. In April, we held the second SMACNA Fab Forum in Boston. This event, hosted by McCusker-Gill, was an opportunity for our members to learn more about some of the cutting-edge developments in the fabrication space and learn from a contractor on the leading edge of the work in this arena. Through this type of programming, we can help our members expand their professional toolboxes in a manner that enables them to deliver the highest caliber of work to our customers.

Another recent educational and advocacy event was the CEA National Issues Conference. CEA is not only an opportunity for us to press our issues to our lawmakers in Washington, but it is also an opportunity for our members to learn more about the events shaping policy on the Hill. Over the past few years, much of the work done in Congress has shaped the business climate for our members. An event like CEA offers the opportunity to learn from subject matter experts, ranging from leaders of top-level think tanks to congressional leaders from both parties. SMACNA is held in the highest esteem by policymakers in D.C. CEA allows our members to help us share our incredible story. Related to CEA, another engagement point is our Political Action Committee. I am a long-time CIC member and have supported SMACNA’s legislative efforts for more than 20 years. Many of our most active members, board members and executive committee members started working with the PAC early in their journeys.

Beyond the educational aspect of meetings, networking is incredibly crucial. Relationship building at the association level is more critical than ever. During my time with SMACNA, from my time as a Chapter Executive in Rochester to my time as the CEO in Virginia, these interactions were incredibly critical and beneficial. I recall fondly chapter executives who welcomed me when I started with SMACNA Rochester. Most of them are retired now and I have been in a position to offer the same warm welcome to new executives from around the country. I brought programs and ideas from SMACNA to all of my associations. I have also gotten the opportunity to learn from contractors of all sizes and share that information with other members.

As you read, we are approaching our Annual Convention in Maui. Convention is the flagship event on our calendar, no matter where it is. For those of you who have the opportunity to join us in Hawaii in October, let me impart some of my own experience to you. The setting for this Convention is going to be stunning, and I don’t blame you for wanting to spend as much time enjoying the view as possible. I know I’m excited to touchdown in Maui. I urge you to use your time at Convention not only as an opportunity to relax, but to engage with your colleagues and learn as much as possible about what’s happening in our industry. This involvement (yes, engagement) makes SMACNA a better association. It helps us ensure that our industry continues to thrive.

I hope you are having a great summer, and I'll see you in the fall at SMACNA's Annual Convention.