Quality and efficiency are hallmarks of WICA Nor Cal
Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important to industrial, commercial and residential customers, and insulation is a critical part of delivering a healthier, superior building. As a leader in the mechanical insulation industry, Western Insulation Contractors Association Northern California (WICA Nor Cal) knows how valuable properly designed and installed insulation can be to a business’ bottom line.
“A lot of our work is hidden in walls and ceilings where people don’t see it, but it’s still critical that we abide by industry standards and that the work is done right,” said Craig Rossi, Executive Director of WICA Nor Cal. “The better job we do, the more efficient the building is and the more money the end user can save.”
When insulated systems are maintained, facility managers and owners typically see the savings continue for the life of the system.
Recent projects involving WICA Nor Cal contractors include the Apple Park corporate headquarters in Cupertino and some larger-scale projects with Chevron and Phillips 66 refineries. No matter how big or small, every project is different in scope and insulation needs are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Fire protection, health impact, sustainability and sound insulation are just a few of the considerations when choosing the type of insulation, and often a cost benefit analysis is performed to see what makes the most sense for each application.
Rossi recognizes that the bulk of customers tend to focus on getting mechanical systems designed and installed, which pushes the insulation phase to the backburner during projects. But it’s no less important in the overall function of a building.
“Our contractors are almost always up against a time crunch, but they’re always able to accommodate. One was notified on a Friday afternoon to figure out a project and had 15 guys there on Saturday to knock it out,” Rossi said. “Customers spend so much time and effort on the mechanical system that insulation becomes an afterthought, but some of these big systems on the roof simply aren’t going to perform without the right insulation.”
WICA Nor Cal is affiliated with Heat and Frost Insulators Local 16, which gives them access to more than 600 highly-skilled union workers for projects throughout northern California. Each candidate in the heat and frost insulators apprenticeship program is trained in quality and safety standards and exposed to all different facets of the industry to “equip them with the tools they need to become more well-rounded workers,” Rossi said.
WICA Nor Cal membership includes access to support staff at the association’s office, representation in labor negotiations and opportunities to attend professional educational seminars and social events throughout the year. A popular course is the WICA Foreman Training Program, a two-day class to help shape foremen into invaluable tools for your company (and bottom line). A Bay Area SMACNA associate member for the past two years, WICA Nor Cal is looking forward to once again attending in-person events and connecting with members to elevate our entire industry.