Latest SMACNA Publications

Explore SMACNA’s latest publications with insights on BIM and IP, practical resources to help contractors improve projects, protect their businesses, and stay ahead.

Enhancing MEP Coordination in the Age of Building Information Modeling (BIM)

The new SMACNA paper, “Enhancing MEP Coordination in the Age of Building Information Modeling (BIM),” explores how SMACNA contractors can better leverage BIM to reduce coordination headaches and improve project outcomes. Through survey data and interviews with external AEC stakeholders, the paper identifies the root causes of common BIM coordination challenges, such as digital waste, late design changes and unclear handoffs between trades. It also proposes best practices to address them. The paper highlights the impact of contract type, stakeholder engagement, as well as the importance of leadership skills in BIM managers. The research blends real-world pain points with thoughtful visualizations and actionable strategies that contractors can use to improve internal processes and external collaboration. SCAN TO ORDER!

New Whitepaper: Intellectual Property in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

The new whitepaper, “Intellectual Property in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” helps SMACNA members better understand what intellectual property (IP) is, how it applies to their businesses and why it’s increasingly important in a world of digital tools and evolving construction practices. It explains the four major categories of IP — patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets — with a particular focus on trade secrets and copyrighted content, which are most relevant to contractors. The paper explores how internal manuals, unique fabrication processes, training materials and even meeting notes can all represent forms of valuable IP, especially when written down and reused. It also outlines how mismanagement or misuse of this content — internally or externally — can present legal and operational risks for contractors. SCAN TO ORDER!

Model Intellectual Property Policy for SMACNA Member Firms

The new “Model Intellectual Property Policy for SMACNA Member Firms” offers a clear, customizable framework to identify, protect and responsibly use intellectual property within their businesses. It defines the key types of IP relevant to contractors, especially trade secrets, copyrighted materials and customer data. It also outlines practical steps for safeguarding proprietary methods, internal documents and client assets. The policy reinforces the importance of NDAs, access controls and responsible content handling, particularly when managing or sharing internal manuals, estimating tools and project documentation. SCAN TO ORDER!

Published: October 21, 2025

How SMACNA’s Government Affairs department is advocating for members in 2025.

Welsch Heating and Cooling delivers energy efficiency and architectural style on one of St. Louis’s largest residential projects.

SMCA is cultivating young leadership, strengthening labor ties and expanding educational programs to keep Philadelphia’s sheet metal industry strong, sustainable and future-ready.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), a sweeping 2025 tax reform package, introduces wide-ranging changes to federal tax policy. While it may appear broadly applicable across industries, its impact on construction is direct and substantial.

Dynamic Systems thrives by delivering mechanical construction precision through advanced technologies and streamlined digital workflows.

On Aug. 19, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit halted unfair labor practice proceedings against three employers, most notably SpaceX, before the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

Contractors and SMACNA staff know advocacy matters. When members get involved, our voices are heard and we shape policies that protect and grow our industry.

SMACNA's President discusses the importance of engaging with lawmakers and reflects on his term.

Explore SMACNA’s latest publications with insights on BIM and IP, practical resources to help contractors improve projects, protect their businesses, and stay ahead.

SMACNA member Dee Cramer was hired to perform HVAC construction on a corporate campus built to harmonize with the environment.

Copper walls by General Sheet Metal define IBEW 48’s hall.

SMACNA's CEO discusses the significant role government relations have always played at SMACNA and details his own interaction with our team on the Hill.

It’s no secret that our industry has seen a rapid digital transformation over the past two decades. From BIM and ERP systems to robotic layout and cloud project management, today’s contractors and fabricators have access to powerful tools.