Local leaders work to strengthen SMART through organizing in Bottom-Up Organizing class

Organizing is the foundation of the labor movement, and it remains the key to SMART’s health and strength to this day. Bringing unorganized workers into our union is how we grow union density, maintain the health of our funds and build our strength at the bargaining table. For that reason, the SMART Education Department held its Bottom-Up Organizing class in St. Louis, Mo., during the week of April 13, 2026.

Workers at SPX Cooling Technologies organize for change

On February 23, 2026, workers at SPX Cooling Technologies, LLC in Springfield, Missouri, voted to ratify their first contract as SMART members. The three-year agreement includes a $1,500 ratification bonus, wage increases of over 11%, the preservation of health and retiree benefits and just cause protection against unfair discipline. The victory came from workers who were organized to stand together and utilize labor’s oldest and most powerful weapon: the strike!

SMART makes the difference in a traditional trade: Midtown Chimney Sweeps joins Local 9 to expand opportunity

In Colorado, the recent, pioneering partnership between Midtown Chimney Sweeps and SMART Local 9 demonstrates how collaboration, professionalism and high-quality union training can open new doors for local unions, employers, Coloradans and entire industries. Maintenance of metal chimney flues and end caps in Colorado will now be performed by Local 9 members!

SMART Local 16 holds first orientation for newly organized sheet metal workers

Organizing is not just about recruiting new sheet metal workers into our union; retaining members is a critical part of the equation. SMART local unions need to grow in order to bolster collective bargaining and ensure health and pension funds remain strong. That can only happen when members both join and stay in SMART. For that reason, SMART Local 16 held its inaugural new organized member orientation on March 7, 2026.