This month, we’re excited to spotlight Shaun Swift, a dedicated Sheet Metal Foreman who has been with Hermanson since 2013.

Born and raised in the Edmonds/Lynnwood area, Shaun has deep roots in the Pacific Northwest. His father and grandfather were both sheet metal workers, and he and his brother-in-law continue that legacy today. Family is central to Shaun’s life. He lives just a few houses away from his parents and is close to his sister, niece, and nephew.

Outside of work, Shaun enjoys the best of the Pacific Northwest: boating, hiking, snowboarding, and traveling. He and his father also restore classic Chevrolets, including a 1962 Impala SS and a 1961 Corvette.

Shaun began his career in 2005 as a material handler at a local Sheet Metal shop, working alongside his father. However, he quickly learned that he enjoyed moving more in the job than sitting at a bench. Later, he joined Hermanson in 2013, where he has built a lasting career ever since.

At Hermanson, Shaun has thrived as a customer-facing foreman, helping to grow different business groups and strengthen relationships with major clients in the tech sector. 

“I really enjoy the competition and going toe-to-toe with other mechanical contractors to win the trust of these companies. We don’t always have to focus on making the highest percentage, but on getting the next job, and the next after that.”

When it comes to projects, Shaun takes pride in the design-build exposed duct systems he has worked on.
 
“I did the first clean room for a spaceflight company in Auburn in 2018 and they came back and had us do their larger Bellevue space in 2023. Both are large floor-to-ceiling exposed duct systems that look very cool in my opinion.”
 
He also recalls Climate Pledge Arena as a standout project. 
 
“Everyone was out there, and every aspect of mechanical work was incorporated. I worked weekdays doing exposed ductwork on the suite level and weekends in the large mechanical rooms. It was a full team effort and a really memorable project.”

When asked about Hermanson, Shaun highlights the company’s collaborative culture.
 
“The culture is modern and considerate. We’re not just tools—most people here understand that if we all succeed as individuals, the company will experience more success. I feel like my coworkers and superiors are considering my best interest even behind my back, and I’m constantly looking for ways to better the careers of those under me as well.”
 
He especially appreciates Hermanson’s “upside-down pyramid” approach to leadership. 
 
“When there’s a problem on-site, we ask the apprentice for ideas first. They’re more comfortable talking before a senior has stated their opinion, and it benefits the whole job if everyone feels valued.”
 
His advice to others in the trade reflects that same curiosity and forward-thinking outlook: “Stay current and curious about our industry. Read about the large box you’re installing, try to understand what it does and why. HVAC is a major contributor to pollution and climate change—there’s always new things coming out and it’s important that we understand their intent and can install them correctly. Often an apprentice will explain something to me that I haven’t heard about yet, and I love it when that happens.”

Join us in celebrating Shaun's exceptional work and leadership as part of the Hermanson team!