A Chicago workforce outreach event gave women exploring construction careers practical exposure to sheet metal work, highlighting opportunities in fabrication, HVAC systems and other skilled trades.
Members of the SMART Women's Committee, Belonging and Excellence for All (BE4ALL) Committee, and Representation, Integrity, Support and Empowerment (RISE) Committee partnered with Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) for a Service and Learning Day in August 2026, ahead of SMART's Leadership Conference in Chicago.
The event included a panel discussion on career options, personal experiences in the trades and support available through union committees. Participants also built their own sheet metal toolboxes, providing a hands-on introduction to tools and practical skills used in the industry.
The programme was co-facilitated by SMART Local 73 in Chicago and Local 265 in Carol Stream, Illinois.
Presenters explained the range of work available to sheet metal workers, from shop-based welding and ductwork fabrication to HVAC installation, computer-aided drafting and indoor air quality testing and adjustment.
The panel featured Amanda Filpo of Local 28 in New York City, apprentice Dee Lee of Local 85 in Atlanta, John Harris of Local 399 in South Carolina, and Latauna Bigelow of Local 100 in the Greater Washington, D.C., area.
The discussion aimed to help attendees understand how sheet metal skills apply across different types of construction projects and technical roles. The toolbox-building activity complemented the discussion by giving participants direct experience with the trade.
One attendee said the event changed their understanding of sheet metal work and left them interested in pursuing a career in the industry.
CWIT has worked since 1981 to help women enter and succeed in occupations where they have historically been underrepresented. Its programmes include pre-apprenticeship training, welding instruction and policy advocacy.
The partnership with SMART connected that workforce development mission with union training resources and a broad range of sheet metal career pathways. The participating committees also highlighted the importance of representation, workplace support and access to opportunities across the industry.
Construction employers continue to need skilled workers across mechanical systems, fabrication and other specialised trades. Outreach programmes that combine career guidance with practical demonstrations can help prospective workers understand the skills required and the options available before entering an apprenticeship or training programme.
For contractors and trade employers, expanding access to sheet metal careers can help broaden the future workforce while building awareness of technical roles that are essential to construction delivery.
Source: Smart.
