The 2025 SMACNA Fab Forum, held from April 7–9 in Boston, MA, was a landmark event for the sheet metal and HVAC fabrication industry. As an Elite Level Sponsor, Mestek Machinery was proud to be at the forefront of this gathering, which brought together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals to explore the future of fabrication.
Showcasing Advanced Fabrication Solutions
At the forum, Mestek Machinery highlighted our latest advancements in automated duct fabrication and metal forming technologies. Our booth served as a hub for attendees eager to learn about solutions designed to enhance efficiency, precision, and productivity in shop operations. We engaged with numerous professionals, discussing how our equipment and technology can integrate seamlessly into modern fabrication workflows.
Engaging with Industry Leaders and Innovators
The event featured insightful sessions on topics such as lean manufacturing, digital transformation, and workforce development. A notable highlight was the keynote address by Hugh Seaton, CEO of The Link.ai, who discussed the integration of artificial intelligence in construction and fabrication processes. His insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI resonated with many attendees, emphasizing the importance of embracing technological advancements in our industry.
Touring McCusker-Gill's State-of-the-Art Facility
One of the standout moments of the 2025 SMACNA Fab Forum was the opportunity for attendees to step inside another top-tier fabrication facility and see real-world applications of advanced processes in action. The tour of McCusker-Gill’s state-of-the-art shop gave participants a firsthand look at how others are optimizing production with modern technology and streamlined workflows. Attendees appreciated the chance to exchange ideas, compare notes on challenges and successes, and pick up practical tips they could bring back to their own operations. The experience fostered a strong sense of community and collaboration, reinforcing the value of learning directly from peers in the field.
Connecting the Shop Floor to the Future with Real-Time Insights and Smarter Production
At the 2025 SMACNA Fab Forum, Mestek Machinery proudly showcased a live demo of MestekNet™, our powerful shop connectivity suite designed to bring Industry 4.0 to HVAC sheet metal fabrication. Attendees experienced firsthand how MestekNet seamlessly links Mestek Machinery equipment—including Lockformer and Iowa Precision machines—to a centralized digital platform for real-time data tracking, machine monitoring, and performance analytics. With intuitive dashboards and cloud-based accessibility, MestekNet empowers shop managers to make informed decisions, reduce unplanned downtime, and maximize throughput. The demo highlighted how this innovative solution is reshaping fabrication workflows by delivering actionable insights that enhance efficiency and support continuous improvement across the shop floor.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 SMACNA Fab Forum underscored the dynamic evolution of the fabrication industry. Mestek Machinery remains committed to supporting this evolution by providing innovative solutions and fostering collaborations that drive progress. We extend our gratitude to SMACNA for organizing such a successful event and to all the attendees who engaged with us.
For those who couldn't attend, we invite you to watch our recap video above to experience the highlights of the forum. And don’t miss the exclusive brochure we created just for the event below! Just click on the image to view the full document.
Be sure to stay connected with Mestek Machinery for updates on our latest innovations and upcoming events.