industry news & smtc updates

Industry News, Training Center Updates, and member spotlights. Explore what it’s like to join, and what we stand for at the Nor Cal SMW Training Center.

Featured
Northern California JATC Sets Industry Milestone with ASHRAE Student Branch Launch
Northern California JATC Sets Industry Milestone with ASHRAE Student Branch Launch

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.

Read more →
Pick A Topic
Christopher Ruch Christopher Ruch

TABB Certification Renewal: Important New Training Requirements for Technicians and Supervisors

TABB TAB Technician and Supervisor Recertification Update: This renewal cycle includes additional TABB-specific refresher training requirements. The courses focus on the updated TABB certification program and the SMACNA manuals that form the technical basis of the certification. Members should review the requirements early, complete the appropriate renewal course, and allow enough time before their certification expires. The required SMACNA publications are available through TotalTrack; contact your JATC coordinator or instructor for access.

Read More
Christopher Ruch Christopher Ruch

Celebrating the Northern California Valley and Modesto Area Sheet Metal Workers’ Class of 2026

The Northern California Valley and Modesto Area Sheet Metal Workers proudly celebrated the Class of 2026 on August 22. These new journeypersons completed years of rigorous classroom and hands-on training, strengthening the skilled workforce serving the Sacramento and Modesto regions. Prepared for careers in HVAC, welding, TAB, service, architectural sheet metal, BIM, and more, the Class of 2026 represents the next generation of highly trained sheet metal professionals.

Read More
Robert Martin Robert Martin

ASHRAE June women in construction dinner

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.

Read More