The MCAA Innovative Technology Committee recognized Doug Smith from Dynamic Systems, Inc. as the 2023 Innovator of the Year at the annual MEP Innovation Conference hosted by MCAA, NECA and SMACNA in January in Austin, Texas. Smith is the director of VDC technology at Dynamic Systems, Inc., a Texas-based contractor, and leads the design and coordination process between a team of over 120 people.

This is the second MEP Innovation Conference, held jointly between Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA), Mechanical Contractors Association (MCA) and National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). Last year, Dee Cramer of Holly, Michigan, was the innovator of the year for SMACNA. 

Smith is recognized by his peers for his leadership in research, process integration from virtual design to fabrication, and his ability to be a resource to colleagues in the industry. Smith has previously presented at the MEP Innovation Conference, MCAA Fabrication Conference and the MCAA Technology Conference.  

“Doug is one of the best people in the industry to know,” said Travis Voss, the Helm Group’s leader of innovative technologies. “When you are at a roadblock on something, more than likely he has faced the same challenge and will tell you how he fixed it. That kind of candor is part of the amazing culture he brings to the industry, and we all try to emulate.”  

About the award: The MEP Innovator of the Year award is given each year at the MEP Innovation Conference to recognize the people driving research and innovation in the industry. A representative from MCAA, NECA and SMACNA is recognized each year.