By / Jessica Kirby • Editor, Sheet Metal Journal
I know I say it every year, but even after 14 years of publishing Sheet Metal Journal, I still feel flabbergasted that the last issue of the calendar year approaches so quickly and with such gusto. One minute I am revelling in my autumn suntan and carving pumpkins, and the next I am filing construction outlook stories, writing the annual survey, and harassing Bruce for his last editorial of the year. It’s kind of double trouble, too, because we try to get ahead for January so we can take a much needed break over the holidays. I hope that is your plan, too.
This issue’s cover story looks at Northwest Sheet Metal’s work on part of a powertrain system for electric vehicles. The ability to grasp new projects and tackle the challenges that come with thinking outside the box is essential to surviving in any climate. Check out page 8 to see how Northwest tackled that project and what they attribute to its success.
When you think of the keys to a prosperous business, certain things come immediately to mind—cash flow, a skilled workforce, favourable market conditions—but what about good mojo with your business partner? Cindy Pugh and Mike Davis have been working together for enough years to know that finding a solid business partner can make business, especially in tough times. Find out on page 10 how they have made their business thrive.
And finally, there is never a bad time to set up a mentoring program in your business. Coaching and mentoring in any industry, but especially construction, is an important confidence- and skill-building strategy and helps to address the labour shortage in a holistic way. See more about coaching and mentoring on page 12.
If you haven’t already, please visit surveymonkey.com/r/NWLWHKD and fill out this year’s Sheet Metal Industry Survey. It is comprised of ten questions and takes about three minutes to complete. If you prefer, I will take your data and run, or if you want to contribute more I can give you a call to discuss further and include your comments in the winter feature story. Either way, the data forms the basis of our Winter 2021 Construction Outlook report for the sheet metal industry and informs SMACNA-BC’s Board of Directors and Bruce Sychuk as they establish a budget for 2021-22. It also provides important information on manpower loading and availability for the industry.
The holidays are going to be strange this year. If they aren’t a total wash, they are going to be smaller, quieter, more thoughtful. For some (like my husband) this will be a godsend but for others it will be difficult. Be sure to look out for one another and reach out in different ways to stay safely connected with those who need it most. For everyone, this will be an opportunity to take inventory of the people, things, and values that mean most and hold those close, and an opportunity to practice optimism and stillness as we look forward to a brighter 2021. Until then, be well and happiest of holidays to you all. ■
