Labor negotiations can affect workforce costs and operating conditions for specialty contractors, making preparation an important part of contract planning. The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA) is scheduling a two-day training program in Arizona focused on collective bargaining practices.
The Collective Bargaining Orientation is set for Feb. 10-11, 2027, at The Westin Tempe in Tempe.
The program will cover fundamental collective bargaining concepts and negotiation techniques. Participants will also receive guidance on preparing for bargaining sessions, including setting objectives, gathering information and developing negotiation strategies.
Financial topics will include labor cost considerations, benchmarking and analytics that can be used when evaluating bargaining positions. The program also will address preparation for impasses and potential work stoppages.
The in-person orientation will be held at The Westin Tempe, 11 E. Seventh Street. Registration is priced at $175 and is available to SMACNA members.
The program is structured for both experienced negotiators and contractors preparing for future bargaining sessions. Participants will receive information covering negotiation preparation, financial analysis and dispute-related scenarios.
Collective bargaining can influence labor costs, workforce planning and operating conditions for contractors working under negotiated agreements. Training that combines negotiation preparation with cost and employment data can support contractor representatives as they prepare for contract discussions.
The February program gives SMACNA members a dedicated setting to examine bargaining practices and the financial and operational considerations associated with labor negotiations.
Source: SMACNA.
