ApprenticesConference

Western States Apprenticeship Contest Showcases Industry Excellence

The Western Conference on Sheet Metal Apprenticeship & Training Apprenticeship Contest was held May 28–29 at the Livermore Training Facility, in Livermore CA, bringing together apprentices from across Arizona, California and Nevada to demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and commitment to excellence.

This year’s competition expanded to include Service and Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB) apprentices alongside traditional Sheet Metal competitors, highlighting the diverse disciplines that contribute to the success of the industry.

Sheet Metal apprentices competed in four specialized categories: Architectural, Industrial, HVAC, and Project Management. Participants were challenged to apply technical expertise, craftsmanship, and problem-solving skills in a competitive environment designed to reflect real-world industry demands.

TAB apprentices participated in a comprehensive five-station hands-on competition that tested their proficiency in TAB measurements, along with a fire and smoke damper inspection testing and duct pressure testing exams. These practical exercises evaluated the precision and technical knowledge required to ensure system performance, efficiency, and safety.

Service apprentices demonstrated their skills through projects focused on soldering, brazing, and electrical wiring. These competitions assessed craftsmanship, and adherence to industry standards.

In addition to the hands-on competitions, all apprentices completed written examinations to evaluate their understanding of industry principles, codes, safety practices, and technical knowledge.

The Western States Apprenticeship Contest continues to serve as a valuable opportunity for apprentices to showcase their talents, gain experience in a competitive setting, and demonstrate the high level of training provided through Union Apprenticeship Programs. The event reflects the dedication of apprentices, instructors, and industry partners who are committed to developing the next generation of skilled professionals.

Competition Results

Sheet Metal Division

1st Place: Trevor Baker – Local 104 North Bay Counties JATC

2nd Place: Richard Morrison – Local 105 Southern California Sheet Metal JATC

3rd Place: Austin Cummings – Local 105 Southern California Sheet Metal JATC

TAB Division

1st Place: Jeremiah Foster – Local 104 East Bay Counties JATC

2nd Place: Joseph Prohoroff – Local 105 Southern California Sheet Metal JATC

3rd Place: Tarah Grams – Local 104 North Bay Counties JATC

Service Division

1st Place: Christian Quintana – Local 104 Santa Clara County JATC

2nd Place: Ethan Peterson – Local 104 North Bay Counties JATC

3rd Place: Alexander Martinez – Local 104 Monterey, Santa Cruz & San Benito Counties JATC

Congratulations to all competitors for their outstanding performance and dedication to their craft. Their accomplishments reflect the high level of training in the union apprenticeship training programs.

The Western Conference on Sheet Metal Apprenticeship & Training would like to thank the following supporters of the contest that generously donated tools and materials for the Apprentice Contest:

  • Milwaukee Tool
  • ACCO Engineered Systems
  • Southland Industries
  • Ductmate Industries
  • Linde Gas
  • MacArthur Co
  • Bay Area SMACNA