RECAP: YES+ Metal & Meals: A Look Inside Local 265’s New Training Center

On April 22, the SMACNA Greater Chicago’s YES+ group got an up-close look at the future of industry training during a tour of the new SMART Local 265 Training Center in Downers Grove.

Hosted by Training Director Joe Carone and the Local 265 team, the event featured live, hands-on demonstrations from apprentices in the sheet metal shop and HVACR labs, a classroom session covering EPA Section 608 requirements and a firsthand look at PPI laser table technology in action.

Carone said the expanded facility reflects the strong partnership between Local 265 and SMACNA Greater Chicago — and creates new opportunities to elevate training across the industry.

“For the HVACR service apprenticeship, the larger footprint gives us greater opportunities to train on a wider range of residential and commercial equipment,” he said. “For sheet metal, the focus is on enhanced shop equipment and hands on fabrication training. Our welding expansion will further strengthen this, bringing in three new laser welding machines that open the door to advanced training and higher precision work.”

The event wrapped up with great food, drinks and conversation, giving attendees a chance to connect while seeing how the next generation of skilled professionals is being trained. Thanks to the Local 265 instructors, union officials and everyone who joined us!