Events

Heavy Metal Summer Experience (HMSE)

Across the United States a unique and exciting opportunity is sweeping through workshops for students 15 – 18: the Heavy Metal Summer Experience (HMSE). This innovative program is dedicated to introducing young people to the world of union mechanical trades. SMACNA Arizona hosted HMSE this summer (July 2025) and introduced 10 young people to the union sheet metal trade. By mixing hands-on experiences, cutting edge technology and professional mentorship, HMSE is opening doors for the next generation of union craftspeople.
At the heart of HMSE are the union sheet metal contractors, journeyman and safety personnel who volunteer to teach. As seasoned professionals, they not only bring technical skill but a deep commitment to union values and jobsite safety. Students learn about the importance of teamwork, precision and following rigorous safety protocols – skills that are crucial in mechanical trades.

HMSE doesn’t just focus on traditional sheet metal work. Instructors guided students through modern technologies used on today’s job sites. For example, participants sampled Virtual Reality (VR) welding, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Modeling (BIM) software, gaining valuable computer skills that are in high demand in the construction industry.

Of course, safety was always at the forefront. One of the early lessons was fire extinguisher safety and usage, giving the students the confidence and knowledge to protect themselves and their future coworkers.

Nothing compares to seeing your effort transformed into a tangible product. The students completed three real sheet metal projects: a toolbox, bookends and a dustpan. Each finished project went home with its maker – a reminder of newfound skills and possibilities for the future.

Each graduate from HMSE received a pair of Red Wing boots, Milwaukee tools, numerous t-shirts, a graduation metal and a $100 gift card from SMACNA Arizona as well as a delicious lunch every day. SMACNA Arizona sends a huge THANK YOU to Bel-Aire Mechanical, Superior Duct Fabrication, Southland Industries and the Phoenix Sheet Metal JATC for providing their facilities and volunteers.
The experience doesn’t end with summer. In Arizona, SMACNA Arizona aims to host HMSE again in the summer of 2026. The goal is to expand the curriculum beyond sheet metal work by incorporating plumbing and pipe fitting into the program. This will give students a broader understanding of the mechanical trades, increasing their career options and providing a richer educational experience. For more information about HMSE in Arizona call or email SMACNA Arizona 602-734-0214 or smacna@smacna-az.org.

20th Annual SMACNA Arizona Golf Tournament

The 20th Annual Invitational SMACNA Arizona Golf Tournament was a beautiful day of golf, delicious food and drinks and excellent company at the Arizona Grand Golf Club.

First place team sponsored by Bel-Aire Mechanical.  Dark
green shirt is Chris Cardone, Cody Curtis, Jimmy Pickens and Justin Smith.
They also won the traveling trophy which goes to the team that is sponsored
by a SMACNA Arizona contractor.

Second place team.  Pictured is Brandon & Bobby Henderson.
Not pictured is Josh Henderson and Jordan Barrett.
This team was also sponsored by Bel-Aire Mechanical.

3rd place team sponsored by Farwest Insulation left to right
is Joe Brown, Samantha Skolnick, Kent Gapen and Shawn Riley.

First picture – Swag table sponsored by KAEKO
Second picture – Milwaukee products on display at the 2023 golf tournament
Third picture – Drone hole sponsored by Bel-Aire Mechanical

Sheet metal volunteers help Boy Scouts explore new careers

The JATC together with the Arizona Chapter of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA-AZ) and SMART (Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation) Local 359 join efforts to train and employ those interested in sheet metal trade. The welding event on Saturday, September 19, 2015 allows the organizations to help Boy Scouts learn about the metal trade.

Boy Scouts between 5th grade and 12th grade will get hands-on experience with welding, metal bending and working with plans to create book ends and tool holders. Learn more.

SMACNA 12th Annual Invitational Golf Tournament

The team from Miko Mechanical won first place in the SMACNA Arizona Invitational Golf Tournament March 20 at the McDowell Mountain Ranch Golf Club in Scottsdale. The foursome (pictured left to right) of Ricky Haag, Robert Sliskovich, Tim Watson and Robb Taylor also won the SMACNA Arizona Traveling Trophy.

The scramble tournament drew more than 100 golfers. The networking event included lunch and a raffle.

9th ANNUAL 100 DEGREE CONTEST

Guess the first 100-degree day of 2013 and you could win a weekend getaway at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, including a two-night stay for two, spa treatments and breakfast for two. It hit 100 degrees on Sunday 04/28/2013. Congratulations to Aaron Blank from Seattle, Washington who won the 100 degree contest with an exact guess of 1:15pm on April 28. Aaron works for a public relations firm in Seattle. Thanks to everyone for participating!