Fischbach retires; Garner named director of business and management relations

On April 13, 2026, SMART General President Michael Coleman announced the appointment of Josh Garner as SMART’s new director of business and management relations, following the retirement of outgoing director Tom Fischbach. Garner began his new position on May 1, 2026.

Fischbach’s retirement followed nearly five decades of service and solidarity. His journey began on October 16, 1979, when he entered the apprenticeship program at Local 22 in New Jersey. Over the years, he steadily rose through the ranks — serving as foreman, project manager/estimator, trustee, Executive Board member, vice president and president. He later was elected business agent/financial secretary-treasurer, then business manager/president, before ultimately advancing to the International as director of business and manage­ment relations, a position he held with distinction for six years.

In addition to his leadership roles within SMART, Fischbach has been a committed advocate for the broader labor movement. He served as president of the Mechanical Allied Crafts Council, president of the Metropolitan Association and as financial secretary-treasurer for the Union County Building Trades in New Jersey, strengthening partner­ships and advancing opportunities for working men and women across the region.

Fischbach’s commitment to service extends beyond his professional life. For 20 years, he served his commu­nity as a volunteer firefighter in his hometown — an often-overlooked role that requires the same rigorous training, discipline and readiness as full-time firefighting. Rising through the ranks from trainee to lieutenant and ultimately captain, he exem­plified courage and dedication in service to others.

“We thank Tom for his service to this union and wish him the best in this next chapter,” said General President Coleman when announcing the transition.

New Director of Business and Management Relations Josh Garner has been a member of Local 18 (Wisconsin) since 1998. In 2020, he was appointed an International organizer and was subsequently promoted to regional organizing director for Region II in 2025. Prior to his position at the International, Garner served as a Local 18 statewide organizer for 10 years, where he led strategic campaigns, political outreach and membership education efforts. He also served as the local’s financial secretary-treasurer and as a business representative.

“Josh has demonstrated strong lead­ership skills as regional director. He will be a great fit for this very impor­tant position,” said General President Coleman in his announcement.

Congratulations, brothers!