SMACNA Edge Conference
The SMACNA Edge: A Virtual Education Forum, SMACNA’s first virtual conference held from October 13-15, had something for everyone, including personal or professional development, aligning organizational strategy, getting better insights on new technologies and navigating changing business practices with COVID. Thousands of participants across the country joined 35 exhibitors and numerous experts to network, add resources and learn more about targeted topics to assist them in growing their businesses or careers.
Kicked off by SMACNA National President Angie Simon and CEO Vince Sandusky, the three-day event covered topics from change management, system leakage standards, diversity and inclusion, labor updates, managing a remote workforce and more. Contractors were reminded that although some projects or bids have been on hold, there are always opportunities in emerging markets. Persistence and staying connected was reiterated in the expert contractor panel discussion. Effective leaders navigate the changes and continue to build internal and client relationships through good times and bad. Carol Duncan, owner and CEO of General Sheet Metal, commented that contractors need to keep on working to build trust with their clients and staff.
Although at times it seems like the obstacles come faster than desired, Eric Anderton stated in the Strategic Selling session that “the best salespeople see (and look for) the red flags.” He shared that courageous determination, both in locating true decision makers and communicating with them, is crucial. How contractors capitalize on realigned strategies likes new technologies, staff potential and environmental regulations could provide a competitive edge in challenging times. According to Joe Sellers, SMART President, we are the go-to industry to minimize the spread of the virus, increase energy savings and minimize carbon impact. At the end of the conference, Angie Simon added that “opportunities and challenges may shift quickly in the coming months” and SMACNA National and our local chapters will be there to assist with valuable information and resources.
Bay Area SMACNA is proud to have more than a dozen member companies, totaling more than 200 Bay Area Chapter attendees, who participated in the first national virtual conference. The dedication shown to attend these informational sessions is what keeps the Bay Area Association at the forefront of the sheet metal industry.