Sheet Metal News
SMART leaders attend NABTU Legislative Conference to secure a better deal for members, workers
In April 2026, SMART leaders gathered in Washington, DC, for the 2026 NABTU Legislative Conference. From meeting with lawmakers on Capitol Hill to hearing from labor leaders and political candidates, union officers worked to secure a better deal for workers across the country.
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.
General President Coleman brings the voice of SMART members to Congress
SMART General President Michael Coleman joined the United States Congressional Labor Caucus on April 15, 2026, to bring the voice of SMART members to Congress.
Partnership pays off for Local 12 sheet metal workers, Avalotis Corporation
Good partnerships in the union sheet metal industry don’t happen by accident. They’re built the same way anything worth a damn is built: with time, trust and hard work. That’s exactly how things got rolling between Local 12 (Pittsburgh, Pa.) and Avalotis Corporation.
Coordination, proactive organizing help Local 49 prepare for opportunities in Texas, New Mexico
Construction is booming in the American Southwest, with current and upcoming projects popping up steadily in New Mexico and Texas. Thanks to the proactive work of SMART International staff and Local 49, union sheet metal workers and local community members are set to benefit.
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!
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.
SMART Local 435 leads the charge for life-changing union careers building Jacksonville Jaguars’ “Stadium of the Future”
Back in spring 2025, SMART Local 435 and organized labor announced a landmark victory in Jacksonville, Florida. Thanks to the unrelenting advocacy of Local 435 and the North Florida Building and Construction Trades Council, in a campaign led by Business Manager Lance Fout, th [...]