Category: Summer 2026
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.
South Carolina sheet metal worker experiences the union difference as foreperson, father
SMART membership changes lives — not just for members, but for entire families. Local 399 (South Carolina) member Fabian Campos, along with hit son, provides a powerful example.
Local 10 members strike to win better health care in Mankato, Minn.
SMART General President Michael Coleman often says that our solidarity is our greatest strength. Local 10 members in Mankato, Minnesota, proved that in April 2026, going on strike and winning much-needed gains and guarantees around health care.
Retiree shares picture with the King
The SMART Local 25 (Northern New Jersey) Retiree Club shared this picture featuring retiree Jerry Gattie with Elvis Presley! Gattie was stationed with Elvis in West Germany in 1958.
SMART members take on monumental work in the nuclear sector
For more than a decade, SMART Local 30 (Toronto) members have been integral to the Darlington Nuclear Refurbishment project, contributing to the successful delivery of the world’s largest nuclear refurbishment to date.
SMART sisters weld metal roses in memory of Amber Czech
In March, the SMART Southwest Gulf Coast Regional Council’s Women’s Committee hosted a local chapter of Women in Construction (WIC), welding metal roses in memory of Amber Czech.
Local 71 honors 70-year member Arthur (Art) Benson
Local 71 (Buffalo, New York) Business Manager Tim Benes and retired Business Manager/General Vice President John Helak had the honor of presenting Brother Art Benson with his 70-year continuous membership award.
SMART Local 9 holds first annual SMART Derby, BBQ and Car Show
SMART Local 9 members, families and friends gathered at the local’s Denver union hall on September 6, 2025, for the inaugural SMART Derby, BBQ and Car Show, a first-of-its-kind event that celebrated craftsmanship, fellowship and the future of our trade.