Members urged to embrace AI technologies.

Already, 2025 is shaping up to be a year that promises to challenge the construction industry and push us to new heights. One topic that seems to be everywhere is the rise of artificial intelligence (see page 24 for a full article). Many of the software solutions and tech platforms we use in our day-to-day have AI capabilities, all designed to make our businesses safer and more efficient. From project management and estimating, to automation and collaboration, there are so many different uses for AI. This is the way of the future, and I encourage all members to find ways to integrate this game-changing technology now so you don’t risk getting left behind! 

On the subject of growth and change, SMACNA Greater Chicago is always looking for new opportunities and fresh content to bring to our existing lineup of educational offerings. If there’s a specific topic or engaging speaker you’d like to hear from, let our staff or Board know! Keeping our members on the leading edge and continuing the elevate the industry is a top priority.

A general consensus within our market is that contractors continue to remain busy. Politics aside, our new administration is likely to spur plenty of new work in American infrastructure and construction, including a number of energy projects and mega-projects. The Midwest is a prime location for data centers to be built, and with the recent $500 billion investment announcement, we’re excited to see what the next few years hold.

Finally, please join us in congratulating Lou Ochoa of Ochoa Mechanical Group as the newest addition to the SMACNA Greater Chicago Board of Directors! Lou brings a wealth of experience and valued perspective to the group, and we’re thrilled to have his participation.

Jeff Lukitsh

President, SMACNA Greater Chicago