I just returned from two trade shows — Metalcon in Denver and SMACNA’s annual conference in San Antonio.

Apart from being a little jet-lagged, I enjoyed both trips. The Mile High City is a new venue for sheet metal forming focused Metalcon and it seemed to agree with organizers and attendees. The Denver Convention Center seemed full, and Denver is a beautiful city with much to do in the post-show hours. As for me, a good friend lives there, so I was able to catch up with him and enjoy some of the many locally made craft beers that make the city a hops lover’s dream.

The Sheet Metal and Air-Conditioning Contractors’ National Association went to the JW Marriott Hill Country in the sprawling city of San Antonio. Although it seemed about as far from the famous Alamo, Riverwalk and other attractions of the city’s downtown as possible, the ductwork fabrication and HVAC sales contractors who make up SMACNA’s membership seemed to enjoy it.

Business seems to be growing among the association’s members, which makes everyone happy.

 We will have full coverage in a future SNIPS issue, but in the meanwhile, be sure to check out pictures from both shows on our Facebook page.