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The Art of Business Etiquette

Business Etiquette. It's about as much as politics as politeness and punctuality.  In this interactive webinar with communications coaches, Keith Scott and Rebecca Klein of TALLsmall Productions, learn top do's and don'ts for etiquette excellence.  

  Keith and Rebecca will hit on hacks for success when it comes to: 

• Communication: Top words and phrases to use and avoid. 

• The Politics of Behavior: When someone encourages you to have that extra drink or turns the conversation to a controversial topic, what are the dance steps you should take to be polite and also professional.  

• Networking and protecting your personal space.  

• Dressing for Success at the office and networking events/conferences. 

• Cell Phones: When to check and when to wait.  

• Confidentiality: What to do when someone brings gossip to you.  

The session will feature discussion, an extended Q&A and a number of communications challenges designed to put your skills to the test. Keith and Rebecca have led workshops at two national SMACNA conferences and speak around the country at chapter events. 

The Art of Business Etiquette

Business Etiquette. It's about as much as politics as politeness and punctuality.  In this interactive webinar with communications coaches, Keith Scott and Rebecca Klein of TALLsmall Productions, learn top do's and don'ts for etiquette excellence.  

  Keith and Rebecca will hit on hacks for success when it comes to: 

• Communication: Top words and phrases to use and avoid. 

• The Politics of Behavior: When someone encourages you to have that extra drink or turns the conversation to a controversial topic, what are the dance steps you should take to be polite and also professional.  

• Networking and protecting your personal space.  

• Dressing for Success at the office and networking events/conferences. 

• Cell Phones: When to check and when to wait.  

• Confidentiality: What to do when someone brings gossip to you.  

The session will feature discussion, an extended Q&A and a number of communications challenges designed to put your skills to the test. Keith and Rebecca have led workshops at two national SMACNA conferences and speak around the country at chapter events. 

Understanding Grievance Arbitration Provisions of the SFUA and the Grievance Process

In this webinar, you'll gain a thorough understanding of grievance arbitration provisions of the Standard Form of Union Agreement and explore the grievance process in detail, from its initial definition to the final resolution, including the common causes of grievances and the typical steps taken to address them. You'll also gain insights into the roles and responsibilities of arbitrators in the grievance process, learning how each party contributes to reaching a resolution. By examining examples you'll better understand how grievances are resolved in the sheet metal industry. Lastly, we'll share best practices for effective grievance handling, communication strategies, and tips for resolving conflicts promptly and fairly.
 
 

Understanding Grievance Arbitration Provisions of the SFUA and the Grievance Process

In this webinar, you'll gain a thorough understanding of grievance arbitration provisions of the Standard Form of Union Agreement and explore the grievance process in detail, from its initial definition to the final resolution, including the common causes of grievances and the typical steps taken to address them. You'll also gain insights into the roles and responsibilities of arbitrators in the grievance process, learning how each party contributes to reaching a resolution. By examining examples you'll better understand how grievances are resolved in the sheet metal industry. Lastly, we'll share best practices for effective grievance handling, communication strategies, and tips for resolving conflicts promptly and fairly.

Understanding Unfair Labor Practices

This webinar, led by Tom Trachsel of Felhaber Larson, is tailored for chapter executives aiming to deepen their comprehension of unfair labor practices (ULPs) and equip them with strategies for prevention and resolution. 

The webinar aims to enhance understanding of labor laws, improve labor relations, and mitigate legal risks, empowering Chapter Executives to promote fairness, and compliance within their organizations. 
 

 

Understanding Unfair Labor Practices

This webinar, led by Tom Trachsel of Felhaber Larson, is tailored for chapter executives aiming to deepen their comprehension of unfair labor practices (ULPs) and equip them with strategies for prevention and resolution.

The webinar aims to enhance understanding of labor laws, improve labor relations, and mitigate legal risks, empowering Chapter Executives to promote fairness, and compliance within their organizations. 

Workshop on Best Practices for Association Policies and Procedures

Join us for a workshop tailored to chapter executives, designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary for effective association management. Chapter executives have a lot to manage while running an effective association and staying within budget. Clear policies and procedures are vital for smooth operations, upholding values, and risk mitigation. 

Facilitated by Dan Kelly of Felhaber Larson, this workshop offers valuable insights and tools for chapter governance and management excellence. Whether seasoned or new to a chapter executive role, join us to enhance your Chapter's operations and mission achievement. 

Workshop on Best Practices for Association Policies and Procedures

Join us for a workshop tailored to chapter executives, designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary for effective association management. Chapter executives have a lot to manage while running an effective association and staying within budget. Clear policies and procedures are vital for smooth operations, upholding values, and risk mitigation. 

Facilitated by Dan Kelly of Felhaber Larson, this workshop offers valuable insights and tools for chapter governance and management excellence. Whether seasoned or new to a chapter executive role, join us to enhance your Chapter's operations and mission achievement.

Embracing Shared Goals and Prioritizing Mutual Interests

I had the first-hand opportunity to witness the SMACNA/SMART labor management partnership at work. I was honored to join General President Mike Coleman on the stage at the 2024 Partners in Progress conference, where we highlighted our strong relationship with labor and how we value collaboration, not confrontation. 

SMACNA and Its Members Can Accomplish Great Things By Working Together

SMACNA always has a busy first quarter. We hold many committee meetings, labor relations meetings and educational programs. 

The Partners in Progress Leadership Forum

Industry leaders share meaningful insights into current industry challenges and priorities.

The Future is NOW

Partners in Progress Conference brings SMACNA and SMART members together to improve businesses and drive future growth.

Risk Forward to Become a Better Leader

Keynote speaker teaches performance arts tools contractors can use to improve communication. 

How to Attract & Retain Generation Z Workers

Learn what the newest members of the workforce value most in their career choices

The Hero Effect

Keynote speaker encourages Partners in Progress attendees to become everyday heroes to their customers. 

SMACNA Speaker Profile: John Murdough

SMACNA educator receives CFMA’s Construction Executive of the Year award. John Murdough received the 2024 Wink Ames Memorial Award for Pioneer in Construction from the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA).

Government Affairs Update and Honors for Stan Kolbe

The 118th Congress is now over half over and just seven months of activity remains before the election.

Finding Happiness at Work

Culture of Respect — formerly BE4ALL (Belonging and Excellence for All) — launched in December 2021.

Infrastructure Bill Update: Seizing Opportunities in 2024

It has been more than two years since Congress passed the bipartisan infrastructure deal (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act). As predicted, the $1.2 trillion dollar investment into U.S. infrastructure has been slow to reach actual job sites and construction companies’ wallets.

Contractors Beware: Bonuses and Incentive Payments May Create Overtime Headaches

While SMACNA contractors are familiar with the concept of “overtime” — that is, paying employees time and one-half for certain hours worked — few contractors understand how overtime paid pursuant to their collective bargaining agreement (or “CBA”) intersects with statutory overtime required by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (or “FLSA”).

Welcome New SMACNA Members

New SMACNA Members 

SMACNA Urges Congress to Pass FAA Reauthorization

SMACNA contractors are working on almost every significant airport expansion, upgrade or new construction project across the nation, activity that would be funded and enhanced by H.R. 3935.

SMACNA CEO Publishes Editorial on Need for Younger Workers in Trades

Piece penned by Aaron Hilger, run in newspapers in Florida, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia talks about the benefits of a career in the trades for high school graduates.

Webinar: Project Labor Agreements on Federal & Federally Assisted Construction Projects

Learn more about the unprecedented support that the Biden administration has provided to unions and signatory contractors by mandating PLAs on large-scale federal construction projects for the first time. You can learn about the importance of this tool, and the fivefold tax credits available for covered projects under the Inflation Reduction Act, in expanding work opportunities for your firm. 

Holman is SMACNA’s Newest Silver Associate Member

This global leader in the automotive space has dealerships all across the country and specializes in vehicle acquisition and fleet management for small to medium sized businesses in the trades.

Register for Culinary Connections Learning Journey

Led by Food Network star Aarti Sequeira, the Learning Journey will focus on the intersection of food, culture and connection. 

Apply for SMACNA Board and Committee Roles

Application deadline approaching quickly for members to take on a leadership role within the association.

Contractors Pair with Local High School on Building Future Labor Force

Collaboration centers on the development of the HVAC component of training space so that students can be better prepared for a career in the trades through participation in one two Certified Pre-Apprenticeship programs in Wisconsin.

A Lasting Legacy

Planning for a time when you’re no longer running your business can be overwhelming. Gain some peace of mind and learn about potential options to help you avoid frustration, taxation, and litigation when the time comes to exit your business.

May 2024 Update: State Legislative Activity

SMACNA staff has been busy supporting economic development efforts for state and local communities around the country.  

Avoiding Monkey Mayhem

We all have monkeys (aka responsibilities) in our barrels. The challenges occur when some people pass their monkeys off to others, which can have a ripple effect, or when others take on more monkeys than can fit into their barrels. As leaders, we are challenged with guiding our teams to keep their barrels in balance. This course is based on principles in the book, *Shifting the Monkey: The Art of Protecting Good People from Liars, Criers, and other Slackers* by Tod Whitaker.

Regulation of the Month: Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

Watch this video to learn more about your company’s obligations under this recently passed rule.

Nominate the 2024 SMACNA Contractor of the Year

Weigh in on which SMACNA member should be selected for one of the most coveted awards available to contractors.

Tom Martin Interviewed in Consulting-Specifying Engineer Magazine

President of T.H. Martin and SMACNA President-Elect discussed how the design-assist model is becoming more prevalent.

SMACPAC Ambassadors Cohosted Political Event for Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez

Small business champion has led the charge on issues such as tax incentives for public and private business HVAC retrofits, change order reform, infrastructure and small business grants for loans and business expansion.

Watch Our Recent Webinar

Building a Dynamic Contracting Business Through Constant Change is now available to watch at your convenience.

When Did You Last Visit the Premier Partner Zone?

This section of the SMACNA website is devoted exclusively to news, product updates, and special offers from our six Premier Partner companies.

Stan Kolbe Meets with Rep. Kevin Mullin

California congressman is a leader on several of SMACNA's legislative priorities.

Tools to Conducting an Effective Internal Investigation

When an employer receives a complaint of wrongful conduct in the workplace or is put on notice of other issues, oftentimes this triggers a duty to conduct a prompt internal investigation. While this can sometimes seem like a daunting task, it doesn't have to be. This course will explore when the duty to investigate is triggered, steps to a workplace investigation along with other important considerations and common pitfalls to avoid. Participants will come to understand how to conduct an effective internal investigation from identifying the focus of the investigation, identifying witnesses, conducting witness interviews, document review, reaching a determination and documenting the investigation findings.