Sheet Metal News
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 [...]
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!
Women’s History Month Spotlights Trailblazing Union Sisters
As Women’s History Month draws to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the remarkable SMART-TD sisters who are making history every day and challenging what it means to be a powerful leader in traditionally male-dominated industries. Whether on the rails or on the road, these fearless women are committed to making things better for those who will follow in their footsteps.
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.
Local 105 organizer named San Gabriel Valley Volunteer of the Year
On March 26, 2026, Local 105 (Southern California) SMART Army Coordinator and Organizer Eric Farrar was honored with the San Gabriel Valley (SGV) Volunteer of the Year Award, presented by California State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez of Council District 25.