Shows
The ConTechCrewTop Holiday Tech Gifts for Construction Pros to Stay Healthy and Energized with The Construction DorksIn this holiday special of The ConTech Crew, host Jeff Sample returns with the construction dorks for a hosts-only episode to share their favorite tech and wellness gift ideas for the construction dorks in your life. From wearables and recovery tools to retro gaming consoles and DIY robot arms, this fun-filled episode looks into a wide range of geeky, practical, and wellness-focused gifts that blend construction life with tech enthusiasm. The crew also reflects on the importance of rest, play, and giving time during the holiday season.This episode features the full lineup: Jeff Sample, Jonathan Marsh...
2025-12-1638 min
Curiosity with KristenAngie Simon - Past CEO Western Allied Mechanical & Co-Founder/President of Heavy Metal Summer ExperienceIt was an honor to welcome Angie Simon to Curiosity with Kristen. After retiring in 2023, Angie continues to lead and inspire. She spent over 35 years at Western Allied, where she served as President and CEO, growing the company by more than 300%. She also made history as the first woman to serve as President of SMACNA, opening doors for more women in the trades.In 2021, she launched the Heavy Metal Summer Experience—a camp introducing high school students to the trades. What started with 28 kids in 2 locations has grown to over 900 students in 51 locations across the U.S. an...
2025-10-3152 min
Let's Talk ShopEpisode 38- Jake Olsen (CEO, Stratus)Jake Olsen, CEO of SMACNA Silver Associate Member Stratus, joins Angie for the latest episode of Let's Talk Shop. We talk to Jake about his industry journey, talk about how Stratus helps SMACNA members reach their goals, and how Stratus (and the construction space as a whole) is working to adapt to attract the next generation of workers.
2025-10-2129 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 37: (Special) Angie Simon and William Chaney (CEO, ServiceTrade)Seth Lennon hosts a special episode of Let's Talk Shop featuring a discussion between Angie Simon, Past SMACNA President and Co-Founder, and President of Heavy Metal Summer Experience, and William Chaney, the CEO of SMACNA Silver Associate Member ServiceTrade. The panel discusses the challenges and opportunities in building a workforce, highlighting how private firms and organizations like Heavy Metal Summer Experience are paving the way to bring younger generations into our industry.
2025-09-0924 min
The ConTechCrewPrivate Equity in Construction for Builders to Navigate the Fallout from Autodesk’s $25B DealThe second half of this episode continues the crew Jonathan Marsh, CEO of Steel Toe Consulting and a technology strategist, Nathan Wood, Founder & Chief Enabling Officer At SpectrumAEC, Travis Voss, Director of Innovative Technology and Fabrication at SMACNA and Jacob D’Albora, Director of Digital Building Operations at VIATechnik gets into how policy, planning, and finance are reshaping construction’s landscape. They unpack the risks of short-term thinking in materials sourcing, renewable energy setbacks, and how permitting reform could change how we build.Things also get financial as the group discusses M&A trends, private equity’s growin...
2025-08-1940 min
The ConTechCrewThe Real Impact of AI in Construction for Leaders to Tackle Broken Processes and Data Centre DemandsIn this special roundtable episode of The ConTech Crew, Jeff Sample is joined by Jonathan Marsh, CEO of SteelToe Consulting and a technology strategist, Nathan Wood, Founder & Chief Enabling Officer At SpectrumAEC, Travis Voss, Director of Innovative Technology and Fabrication at SMACNA and Jacob D’Albora, Director of Digital Building Operations at VIATechnik for a spirited conversation on the convergence of AI and construction. With insights rooted in practical experience, the group digs into what’s hype, what’s real, and what’s starting to deliver value on jobsites and across the back office.The first half of the e...
2025-08-1238 min
Clear the AirEpisode 11- Cameron Page (CEO, Clearstory Technologies)Cameron Page, CEO of SMACNA Silver Associate Member Clearstory Technologies, joins Seth for this episode. During the discussion, Cameron talks about how his experience as a general contractor and the challenges surrounding change orders led him to found Clearstory, and he outlines how his firm's product offerings can help SMACNA contractors navigate one of the most challenging aspects of their business.
2025-07-2215 minClear the AirEpisode 10- Megan Pope (Executive Vice President, SMRCA)Megan Pope, Executive Vice President of Sheet Metal & Roofing Contractors Association of the Miami Valley, Ohio, joins Seth for this episode. Megan talks about how being an association professional is "in the family," some of the challenges and opportunities that she's discovered during her professional journey. She also provides some words of wisdom for her fellow SMACNA Chapter Executives.
2025-07-1514 min
PreserveCastTrades Takeover with John Chan of Durable RestorationTrades Takeover is back! In this episode, Director of Historic Trades Natalie Henshaw speaks with John Chan, Principal and Executive VP for the Durable Slate Company. John is a nationally recognized expert in historic roofing and a passionate advocate for preserving traditional roofing methods. He started slate, tile and copper roofing at The Durable Slate Company while on college summer breaks in 1986 and joined the company full-time in 1989 after graduating from UCLA. After working through the ranks in the field, he became a principal of the company in 1992. In 1996, he relocated to open the Cincinnati branch, then went on...
2025-07-1453 minClear the AirEpisode 9- Rainier Metal WorksSeth sits with Ryan Hoggatt, Kirk Mansanarez, and Caitlin Perez Robichaux from Rainier Metal Works in Seattle in this episode. Seth talks with the Rainier team about their progress since we visited them in the fall for the Contractor Spotlight video featuring their shop. We discuss how the business is performing and its recipe for sustained growth. To catch up on the Rainier story, click here to watch the Contractor Spotlight featuring Rainier.
2025-05-2916 min
The Art of ConstructionTech, trades, and transformation: a conversation with Travis Voss
"Don't be too busy being busy. It's always good to engage in events, associations, and larger industry ideas and attack the problems from the root."
In this conversation, Devon Tilly chats with Travis Voss from SMACNA! If you hear any background noise, that's because this episode was recorded LIVE at the AEC Integration Summit in Austin!
As the Director of Innovative Technology and Fabrication at the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA), Travis leverages his background in the tech field to explore, adapt, and potentially develop technologies and workflows for the construction industry...
2025-05-2235 minClear the AirSpecial Edition Interview featuring SMACNA President Tom Martin and SMART General President Mike ColemanThis special edition of Clear the Air features a discussion between SMACNA President Tom Martin and SMART General President Mike Coleman. The two discussed their relationship from their time together in Cleveland and throughout their rise through the national ranks of their respective organizations. The conversation also focused on their mutual priorities and the need to collaborate.
2025-05-1518 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 36: Ron Palmerick (AABCO Sheet Metal Company)In the latest episode of Let's Talk Shop, Angie sits down with Ron Palmerick, Vice President of AABCO Sheet Metal Company. Angie and Ron discuss Ron's years in the industry, detailing his journey from the beginning to becoming an essential member of the SMACNA community. Ron takes a moment to share his years of experience in the industry, including his work in National Leadership (such as serving as SMACNA President), securing industry funds, and advocating on the political front for our industry.
2025-05-0635 minClear the AirEpisode 8- Felipe Raats (SMACNA Brasil)Felipe Raats of SMACNA Brasil join Seth for a comprehensive discussion of the state of the industry in Brazil and how SMACNA plays a huge part in elevating the space. The discussion examines several critical topics, including how healthcare is becoming a dominant business line for contractors in the country.
2025-04-0913 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 35 - SMACNA President Tom MartinSMACNA President Tom Martin joins Angie Simon for the latest Let's Talk Shop episode! Angie and Tom talk about his upbringing and listen to his story about how he came through the industry and his inspiration to serve SMACNA. They also take a moment to talk about his priorities for the presidency and early observations about his term.
2025-04-0229 minClear the AirEpisode 7- Austin Keating (SNIPS News)For the latest episode, Seth is joined by Austin Keating, the editor of SNIPS News. Seth and Austin talk about what the tariffs could mean for the entire industry, as well as examining some of the other critical topics throughout the space and what stakeholders need to know about whats to come.
2025-04-0218 minClear the AirEpisode 6- Let's Get Ready for the CEA National Issues Conference (Denise Murphy McGraw)SMACNA's own Denise Murphy McGraw joins Seth to discuss the upcoming CEA National Issues Conference in Washington, DC. The two talk about the value of attending this top-tier event, detail some of the issues that will be front and center during the conference, and preview a little bit about the program itself.
2025-03-2614 minClear the AirEpisode 5 - Let's Get Ready for Fab Forum (Featuring Travis Voss)SMACNA's own Travis Voss joins Seth to discuss the 2025 Fab Forum. The event, being held in Boston and featuring local contractor McCusker-Gill, is an opportunity for SMACNA contractors to learn more about some of the emerging fabrication technologies and best practices. Seth and Travis also discuss some of the trends that will be detailed during the educational sessions at the Fab Forum!
2025-03-1809 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 34- Kevin Gill, Sr. and Kevin Gill, Jr. (McCusker-Gill)Angie Simon is joined by Kevin Gill, Sr. and Kevin Gill Jr. from Boston-based McCusker-Gill. The panel talks about the history of the company, it's family-based approach and how the firm has evolved. The upcoming 2025 Fab Forum is also discussed as the Kevins talk about how excited they are to participate in this event and what SMACNA contractors should be excited about.
2025-03-1433 minClear the AirEpisode 4 - Residential Contracting (Special Episode)For a special edition of Clear the Air, Seth Lennon is joined by a special panel (Tom Mascari, Rob Schimmelpfennig, and Rob Wentzel) featuring some of SMACNA's top residential contractors. This discussion focuses on the current state of the residential sector; some current challenges contractors face, and some opportunities that could be had by engaging in the space.
2025-03-1235 minClear the AirEpisode 3- Edson Alves Junior - Star Center/SMACNA Brasil (Live at AHR Expo)From the floor of the AHR Expo in Orlando, FL, Seth Lennon is joined by Edson Alves Junior of Brazilian SMACNA Contractor Star Center. Seth and Edson discuss why being a part of SMACNA is so critical for Brazilian contractors while also discussing some of the particulars of the Brazilian marketplace and how it compares to North America.
2025-03-0606 minClear the AirEpisode 2 - SMACNA President Tom Martin (Live at AHR Expo)SMACNA President Tom Martin joins Seth Lennon on the floor at the AHR Expo in Orlando, Florida. Tom takes a moment to reflect on the early portion of his term, his goals for the association and the benefit of SMACNA being a presence at industry events such as the AHR Expo.
2025-02-2509 minClear the AirEpisode 1- What To Know About Tariffs (Aaron Hilger, SMACNA CEO)Seth Lennon is joined by SMACNA CEO Aaron Hilger to discuss the evolving tariffs on steel and aluminum currently under consideration by the Trump Administration and details what contractors should know about their impact and what the future holds.
2025-02-2409 min
The ConTechCrewAI and Data Are Taking Over MEP Leadership and VDC Tech | Travis & TrentIn this special crossover episode of The ConTech Crew and Construction Dorks, Jeff Sample teams up with Travis Voss and Trent Leinenbach to recap their time at MEP Innovation in Los Angeles. They discuss the biggest takeaways from the event, including the evolution of leadership in the MEP industry, the growing importance of data, and how AI is reshaping the construction landscape. With stories from the conference floor, reflections on the best sessions, and even a little swag critique, this episode is packed for anyone in the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing space.Key Takeaways:
2025-02-1138 min
ACHR News PodcastTony & Jess talk Rossi’s new product SNEAK PEAK at the SMACNA conventionTony Petrossian and Jessica McMillan of Rossi HVAC Hardware join SNIPS NEWS Editor Austin Keating to discuss the company's upcoming presence at the SMACNA Conference in Palm Springs, California. They emphasized the importance of market feedback in product innovation and highlighted Rossi's commitment to American manufacturing.
Sponsored by Rossi.
2024-10-1930 min
The ConTechCrewHow Contractors Can Stay Ahead in the Ever-Changing Construction IndustryEPISODE 423: How ready is your construction business for the future? If you haven’t thought about AI and automation yet, you could be missing out on something big!In this week’s episode of The ConTech Crew, my co-host Travis Voss and I sit down with Aaron Hilger, CEO of Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), and Carol Duncan, President of General Sheet Metal and SMACNA, to discuss the evolving landscape of the construction industry.This conversation dives into the importance of adopting new technologies like AI and automation in construction to stay c...
2024-08-2752 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 33- A conversation with Jason Galoozis (Premistar)Angie sits down with Jason Galoozis, Safety Director with Premistar. Angie and Jason talk about his rise through the industry as a safety professional and outline some of the best practices that companies can employ to ensure that everyone gets home safely.
2024-04-0534 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 32- Chris Hronek (SMACNA Innovator of the Year Tweet/Garot Mechanical)In this episode of Let's Talk Shop, Angie Simon chats with Chris Hronek of Tweet/Garot Mechanical and SMACNA's 2024 Innovator of the Year. Angie and Chris talk about his expierience with pushing the envelope with technological integration in a shop setting, and reflect on Chris' career path and how he got to where he is today.
2024-03-1520 min
ACHR News PodcastSMACNA UpdateThe ACHR NEWS talked with SMACNA president Carol Duncan. She is also the owner of General Sheet Metal in Clackamas, Oregon and has nearly 40 years of leadership and expertise in the sheet metal industry. Duncan talked about the outlook for 2024 and how to bring more talent into the industry.
2024-02-2714 min
The People BusinessEp. 26 - Craig Berman - It's Only Air ConditioningCraig Berman, CEO of Geauga Mechanical and VP of Cleveland SMACNA, joins us to explore the evolution of his third-generation family business. We'll dive into the significance of fostering a fun work environment and how it's propelled their company to unprecedented heights. Tune in as we uncover the secrets behind their thriving culture. #CraigBerman #GeaugaMechanical #ClevelandBusiness #SMACNA #FamilyBusiness #WorkplaceCulture #BusinessEvolution #FunWorkEnvironment #ThrivingCulture #IndustryLeaders
2024-02-0838 min
HVAC CHATSSMACNA President Carol Duncan Shares News on Big InitiativesListen as Carol Duncan shares her beginnings in the industry and describes SMACNA initiatives designed to increase inclusion and diversity and grow the ranks of SMACNA members.
2023-12-2806 minHVAC CHATSSMACNA President Carol Duncan Shares News on Big InitiativesListen as Carol Duncan shares her beginnings in the industry and describes SMACNA initiatives designed to increase inclusion and diversity and grow the ranks of SMACNA members.
2023-12-2806 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 31- A Conversation with Steve Zahm (Procore)In the latest episode of Lets Talk Shop, Angie sits down with Steve Zahm, President and Chief Culture Officer with SMACNA Premier Partner Procore. During their converation, Angie and Steve talk about the origins of Procore and the work they are doing within the industry, along with outlining how to build a strong company culture that encourages innovation through collaboration.
2023-09-2845 min
TALKING SMARTA Conversation about the Belonging and Excellence for All Initiative
In this Talking SMART special episode, SMART General President Michael Coleman, SMACNA President Anthony Kocurek and returning guest host Dushaw Hockett discuss the Belonging and Excellence for All initiative, also known as BE4ALL.
Their conversation, which took place at the end of August 2023 during the SMART Leadership Conference, explores why BE4ALL is so vital for the unionized sheet metal industry as we enter a period of unprecedented opportunity.
“We have some projects where the workforce for that project alone exceeds the amount of members we have in that entire local,” said GP Cole...
2023-09-2636 min
ACHR News PodcastIndoor Air Quality in Schools with SMACNASMACNA president Tony Kocurek talks about how HVAC contractors can improve the indoor air quality in schools.
2023-08-2422 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 30- Robert Beck (CEO of the John W. Danforth Company and MCAA National President)In the latest Let's Talk Shop installment, Angie Simon sits down with Robert Beck, the CEO of the John W. Danforth Company and the National President of MCAA. During their conversation, Angie and Robert talk about his rise through the ranks of John W. Danforth, his priorities for his term as MCAA's National President, and how he seeks to collaborate with SMACNA and NECA on initiatives such as the MEP Innovation Conference. The two also dive into John W. Danforth's work with the Heavy Metal Summer Experience.
2023-07-2836 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 28: Chris Walker (Executive Vice President, CAL SMACNA)Angie Simon is joined by Chris Walker, Executive Vice President of CAL SMACNA. Angie and Chris discuss how he started with SMACNA, outline some of his legislative work on behalf of the industry in California, and talk about his ongoing initative to improve awareness about the need for enhanced indoor air quality.
2023-06-0937 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 29- Steve Richman (Milwaukee Tool)In the latest episode of Let's Talk Shop, Angie Simon sits down with Steve Richman, Group President with SMACNA Premier Partner Milwaukee Tool. During their discussion, Angie and Steve talk about his career with Milwaukee Tool, the company's long history of innovation within the industry, and the value of their SMACNA Premier Partnership.
2023-06-0832 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 27- A Conversation with SMART General President Michael ColemanFor the latest installment of Let's Talk Shop, Angie Simon is joined by Michael Coleman, the newly installed General President of SMART. Angie and Mike talk about Mike's rise through the trades, his priorities in his new position, the relationship between SMACNA and SMART, and the legacy of his predecessor, Joseph Sellers.
2023-05-3140 min
ACHR News PodcastSMACNA Emphasizes Heat Safety, Mental Health During Safety WeekSafety Contributor Mike McCullion interviews the director of safety at SMACNA, Justin Crandol, about the safety priorities of SMACNA.
2023-05-0402 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 26- A Conversation With Linda JenningsAngie Simon sits down with Linda Jennings, SMACNA's new Executive Director of Market Sectors and Construction Technology. Angie and Linda talk about how Linda grew up in the industry, some of her expieriences as she rose up through the trades and SMACNA as a chapter executive, and what her goals are for her new role at SMACNA headquarters.
2023-04-2836 minLet's Talk ShopEpisode 25- A Conversation with SMACNA CEO Aaron HilgerFor this episode, Angie Simon is joined by SMACNA CEO Aaron Hilger. Angie and Aaron reflect on his first year as SMACNA's CEO and also delve into SMACNA's new strategic plan and what it means for the organization and the industry as a whole.
2023-03-2032 min
Toolbox for the TradesBite Off What You Can Chew: The Project Management PlaybookContractor associations are in a unique position of being able to draw talent from their membership pool to tackle big projects. And the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association, or SMACNA, is no exception.
As an international group with chapters across four countries, SMACNA bids on multiple “mega” projects involving thousands of workers. But even an organization as large as theirs has to be wary of biting off more than it can chew.
SMACNA’s CEO, Aaron Hilger, shares his valuable insights on project management, strategies for growth, and elevating universal opinio...
2023-01-3139 minLet's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop- Episode 24- A Conversation about Safety (Featuring SMOHIT's Aldo Zambetti and SMACNA's Justin Crandol)For the latest episode of Let's Talk Shop, Angie Simon is joined by Aldo Zambetti, Administrator of the Sheet Metal Occupational Health Institute Trust (SMOHIT) and Justin Crandol, Director of Safety at SMACNA. During their discussion, Angie, Aldo, and Justin talk about some of the work that SMOHIT is doing to promote safety in the workplace. They also go into detail about one of the topics that is very important to both of them, promoting mental health awareness within the sheet metal and HVAC industry.
2022-12-2845 min
Associations Thrive11. Associations Thrive - Aaron Hilger, CEO or SMACNA, on Creating Intentional Culture with Remote StaffDoes a chapter executive make for a good CEO of the national association? How do you foster engagement among longtime members? And what do you do when your industry is just begging for people to join?In this episode of Associations Thrive host Joanna Pineda interviews Aaron Hilger, CEO, Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA). Aaron introduces the SMACNA, shares his journey to becoming CEO, and then shares how SMACNA is increasing engagement among members and potential recruits. He talks about:How chapter leaders are often overlooked as potential leaders of the national or...
2022-12-1532 min
Innovation Overload#58: Angie Simon“Innovation involves a lot of technology, but I look at innovation as change and being not afraid to change. How can we change the industry to make it better?” Angie Simon, past President of SMACNA and Advisor to the Board at Western Allied Mechanical, shares her take on innovation after 35 years in the specialty trades. As a trailblazer who became President of her contracting company in 2008 just as the recession hit and who became the first female President of SMACNA in 2019 just before the pandemic, Angie is no stranger to championing innovation during uncertainty. Hear her story and her exciti...
2022-12-0933 minLet's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop Episode 23- A conversation with SMACNA's Chief Economist, Dr. Anirban BasuIn the latest episode of Let's Talk Shop, Angie Simon is joined by Dr. Anirban Basu, CEO of the Sage Policy Group and SMACNA's Chief Economist. During their discussion, Angie and Dr. Basu talk about a variety of topics, including the overall economic picture and how it will impact the industry, along with examining what specific market sectors will present the most potent growth opportunities over the coming months.
2022-11-2836 min
Construction BrothersHow Baseball Strategies Can Improve Your Team (feat. Angie Simon)Take me out to the ballgame! Today we’re re-airing a really fun conversation we had last year with Angie Simon. Angie can hit a nasty curveball, but when she’s not standing at the plate, she’s working in one of these roles: Advisor to the Board at Western Allied Mechanical. (She was CEO when we recorded this interview last year.)Immediate Past President Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA)When we conducted this interview, she was WAM’s CEO. President and co-founder of the Heavy Metal Summer Experience (HMSE), a great program that introduces high school stu...
2022-11-0236 min
TALKING SMARTBelonging and Excellence for All (BE4ALL)
This episode, we’re talking about the Belonging and Excellence for All project, also known as Be4All. As a joint effort of SMART, union signatory contractors in SMACNA, and the International Training Institute, the project is tasked with working to ensure that all members, particularly those from historically underrepresented groups, feel welcome and experience all the opportunities that come with being a union member. In short, Be4All is a bold, long-term effort to transform the unionized sheet metal industry by creating workplace and business environments that are welcoming and foster belonging for ALL workers and co...
2022-10-0550 min
Let's Talk ShopLets Talk Shop Episode 22 - A discussion with Nate Oland, Federated InsuranceIn the latest edition of Let's Talk Shop, Angie Simon sits down with Nate Oland, Senior National Account Executive with SMACNA Premier Partner Federated Insurance. During their discussion, Angie and Nate talk about all of the ways that SMACNA collaborates with Federated in terms of products and services, as well as some of the issues that contractors need to be aware of, such as cyber security.
2022-09-2928 min
Let's Talk ShopLets Talk Shop Episode 21: A Conversation With Joseph Sellers, Jr., General President, SMARTFor the latest episode of Let's Talk Shop, Angie Simon is joined by Joseph Sellers, Jr., the General President of The International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers (SMART). Angie and Joe talk about the collaboration between SMACNA and SMART on issues such as diversity in the workplace and workforce development. They also delve into some other topics, including the need to improve the country's HVAC infrastructure in the wake of COVID-19.
2022-07-2840 min
Let's Talk ShopLets Talk Shop Episode 20: A conversation with Rick Blazier, COO of Southland IndustriesAngie Simon is joined by Rick Blazier, COO of Southland Industries. Angie and Rick talk about Southland's recent acquisition of the Brandt Companies and its impact on the company. They also take a moment to talk about workforce development and some general trends going on in the industry.
2022-07-1425 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 19: A Conversation with Bill Zahner (CEO/Chairman, A. Zahner Co.)Angie Simon sits down with Bill Zahner, CEO/Chairman of A. Zahner Co. Angie and Bill talk about some of the incredible and diverse projects his company has been working on and some of the trends that are starting to develop within the industry. The two also talk about how Bill's passion for working with different metals began at a young age and continues to grow to this very day.
2022-06-3030 min
Let's Talk ShopLets Talk Shop Episode 18: A Conversation with SMACNA CEO Aaron HilgerAngie Simon sits down with SMACNA CEO Aaron Hilger to talk about his first 100 days in the role, his background and prior experience, and outline some of his goals for the organization.
2022-06-0234 min
The Lean Construction Blog's PodcastEpisode 14 - Tom Soles, Guy Gast, Jim Morgan : Addressing The Skill Labor ShortageWatch on Youtube.The pandemic and the invasion of Ukraine have left all of us in the design and construction industry short of supplies and lack of clarity. Add to that the labour shortages that are evident in construction and we have a difficult time responding to a very hot construction market. Dick Bayer talks with Tom Soles, Jim Morgan and Guy Gast about how the mechanical trades are responding to these challenges. Tom Soles was Executive Director of Member Services for SMACNA until his retirement in 2020. He continues his service to the industry as Executive Director of...
2022-04-1758 min
Tradeswork: The Rocky Mountain MCA PodcastWho Is SMACNA Colorado? featuring Nathan CooperOn this episode of Tradeswork: The Rocky Mountain Mechanical Contractors Association Podcast, we welcome Nathan Cooper, Executive Director of The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) Colorado Chapter. SMACNA Colorado represents over 50 Contractor Members and 25 Associate Members who manufacture and supply our Contractors with equipment and materials. Nathan began as SMACNA Colorado’s Executive Director in January of 2018 and leads the association’s efforts in labor relations, education, advocacy and management of multiemployer health, retirement and training benefit funds.
Here are some of the questions you can expect to be answered on this show:
Wha...
2022-02-0118 min
IAQ RadioEd Light, CSP, CIH - Practice to Research: IEQ Lessons from the Real WorldThis week we're going to explore some Practice to Research with real world examples from Mr. Ed Light. Ed has been doing research on his own projects and has some interesting results to pass along to our audience. We'll be discussing mold growth and climate change, MERV 8 vs. MERV 13 for particulate control and a critique of research support for COVID response measures in buildings.
Ed Light holds degrees in Environmental Science from the University of Massachusetts (B.S.) and Marshall University (M.S.), is a Senior Fellow of the American Industrial Hygiene Association, has authored over 40 scientific publications on assessment and...
2022-01-211h 03
NECA LiveDecember 13, 2021: Join NECA at the MEP Innovation ConferenceDavid Meade is joined by Tauhira Ali, NECA Executive Director of Industry Innovation, to discuss NECA’s role in the upcoming MEP Innovation Conference, held in collaboration with MCAA and SMACNA. Hear why electrical contractors should join Tauhira in Tampa this January 24–26.
2021-12-1413 min
Happiest Places To Work Podcast10 - Engineering A Better World with Western Allied Mechanical's Angie SimonsYour host, Starlett Henderson, talks with Angie Simons of Western Allied Mechanical and SMACNA. Angie is a CEO and President in the trades arena, working to make positive impacts on the world through inclusiveness and being planet conscious.To learn more visit https://www.westernallied.com/
2021-09-0821 min
Construction BrothersHow Baseball Strategies Can Improve Your Team (feat. Angie Simon)Angie Simon dives into how communication within team sports mimics the communication necessary to build a successful construction team. As CEO of Western Allied for over three decades and President of the Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA), Angie drops some serious truth bombs about communication, project management, & diversity within the construction industry. As a bonus, we discuss the workforce shortage within the trades and the creative way Angie plans to tackle it head-on. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the construction industry, young or old. Plus, Eddie gets to talk about his favorite thing - b...
2021-06-2336 minIAQ RadioEd Light, CSP, CIH - Round Up with Don Weekes, CIH, CSP - COVID 19 Practice to Research; Best Practices for Schools and MoreEd Light holds degrees in Environmental Science from the University of Massachusetts (B.S.) and Marshall University (M.S.), is a Senior Fellow of the American Industrial Hygiene Association, has authored over 40 scientific publications on assessment and control of the indoor environment and has chaired several national scientific committees. In the 1980’s, Ed established the West Virginia Department of Health IAQ Program, pioneering efforts to resolve exposure issues related to formaldehyde, asbestos, and termiticides. In the 1990’s, he developed widely used protocols for addressing IEQ complaints (published by EPA, NIOSH and ISIAQ) and managing air quality in occupied buildings under...
2021-06-1153 min
The Construction Leading Edge PodcastThe CEO Role, Leadership Transitions & DNA Statements with Angie SimonEPISODE 215: What you'll hear about in this construction podcast episode: - 3 DNA statements at Western Allied. - Keys to successful transition of leadership from one generation to the next. - One of Angie's favorite failures, and what she learned about rolling out a new process. - One thing that surprised her about being CEO, and her top priorities in that role. - Unconscious biases. - Angie's advice to young women who want to move into senior leadership. - The difference between diversity and inclusion.
2021-06-071h 06The Construction Leading Edge PodcastThe CEO Role, Leadership Transitions & DNA Statements with Angie SimonEPISODE 215: What you'll hear about in this construction podcast episode: - 3 DNA statements at Western Allied. - Keys to successful transition of leadership from one generation to the next. - One of Angie's favorite failures, and what she learned about rolling out a new process. - One thing that surprised her about being CEO, and her top priorities in that role. - Unconscious biases. - Angie's advice to young women who want to move into senior leadership. - The difference between diversity and inclusion.
2021-06-071h 06
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 17: Chuck Gulledge on the Future of Our IndustryIn Episode 17 of Let’s Talk Shop, host Angie Simon, CEO, Western Allied Mechanical, chats with ASHRAE President Chuck Gulledge about his tenure as president in the times of COVID and the opportunities he capitalized on to meet more members than he might have otherwise.
2021-06-0343 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 16: Diversity and Equity in the IndustryIn Episode 16 of Let’s Talk Shop, host Angie Simon, CEO, Western Allied Mechanical, chats with Leah Rambo, Training Director and Fund Administrator at Sheet Metal Workers Local 28, about the diversity requirements required in the building trades in NYC and how they ensure opportunities in the trade remain equitable and competitive.
2021-05-1244 min
The Construction DorkcastDorkCast Episode 24 - We didn't want it to end!Here we are at episode 23… or 24? Yeah it’s 24. I think. Whatever. Coming off the heels of the MCAA’s MEP Innovation Conference we decided we wanted to keep the party going and brought in the puppet master of the event, Sean McGuire. We touch on a lot of topics revolving around the conference, contractors helping contractors, and how great it was to bring in SMACNA and NECA and make this a great big happy family event.
2021-05-071h 12
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 15: Indoor Air Quality and the Reopening of BuildingsLet's Talk Shop, Episode 15: Indoor Air Quality and the Reopening of Buildings by SMACNA
2021-04-0730 min
Let's Talk ShopLets Talk Shop, Episode 14: Celebrate Women In Construction WeekEpisode 14 celebrates Women in Construction Week. Host Angie Simon, SMACNA president and CEO of Western Allied Mechanical, talks with Carmen Koo, partner at Applied Air Conditioning in California and Sandra Mennino, president of Cambridgeport Air Systems in Massachusetts, about how they started in the construction industry, some of the challenges they have faced as women in the trades, and what opportunities are available to bring more women into the industry.
2021-03-0827 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 13: How COVID Is Impacting Operations and Innovations for 2021In Episode 13 of Let’s Talk Shop, host Angie Simon, CEO, Western Allied Mechanical and SMACNA President, talks with Kevin Ginley, VP of commercial sales at Majestic Steel, and Brennan Hall, senior HVAC project manager at Johns Manville on how their companies have adapted to stay competitive amid COVID-19, the impact of the “V-shaped recovery,” and the forecast for 2021.
2021-02-0333 min
Bridging the Gap: Insights & Innovations in ConstructionRoutine: The Enemy of InnovationWhen you think of the word innovation, what comes to mind? Can some good come out of disruption, or have you always thought of change as a bad thing? Sit down with host Todd and Angie Simon of SMACNA (The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning National Association) as they discuss the HVAC trade, the untapped resource of women in the trade workforce, and the resilience of the construction industry that has kept it afloat in a rapidly-changing world.
Angie has been a leader in the Bay Area construction industry for many years. She has been with Western...
2020-06-1044 min
TALKING SMARTEp. 5: Sheet Metal Sisters Share Their Stories
Lisa Davis
In our fifth episode of Talking SMART, we hear from members of the SMART Women's Committee. While at the Partners in Progress conference in Las Vegas in February, we had a chance to sit down and talk with four SMART sisters who have taken the lead in breaking new ground for women in the building trades. They discussed how they got into the industry, growing diversity in construction and opportunities for women in the sheet metal trade. We hear from two of them in this episode, and two more in our next episode.
Our first g...
2020-05-1942 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 12: TAB contractors and their frontline fight against COVID-19In the latest episode of Let’s Talk Shop, host Angie Simon, CEO, Western Allied Mechanical, talks with Matt Sano, president of Fisher Balancing Company, a testing and air balancing contractor, and Jennifer Lohr, a technician with the company.“We’ve been called on by our clients to get involved with them and help them prepare areas of their hospital that need to have a negative pressure for the protection of the patients and the caregivers,” says Sano. “The need to make them (hospitals) COVID-19 compliant has been a moving target,” Sano adds.Jennifer Lohr worked day and night in Philadelp...
2020-05-1221 minTALKING SMARTEp. 3: SMART Locals Work With Contractors to Help Members, Local Communities Impacted by COVID-19In the third episode of Talking SMART, we hear from two local sheetmetal leaders about how they are working with signatory contractors to help us all get through this crisis. We also hear new updates about important COVID-19 related legislative issues impacting SMART members.
Our first guest is Andy Bredeson, business manager of Local 45 in Des Moines, Iowa, who talks with us about a collaborative effort between his local and the area chapter of SMACNA to collect N-95 face masks and donate them to a local hospital that desperately needs them.
We also talk with J...
2020-04-1338 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 11: COVID-19This episode of Let’s Talk Shop features host Angie Simon talking about how she and other contractors are dealing with the issues and shutdowns related to the spread of COVID-19. Rick Hermanson, CEO of Hermanson Company, and Joseph Lansdell, president of Poynter Sheet Metal, discuss working remotely, how they are handling safety and operations on jobsites, what changes they foresee concerning future operations, and if there is any shining light to be gained from the current situation.
2020-04-0133 min
Let's Talk ShopLets Talk Shop, Episode 10: Carol and Ashley Duncan of General Sheet MetalFor Women in Construction Week, SMACNA president Angie Simon, CEO of Western Allied Mechanical, talks with Carol Duncan, CEO, and her daughter Ashley Duncan, mechanical division manager at General Sheet Metal. General Sheet Metal has grown from 25 people when Carol took over the company to 180 employees today. Ashley officially joined the company in 2015 and has taken more of a leadership role. Carol and Ashley speak about the culture at GSM and their belief in servant leadership and people first. “Relationships are the most important, “ says Carol, “and that is reflected in the growth of the company.”
2020-03-0517 min
Let's Talk ShopLets Talk Shop, Episode 9: City Logistics with Al LabellaLets Talk Shop, Episode 9: City Logistics with Al Labella by SMACNA
2020-02-0622 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 8: Integrated Project Delivery with Matt CramerWhat are the benefits of integrated project delivery? In this episode of Let’s Talk Shop, Angie Simon, CEO of Western Allied Mechanical and SMACNA president, talks with Matt Cramer, president, Dee Cramer, on how he got started with integrated project delivery (IPD). Dee Cramer has completed eight IPD projects in Michigan and have noticed a great increase in customer satisfaction when using this process.
2020-01-0823 min
Let's Talk ShopLets Talk Shop, Episode 7: What We Can Learn from AustraliaIn Episode 7 of Let's Talk Shop, host Angie Simon, President, Western Allied Mechanical and SMACNA President-elect, is in Australia with Russell Telford, managing director of A.G. Coombs and national President of the Air Conditioning & Mechanical Contractors Association (AMCA) and Sumit Oberoi, National Director of AMCA and SMACNA Chapter Executive. They talk about some of the similarities and differences in Australia versus the United States, particularly with prefabrication and modularization as well as workforce issues.
2019-10-1722 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 6: Lean Construction with James MorganIn Episode 6 of Let’s Talk Shop, host Angie Simon, President of Western Allied Mechanical, talks with James Morgan, President, and CEO of Worcester Air Conditioning in Ashland, Mass, about lean construction techniques.
2019-10-1722 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 5: Smoke/Fire Damper Testing with Tony KocurekIn Episode 5 of Let's Talk Shop, host Angie Simon President, of Western Allied Mechanical, and SMACNA President-elect talks to Tony Kocurek, owner of Energy Balance and Integration LLC in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Their conversation centers on smoke/fire damper testing and certification. Tony talks about his work in air testing and balancing as well as how his company got started in fire/life safety and its implications for contractors.
2019-08-1221 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 4: Employee Stock Ownership Plans with Joe IsomJoe Isom, vice president (former president), California Sheet Metal is featured in this episode of Let’s Talk Shop. Host Angie Simon, president, Western Allied Mechanical, and SMACNA president-elect talks with Joe about his company’s conversion to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). They discuss how this succession strategy has improved the culture of the company and how it has changed the way staff and leadership view their roles at California Sheet Metal.
2019-07-1218 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 3: Peer GroupsIn Episode 3 of Let’s Talk Shop, host Angie Simon, CEO of Western Allied Mechanical and SMACNA President, sits down with Matt Cramer of Dee Cramer, Inc. and Jack Knox of R.F. Knox Company. This conversation takes a look at peer groups and their value to the industry.
2019-07-0621 minIAQ RadioJoe Medosch - Hayward Score - The Business of Healthy HomesThis week we look forward to a conversation with home performance and IAQ industry veteran Joe Medosch of Hayward Score. Joe is one of the smartest people in the industry and not just book smart, he has been there and done that with almost 30 years of experience as a contractor and 10 as a master trainer. Joe has deep experience in the home performance field, especially in the areas of health and energy-efficiency. His expertise includes building science and diagnostics, IAQ/IEQ assessments and home performance. He has a long history of involvement with the ICC, BPI, RESNET, SMACNA, and ASTM. He...
2019-06-281h 10
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) RadioEPISODE 552: Joe Medosch – Hayward Score – The Business of Healthy HomesThis week we look forward to a conversation with home performance and IAQ industry veteran Joe Medosch of Hayward Score. Joe is one of the smartest people in the industry and not just book smart, he has been there and done that with almost 30 years of experience as a contractor and 10 as a master trainer. Joe has deep experience in the home performance field, especially in the areas of health and energy-efficiency. His expertise includes building science and diagnostics, IAQ/IEQ assessments and home performance. He has a long history of involvement with the ICC, BPI, RESNET, SMACNA, and ASTM...
2019-06-2820 min
Construction GeniusHow to Innovate"Business has only two functions — marketing and innovation." Peter Drucker Marketing is about creating and keeping customers Innovation concentrates on creating new levels of performance in one of three areas: people, product, and processes. Innovation is hard because it requires change and doesn't always work; therefore it gets resisted. Angie Simon, President of Western Allied Mechanical, Inc. and incoming President of Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA), joins me again. Today's topic, how to implement process innovation, successfully. Western Allied Mechanical, Inc. is an $85 million-dollar mec...
2019-06-1116 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 1:Trends in PrefabricationProduced by SMACNA, Let’s Talk Shop is hosted by Angie Simon, President of Western Allied Mechanical and SMACNA President-Elect. The first episode features Joseph Lansdell, President of Poynter Sheet Metal, on trends in prefabrication and its impact on the industry. The 20-minute conversation focuses on why and how contractors should get started with prefabrication and what cultural shifts need to happen to make the transition successful. As owners of large and small sheet metal shops, Angie and Joseph talk about the issues they have encountered as well as the benefits.
2019-05-2922 min
Let's Talk ShopLet's Talk Shop, Episode 2: Solutions First: Full Service Design-BuildIn Episode 2 of Let’s Talk Shop, host Angie Simon, President, of Western Allied Mechanical, and SMACNA President-Elect talks with Guy Gast, President, The Waldinger Corporation, Iowa Division. Their conversation focuses on their companies’ journey into design-build and how this system has benefited their businesses. They discuss the highlights of a solutions-first approach and the advantages of being a one-stop shop for their customers.
2019-05-2319 minIAQ RadioEd Light, CSP, CIH & Paul Haas, CSP, CIH - Moisture & Mold; Practical Answers to Complex QuestionsToday on Iaqradio+ we welcome Ed Light and Paul Haas. They're CIH's but actually work with contractors to solve building problems! The "dynamic duo" (Ed and Paul are with the Indoor Air/Mechanical Engineering consulting firm, Building Dynamics), will address elusive questions such as, "Will mold grow here?" and "What do these moisture readings mean?" We are also going to have a special musical introduction from Ed Light.
Mr. Light holds degrees in Environmental Science from the University of Massachusetts (B.S.) and Marshall University (M.S.), is a Senior Fellow of the American Industrial Hygiene Association, has authored over 40 sc...
2019-04-261h 12
Construction GeniusHow One Mechanical Contractor Has Blown Away Industry Hiring Norms for WomenAngie Simon, President of Western Allied Mechanical, Inc. and incoming President of Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA), joins us today to talk about her thirty-year journey of working for and going up the ranks in the male-dominated industry of construction. Western Allied Mechanical, Inc. is an $85 million dollar mechanical contractor in the Silicon Valley of California who employs over 220 people. SMACNA, on the other hand, is an industry association representing over 1,800 mechanical contractors in the United States and Canada. In this episode we cover: The slow increase of the number of...
2019-01-2322 minIAQ RadioEPISODE458 - Ed Light - EnLightening New AIHA White Paper on VOC CriteriaMr. Light holds degrees in Environmental Science from the University of Massachusetts (B.S.) and Marshall University (M.S.), is a Senior Fellow of the American Industrial Hygiene Association, has authored over 40 scientific publications on assessment and control of the indoor environment and has chaired several national scientific committees. In the 1980s, Ed established the West Virginia Department of Health IAQ Program, pioneering efforts to resolve exposure issues related to formaldehyde, asbestos, and termiticides. In the 1990s, he developed widely used protocols for addressing IEQ complaints (published by EPA, NIOSH and ISIAQ) and managing air quality in occupied buildings under...
2017-05-0556 minIndoor Air Quality (IAQ) RadioEPISODE458 - Ed Light - EnLightening New AIHA White Paper on VOC CriteriaMr. Light holds degrees in Environmental Science from the University of Massachusetts (B.S.) and Marshall University (M.S.), is a Senior Fellow of the American Industrial Hygiene Association, has authored over 40 scientific publications on assessment and control of the indoor environment and has chaired several national scientific committees. In the 1980s, Ed established the West Virginia Department of Health IAQ Program, pioneering efforts to resolve exposure issues related to formaldehyde, asbestos, and termiticides. In the 1990s, he developed widely used protocols for addressing IEQ complaints (published by EPA, NIOSH and ISIAQ) and managing air quality in occupied buildings under...
2017-05-0500 minSNIPS PodcastsMeet SMACNA’s new presidentA conversation with Guy Gast, new president of the Sheet Metal and Air-Conditioning Contractors’ National Association, on what the Iowa HVAC construction company president expects for the sheet metal works industry in 2016.
2016-02-0509 minSNIPS PodcastsSMACNA rides into TexasSheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association President Randy Novak talks about the group's conference this month in San Antonio.
2014-10-0108 minSNIPS PodcastsChanging it upSNIPS talks to SMACNA Greater Chicago Executive Vice President Tony Adolfs about why the group moved its annual sheet metal works trade show to April from its traditional date in late March.
2014-05-0804 minSNIPS PodcastsA talk with SMACNA President Randy NovakSNIPS interviews Randy Novak of Novak Heating and Air Conditioning about how his year as president of the Sheet Metal and Air-Conditioning Contractors’ National Association is going.
2014-04-0123 min
ACHR News PodcastNEWSMaker: Randy NovakRandy Novak, owner of Novak Heating and Air Conditioning (novakheating.com) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, took over as president of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) in October. In this podcast, he discusses the future of the organization, including what challenges SMACNA may face in the next year and how he plans to help the organization overcome those challenges.
2013-10-2211 minSNIPS PodcastsSheet metal in the Land of LincolnThis month’s podcast was recorded March 26, 2013, at the SMACNA Chicago trade show in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill. We ask association Executive Director Tony Adolfs what’s the secret to a long-running, successful HVAC trade show, and how member contractors are faring in the current economy.
2013-04-0206 min
HVAC 360H3-049 Duct Leakage TestingThis week on HVAC 360, I talk to Mark Terzigni, a project manager at SMACNA who talks this week about Duct Leakage, System Leakage, Duct Construction, and How to test it. There is a lot of information going on in this episode so I hope you like it. If you do then pass it on. Enjoy. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
2012-07-2300 minIAQ RadioEPISODE168- Andrew K. Persily, Ph.D. National Insitute for Standards & TechThis week we interview Andrew Persily, Ph.D. of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Dr. Persily works on indoor air quality and ventilation in commercial and residential buildings. His work includes the development and application of measurement techniques to evaluate airflow and air quality characteristics in a variety of building types, including large, mechanically ventilated buildings and single-family dwellings. Mr. Persily was also the Steering Committee Chair of the recently published ASHRAE Design Guide "Indoor Air Quality Guide- Best Practices for Design, Construction and Commissioning". This project was a collaboration between ASHRAE, AIA, BOMA, SMACNA, EPA and the...
2010-05-211h 11Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) RadioEPISODE168- Andrew K. Persily, Ph.D. National Insitute for Standards & TechThis week we interview Andrew Persily, Ph.D. of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Dr. Persily works on indoor air quality and ventilation in commercial and residential buildings. His work includes the development and application of measurement techniques to evaluate airflow and air quality characteristics in a variety of building types, including large, mechanically ventilated buildings and single-family dwellings. Mr. Persily was also the Steering Committee Chair of the recently published ASHRAE Design Guide "Indoor Air Quality Guide- Best Practices for Design, Construction and Commissioning". This project was a collaboration between ASHRAE, AIA, BOMA, SMACNA, EPA and the...
2010-05-2100 min