Executive Vice-President, SMACNA-WW
The focus of our spring issue is to highlight education and training opportunities currently open to SMACNA-WW members. These and other association programs will provide endless avenues for personal and professional development open to SMACNA members and their employees in 2018.
The importance of continuing education can not be understated. Continuing to learn and grow as employers, employees, and individuals helps us stay well-rounded and competitive, and on top of the industry’s latest technologies and developments. Consider educational opportunities an investment in oneself and in the company’s enduring success.
SMACNA and its Programs Committee have made a focused effort to increase education offered to the membership on a national level, and we at SMACNA-WW are asking its members to promote these career-enhancing, skill-based trainings.
SMACNA–WW offered training with Nic Bittle called “The Six Million Dollar Foreman” on March 27, and an all-day executive leadership training, “Perform Like the Boss,” the following day.
We are bringing back Bluebeam training June 5 and 6. Bluebeam is about to launch a new version of the software and SMACNA-WW is one of the first to offer the updated training. Space will be limited, so look out for an invite.
April 24 we will be hosting a risk management seminar “Understanding Hidden Construction Health Hazards” that will involve DER training, an EAP program description, a session on suicide, and a final session on opioid abuse.
The SMAC–YA or Youth Leaders Committee will be hosting another networking event at a Mariners Game in late spring. This is an effort to recruit students into the mechanical and sheet metal industry, and is always an excellent time. Be sure to recommend it to any young college students within the industry
you think would benefit and enjoy the opportunity.
SMACNA–WW will be hosting a women’s luncheon and seminar in August with Stephanie McShane of Maxim Consulting. This is an effort to launch a women’s networking group that will be open to both management and field employees. Our association will also be hosting a supervisory seminar for foreman, journeymen, and future leaders at a later date, yet to be determined.
National SMACNA also has a host of seminars and training opportunities all members are welcome to—see page 16 for a comprehensive list and descriptions.
Training and education can open up a whole new world of personal and company growth. Individuals who participate in these types of opportunities on an ongoing basis are more successful in business, open to new innovations and technologies, invested in employee health and progress, and willing to self- reflect, compared with people who choose to stop learning. What are you waiting for?
