Industry updates & Board Nominations Discussed During Advisory Retreat
Twenty-six companies were represented at the General Advisory Retreat in Paso Robles June 8-10. The retreat kicked off with a dinner and networking for members.
The General Advisory Meeting was full of engaging discussions. We were excited to welcome two first-time attendees this year; Beighly Glass of Monterey Mechanical and Frank Young of Simpson Sheet Metal. Both were excited to be participate and meet other members, and we were glad to have them!
Eli Howard from National SMACNA provided a SMACNA update, including new duct standards, software available online for members and seismic bracing standards compliant with the International Building Code. Upcoming developments include kitchen service standards, architectural wall panel certification and Spanish translations for duct design.
Although Chris Walker was unable to attend due to legislative sessions, an update on bills supported and opposed by CAL SMACNA was shared. Key bills included: AB1331 regarding surveillance systems in off-duty areas, SB 61 to cap retention at 5% in private works of improvement; SB 440 to establish timely process for payments on change-orders in private works of improvement; SB 84 provides a limited safe harbor from ADA lawsuits and a right to cure construction-related ADA violations; and SB 597 to fix the KB Homes decision for trust funds.
Mark Napier presented the financial and hour reports through April. The Training Trust update given by Paul Irwin highlighted the 108 new apprentices so far this year. Sean O’Donoghue shared the healthcare and pension update. He also went over the new five-year agreement and revised language for the MOU with SMW Local Union No. 104, and discussed nominations for the eight open board seats. Eight members had been nominated prior to the meeting. With no other nominations, Sean will follow up with the nominees for acceptance of the three-year board term. They will then be appointed during the installation of officers at the annual dinner in November.
The day concluded with a dinner at Sensorio, an enchanting field of lights featuring 100,000 glowing spheres resembling jewel-toned flowers. Attendees also enjoyed the Fiber Optic Symphonic Orchestra, showcasing 32 state-of-the-art columns of light synchronized to music, along with an immersive audiovisual experience featuring large-scale metal sculptures exploring the relationship between light, music, shadow and form.
Overall, it was another fantastic retreat, providing members with opportunities to network, meet new faces and engage in meaningful discussions about our association and industry.