Partnership provides new opportunities for military veterans, sheet metal union workers. 

CENTRIA is proud to announce a recent donation of metal building products to the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers’ SMART Heroes Training Program—­a seven-week instructional program for members of the U.S. military that are transitioning from active duty to civilian life. Donated products include Versawall and Versapanel industrial/commercial insulated metal panels and SRS 3 standing seam metal roof panels, along with corresponding flashing materials, accessories, clips and fasteners.

The program affords graduates the chance to enter the sheet metal workers union Apprentice Training program as a second-year apprentice, where they have the opportunity to choose where they live, train and work. Donated materials are being used in various personnel exercises over the course of the training program. The program is jointly supported by the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) and the International Training Institute (ITI). The first SMART Heroes class is set to graduate in October, 2017.

CENTRIA proudly supports veterans and has long shared the union’s commitment to providing the highest quality materials and services. Sheet metal union contractors comprise approximately 25 percent of CENTRIA’s Dealer Network and help to uphold the company’s highest quality standards.

“CENTRIA is pleased to back a cause that recognizes our brave veterans and valued union workers,” said Rob Rutherford, CENTRIA’s Director of Customer Service. “We are very grateful for the selfless sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform. This is a unique opportunity to share a small token of our gratitude, while supporting one of the trades that is critical to our success.”