RECAP: Chicago HMSE Camps Inspire The Future
SMACNA Greater Chicago is proud to support the growth of the Heavy Metal Summer Experience (HMSE) — a national program that introduces high school students to opportunities in the skilled trades through real-world, hands-on learning. This summer, two of our member contractors, Sheet Metal Werks and DeKalb Mechanical, opened their shop doors to local teens, giving them an inside look at the many career paths our industry offers.
DEKALB MECHANICAL: LARGEST HMSE CAMP IN THE NATION
With 31 students enrolled, DeKalb Mechanical hosted the largest camp in the country this year. Company President Kurt Mattson credited strong preparation, a committed team of volunteers and incredible local support for the camp’s success.
Over the two-week session, students rotated through a variety of projects — welding oversized dice, bending conduit, pipe brazing and more. They also had the chance to operate scissor lifts and watch a crane pick in action, experiences that brought the trades to life in a memorable way.
“The Heavy Metal camp is an excellent way to introduce teens to their potential future,” Mattson said. “It takes the right contractor with the right mindset, and with good students it can be extremely valuable. I would urge other SMACNA contractors to get involved, even if it’s just by donating material to the program. It’s a game changer for these teens.
SHEET METAL WERKS: BUILDING ON EXPERIENCE
For the second year in a row, Sheet Metal Werks hosted a two-week HMSE camp, using lessons from last year to refine the program. With support from industry vendors and partners — including SMART Local 73, Porter Pipe & Supply, Premier Mechanical, Madon Sheet Metal, Atomatic Mechanical, Sun Mechanical and International Test & Balance — students explored welding, pipefitting and even toured facilities and active jobsites.
“Programs like HMSE are invaluable for exposing the next generation to the trades and showing them just how many opportunities are out there,” said Calvin Natick, Field Marketing Associate at Porter Pipe & Supply. “We’re proud to be involved and look forward to continuing to support the initiative.”
At graduation, Sheet Metal Werks leaders shared powerful messages with students. President John Crne reminded students that success in any career comes down to three things: be on time, have a good attitude and maintain a strong work ethic.
For CFO Sue Ryan, the program’s impact was deeply personal. “If you take one kid and change their life, there’s not much that’s more rewarding than that,” she said. “I truly am blessed to be a part of this and see the actual transformation in an 18-year-old’s career trajectory and know that we were a part of that. That’s what it’s all about.”
Thanks to the commitment of our members, industry partners and volunteers, our industry is earning the recognition it deserves, while helping students gain new skills and a clearer vision for their future.
