By Jeremy Hallman, Executive Director, SMACNA-BC
Summer is winding down and we are thankfully free of wildfire smoke. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for our neighbours to the south, where both literal and economic fires continue to burn. The recurring threat of tariffs appears far from over, creating continued uncertainty in the market. While many contractors report that business remains strong—mirrored by our current hours—there’s growing concern about a shrinking pool of projects to bid on. We’re also hearing that some developers, particularly in the residential high-rise sector, are hesitating on planned projects, waiting to see how the market evolves.
If you are starting to feel the effects through purchasing or through cross border work, I would like to hear about it. Stan Kolbe, Director of Legislative Affairs for SMACNA National, is looking for specific stories to help illustrate how these tariffs are hurting business on both sides of the border. Please send me an email or contact me in the office.
New Labour Agreement Ratified
We’re pleased to announce that a new three-year labour agreement with SMART Local Union No. 280 has been ratified, covering the period from May 9, 2025, to April 30, 2028. Amid global uncertainty, we hope this brings contractors added stability and predictability in labour costs for the next few years.
A heartfelt thank-you goes out to everyone who participated in our open forum prior to negotiations, and to the dedicated members of the SMACNA-BC negotiating committee:
1. A. Paris – Apollo Sheet Metal
2. D. Sidhu – Boston Sheet Metal
3. M. Kuelle – Austin Metal Fabricators
4. M. McLaren – Ridge Sheet Metal Co.
5. T. Knowles – Piedmont Sheet Metal
6. P. McDonald – Summit Sheet Metal
7. B. Lancaster – Northern Sheet Metal
8. P. Dalzell – Keith Panel Systems
9. D. Taillefer – Viaduct Sheet Metal
10. B. Wendel – Allied Blower
ALTERNATES
11. A. Smith – Smith Sheet Metal
12. P. Charbonneau – Cascade Metal Design
13. P. Demeule – Modern Niagara Vancouver
This group committed over 40 hours in direct negotiations, not including the significant time spent preparing. Special thanks to past SMACNA-BC President Mark McLaren for his role as chairperson—your leadership and commitment were instrumental.
We also extend our appreciation to SMART Local Union No. 280. Their professionalism and preparation at every meeting helped shape a strong, mutually beneficial agreement. I believe that they represented their membership well.
To be candid, I had some concern going into these negotiations. A recent SMACNA National bargaining course I attended highlighted that new leadership on both sides can increase the risk of strike action. With both Local 280 and SMACNA-BC under new management, we were aware of that risk. Fortunately, with seasoned representatives on both sides, we worked collaboratively toward a successful outcome.
Industry Events & Engagement
In June, I joined SMACNA-BC President Al Benning (Ames Metal Fabricators) at the MCABC Leadership Conference, held at the Vancouver Island Convention Centre in Nanaimo. The three-day event brought together industry professionals for networking, insights, and shared learning.
Conference Highlights:
- Day 1: Registration, a new member meet & greet, and welcome reception
- Day 2: Keynote by Jeff Butler, panels on BIM adoption, BC’s energy future, permit delays, and a political discussion with Keith Baldrey
- Day 3: Innovation-focused panels on AI in business, BIM, and product design, with a keynote by Mandy Gill
Community Impact & Recognition
The SMACNA-BC Board recently approved two $500 charitable donations:
- Father’s Day Walk (Prostate Cancer Foundation of BC)
- Pacific Open Heart Association (POHA)
Congratulations to Jacob Charbonneau and Lisa Clutchey, recipients of the SMACNA British Columbia Endowed Scholarship, administered by the SMACNA College of Fellows. Each receives $2,000 USD, and SMACNA-BC has matched with $2,000 CAD per recipient, beginning in 2024.
Leadership Updates
Following our AGM & Convention at the Westin Resort & Spa in Whistler on May 10, 2025, we welcome and congratulate the following members:
Board of Directors (four-year terms)
- Mark Kuelle – Austin Metal Fabricators LP
- Paul Charbonneau – Cascade Metal Design Ltd.
Joint Conference Board (five-year term)
- Blake Lancaster – Northern Sheet Metal Ltd.
Sheet Metal Industry Training Board (four-year term)
- Mark Kuelle – Austin Metal Fabricators LP
Honorary Life Memberships I’m also pleased to announce that the following individuals both received SMACNA-BC Honorary Life Membership:
- Rolly Charbonneau (formerly Alliance Sheet Metal Ltd.)
- Mark Green (formerly Austin Metal Fabricators LP)
Thank you to all who attended and to those who put their names forward. Your ongoing engagement is critical to the health of our association.
Welcome new SMACNA-BC Contractor members
- Tempest Balancing Ltd. • www.tempestbalancing.ca
- Ventus Sheet Metal Ltd. • fourlakes.ca
Welcome new SMACNA-BC Associate members
- Highrise HVAC • www.highrisehvac.com
- UBS Industries • www.ubsindustries.com
Upcoming Events
Growing and Developing Foremen by Kevin Dougherty
A “must” program for any foreman in today’s tough market, this eight-hour training is designed specifically for the construction foreman and supervisor. Learn how to take control of the job from the start, establish effective productivity habits and communication, understand the difference between leadership and management, learn how to coach and mentor for improved team performance, and learn how to properly delegate.
November 19, 7:30 am–4:00 pm | Courtyard Marriott Prince George
November 20, 7:00–3:30 pm | Civic Hotel, Surrey, BC
2025 SMACNA Inc. Annual Convention
Get ready to join the 2025 SMACNA Annual Convention in Maui, Hawaii, on October 26 – 29, 2025, for the largest gathering of members, chapter leadership, and industry partners.
This one-of-a-kind event will give you access to professional and industry-specific educational sessions to learn about emerging trends while allowing you to experience the unique culture and landscape of the beautiful Hawaii island.
If you have any questions about this event or would like more information, please contact me in the SMACNA-BC office. ■