John Comforte Inducted to SMACNA's College of Fellows

SMACNA’s College of Fellows recently announced that John W. Comforte, president of Climatemp Inc., in Broadview, Ill., will be inducted into the prestigious College in October. He will receive his signature College medallion at SMACNA’s 74th Annual Convention, in Maui, Hawaii.

An active SMACNA chapter leader for more than 15 years, Comforte has a proven track record of service to the local industry and fellow contractors. As a current Board member of the SMACNA Greater Chicago chapter, he continues to work diligently to protect the future and prosperity of the chapter and its members. Previously, he served on the Board of Directors and in the officer chairs for SMACNA Chicago.

Currently, Comforte is dedicated to developing a succession plan for the future leaders of the chapter. He is highly skilled in leadership transition strategies and training thanks to his industry experience. Over the years, he has served as a mentor for many, taking great pride in helping his fellow contractors, whether business or personal. He is known as the “go-to” resource for difficult issues and problems.

Comforte played an important role in the consolidation of SMACNA Chicago and SMACNA of Northeastern Illinois to form the SMACNA Greater Chicago chapter in 2014. In 2013, he represented SMACNA Chicago on SMACNA National’s Council of Chapter Representatives, and in 2014, he served on behalf of the new Greater Chicago chapter.

Faced with some of the toughest economic conditions in recent history, Comforte negotiated labor agreements that kept contractors and their skilled workforce competitive in an extremely difficult and demanding marketplace. He served in a leadership role on the chapter’s Joint Arbitration Board and Negotiating Committee from 2002 until 2014.

SMACNA Greater Chicago sponsors two Marty & Vic Comforte Endowed Scholarships that are administered by the SMACNA College of Fellows. These scholarships were established as an educational aid for students affiliated with SMACNA Greater Chicago and in recognition of the dedication and services rendered by the Comforte family to the sheet metal industry. The scholarship is funded through the generous support of SMACNA Greater Chicago.

Membership in SMACNA’s College of Fellows is reserved for top industry professionals who have made significant contributions to advance the sheet metal industry, capping years of committed service and dedication.