The Sacramento JATC recently welcomed HVAC contractors, apprentices, engineers, inspectors, and industry partners for a comprehensive training on California's latest Title 24, California Mechanical Code, and fire life safety requirements. Hosted in partnership with regional SMACNA chapters, SMART Local 104, and NEMI, the seminar equipped attendees with practical knowledge to stay ahead of evolving codes, improve building performance, and support a safer, more energy-efficient built environment.

The California Energy Commission has unanimously approved the $9.3 million CA-TREC grant, investing in the expansion of California's residential HVAC workforce through existing state-accredited apprenticeship programs. For SMART Local 104, this funding will strengthen residential heat pump training, create new opportunities for apprentices and journey workers, and help ensure California's clean energy systems are installed correctly to deliver lasting benefits for homeowners and communities.

SMART Local 104 is proud to celebrate two outstanding apprentices who were awarded scholarships to attend the ASHRAE Winter Conference— Presented by Sergio Rodriguez and Daphny Paye from ASHRAE Sacramento Chapter to our Service apprenticeship program and our Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB) apprenticeship program.

Congratulations to both apprentices on this well-deserved recognition. SMART 104 is honored to support the next generation of skilled professionals and looks forward to seeing their continued success in the industry.

This week, Southland Industries had Loren Zehl and Pendleton Berner at the Local 104 NCVSM Training Center completing their AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel certifications in preparation for upcoming projects requiring D1.1-qualified welders.

Investing in training and certification helps ensure our workforce is ready to meet project specifications while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and craftsmanship. Congratulations to Loren and Pendleton for expanding their qualifications and helping position our team for continued success on future projects.

Anthony, a second-year apprentice, is gaining valuable hands-on experience through a conductor head fabrication project. His strong work ethic, attention to detail, and growing shop fabrication skills continue to highlight his potential in the sheet metal trade.

The Northern California Valley Sheet Metal Industry JATC has made history by becoming the first union HVACR apprenticeship program to launch an official ASHRAE Student Branch, setting a new standard for the industry. This groundbreaking achievement bridges the gap between skilled trades, engineering, and academia, giving apprentices direct access to cutting-edge industry knowledge and professional networks.

Driven by strong collaboration with ASHRAE leaders and fueled by enthusiastic apprentice participation, the new student branch is already creating opportunities for leadership, innovation, and real-world application of advanced HVAC concepts. This milestone represents more than recognition, it signals a shift toward a more connected, collaborative future for the built environment.

On February 24–25, 2026, the Northern California Valley Sheet Metal Industry JATC partnered with Belimo for a hands-on life safety damper training covering damper types, code requirements, testing, and system applications. Technicians, apprentices, and industry professionals gained practical skills aimed at improving compliance, reducing maintenance costs, and enhancing system reliability.

On February 11, 2026, SMUD partnered with the Northern California Valley Sheet Metal Industry training center to connect HVAC professionals with energy efficiency rebates, indoor air quality resources, and carbon reduction strategies. The event highlighted that system performance depends on skilled installation and recognized Local 104 as a key partner in regional workforce development.