Successful 2024 Convention
With more than 100 Bay Area SMACNA members and their families in attendance, the 58th Annual CAL SMACNA Convention was a great success! Held April 3-6 at the Lodge at Torrey Pines, attendees were treated to networking events, workshops and speakers.
The first workshop by Dr. Anirban Basu touched on current issues facing our industry, including inflation, unfilled construction jobs and lack of work. Nick Espinosa’s presentation underscored the significance of integrating technology on construction sites to stay competitive, noting AI can address labor shortages and enhance efficiency.
Keynote speaker Jon Dorenbos recounted his experience of losing his mother as a child, to his NFL career-ending heart issue, which led to him becoming a magician. Using magic tricks and storytelling with cards, he shared lessons on love, forgiveness and resilience in dark times.
Cal SMACNA Executive Vice President Chris Walker’s annual business meeting report was positive overall. He said that our ability to identify opportunities will be crucial for our continued progress. Our association’s partnerships have given us an advantage over non-unions, helping find new opportunities, like fire life safety and Title 24. Hours are up slightly from 2022; however, not all firms are experiencing this increase. Emphasizing the importance of attending next year’s Day at the Capitol, Chris drew attention to the Pause Pledge campaign, asking the Legislature to “hit the pause button” on all new employer mandates so they can navigate all the pre-existing burdens on California businesses.
