Who We Are and How It Started

From our early roots to today—building safer workplaces, growing careers, and strengthening Wisconsin communities.

We are sheet metal workers, fabricators, installers, welders, technicians and problem-solvers.

Who We Are

SMART18 represents skilled sheet metal professionals across nearly all of Wisconsin, serving communities large and small — from major city job sites to rural towns statewide.

SMART18 is more than a union. It’s a statewide community of professionals who show up every day, work with their hands, think ahead and take pride in building Wisconsin.

SMART18 provides an environment where you can not only be successful as an employee but also as a human.

What Our Members Do

Our members install, fabricate, test and maintain the systems that make buildings work, including:

HVAC systems
Testing, Adjusting, Balancing (TAB)
Industrial
Kitchen & Specialty
CAD Detailers
Shop Manufacturing
Service Technician
Architectural

We take pride in doing the job right, looking out for one another and passing skills on through apprenticeship and mentorship.

How We Started

Stronger Together Since Day One

Founded on October 1, 1982, through the unification of nine proud Wisconsin locals, Local 18 brought together members from Milwaukee, the Fox Valley, Racine, Sheboygan, Eau Claire, La Crosse, Wausau, Madison and Janesville to create one stronger, statewide Union.

Since then, SMART Local 18 has grown into a statewide Union of skilled professionals who build, install and maintain the systems that keep Wisconsin’s buildings running.

While the tools and technology have evolved, our foundation remains the same: support our members, protect the trade and invest in the next generation.

Join SMART18 today!

SMART 18 Historical Timeline

Your Path with SMART Local 18

Whether you’re exploring a new career or looking to grow in the trades, SMART Local 18 provides the training, support, and opportunities to help you succeed.

Start Your Career

Begin your journey in the trades with hands-on training and real-world experience through our apprenticeship programs.

Support for Life

Enjoy competitive benefits including healthcare, retirement plans, and exclusive member perks designed for long-term security.

Earn What You Deserve

See how SMART Local 18 members earn strong wages with clear growth from apprenticeship to journeyworker.

The People Behind SMART18

Leadership & Officers

Driven by a sense of support and shared success, our leaders and officers work to ensure every member has the opportunity to thrive—on the job, and in life.