It all started with a phone call from my dad. I was working in real estate when the housing interest rates reached an all-time high of almost 19%, and I was refurbishing rental properties on the side to make ends meet. When my dad called and offered me an opportunity to come work as a controller for General Sheet Metal, I immediately jumped.
And what a jump that was. Forty-two years later, I have helped grow General Sheet Metal as its CEO and owner—building a positive corporate culture and keeping both employees and clients satisfied.
Additionally, as the newly appointed president of Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), I plan to extend that impact, inspiring members to replicate these positive practices across our industry as well as contribute to fostering an inclusive, diverse and empowering environment among SMACNA members. SMACNA is an international trade and standards-setting organization dedicated to promoting quality in the sheet metal and air conditioning industry.
As a proud member of the sheet metal industry, I have seen the trade evolve, specifically for women. Though the industry has been historically male-dominated, I’m witnessing the rise of female leaders making their mark and inspiring future generations.
With an evolving focus on diversifying our industry, women have the opportunity, more than ever before, to break barriers, reshape traditional norms, and bring unique perspectives, innovative ideas and invaluable skills to the sheet metal industry. Whether it’s in project management, fabrication, installation, or leadership roles, the industry is creating pathways for women to leverage their expertise and excel in the workforce.
To cultivate a more inclusive environment within the industry for women, I and a colleague of mine established a women’s leadership group that serves as a valuable platform for local women in leadership positions, to find support, guidance, and a sense of belonging. With a network of over ten women, we are dedicated to bridging gaps and encouraging mentorship and advocacy for both current professionals and future generations of women seeking to make their mark in this industry.
As a woman stepping into the sheet metal industry, securing a seat at the table in a traditionally male-dominated field demands proactive involvement and unwavering dedication. Across the board, it’s crucial to celebrate the unique perspectives that diversity brings. By amplifying and recognizing personal strengths, women are not just earning a seat at the table but reshaping expectations within the sheet metal industry.
As a woman stepping into the sheet metal industry, securing a seat at the table in a traditionally male-dominated field demands proactive involvement and unwavering dedication.
Reflecting on my own journey and how I got to where I am today, I recall a pivotal piece of advice from a former SMACNA chapter executive. At a time when I was a young mother raising my children while also running General Sheet Metal with my husband, I hesitated to become fully involved in SMACNA.
But the individual’s words resonated deeply: “You can always find time to do the things you really want to do.” This ethos has been my guiding principle, enabling me to navigate through times when it seemed my time was thinly stretched. It’s the advice I give to those entering the workforce—if it’s your passion, you’ll find a way.
Furthermore, the advice I share with those entering the workforce, especially women, is rooted in the belief that following your passions knows no bounds. In the sheet metal industry, the opportunities are vast and varied. As one of the many mentors at SMACNA within a group of intelligent, dedicated women, we are eager to support each other and guide other women within the industry.
My journey stands as a testament to resilience, dedication and the belief that one can navigate and thrive in the sheet metal industry with the right mindset. In addition, it serves as an inspiration for women seeking to leave their mark in an ever-evolving industry, showcasing the immense opportunities for women within the industry.
As I continue contributing to shaping industry standards through SMACNA, my commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse and empowering environment remains unwavering. Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to focus my efforts on the BE4ALL initiative, a joint effort of SMACNA, SMART, and the International Training Institute (iTi). BE4ALL seeks to positively impact the industry’s work culture so that contractors can attract and retain the best and most skilled workforce possible regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity or nationality.
My primary focus surrounding the initiative is to engage in discussions among contractors, delving into the nuances of the business case for BE4ALL and addressing common misconceptions. This initiative will enable SMACNA to meet the industry’s need for a highly skilled workforce.
Expanding our industry’s horizons to embrace diversity is a collective effort—one that requires breaking barriers and nurturing an inclusive environment. My mission as the president of SMACNA is to ensure that women stepping into the industry find the support, guidance and opportunities they deserve.
We must pave the way for the next generation to actively participate in these discussions and my hope for the BE4ALL initiative is to do exactly that—inspire the next wave of voices to foster a diverse and inclusive environment within the industry.
As I continue on this journey, I remain committed to advocating for and empowering women in the sheet metal industry.
Carol Duncan is CEO of General Sheet Metal and President of SMACNA.
