Mark Kuelle, estimator and project manager for Austin Sheet Metal LP., is serving a four-year term as a director on SMACNA-BC’s board of directors. He is also currently a trustee for the Sheet Metal Industry Training Board. Austin Sheet Metal LP specializes in commercial and industrial sheet metal and metal fabrication. Kuelle has been a part of the sheet metal industry for 26 years, and when he entered it was because of the positivity his father experienced being part of the trade.
“My father was a sheet metal mechanic,” Kuelle says. “I saw how the trade made him detail-oriented, and I saw the pride he felt in producing quality work. I carry this same attitude with me today, and I echo his thoughts that our industry is built on quality.”
In fact, his professional philosophy, the matters he holds above all else in his work, are quality and service. Over the years, the sheet metal industry has faced many challenges, the most important of which is recruitment—the enrolment and training of personnel to fulfill the growing needs of the industry. “The sheet metal industry should really be emphasized as a viable career choice at the high school level,” Kuelle says. “Some Red Seal trades are represented, but it should be all of them.”
Of course, there have been many opportunities as well, several of which have to do with advancements in technology. Moving forward with 3D and 4D modelling for complex mechanical projects has benefits in terms of speed, productivity, and accuracy but it also places pressure on companies to keep up and be forward-thinking.
“Our challenge and opportunity is to stay ahead of advancements in technology and be the leader in adapting, changing, and modifying current SMACNA standards to suit these advancements,” Kuelle says. “Energy saving systems are becoming more and more prevalent.”
In doing so, SMACNA has an important role to play in advancing the industry’s future—continuing to set the standard for quality workmanship.
Read more about Austin Metal Fabricators LP at www.austinmetal.com ■
