What We Stand For
Our core values reflect who we are and how we show up for our members and communities every day.
Our Pursuit of Excellence
Our Misson
To assure that every Sheet Metal Worker enjoys the full benefits of Union representation and membership for a better quality of life.
To achieve the power to set the best terms and conditions of employment for every Sheet Metal Workers in our jurisdiction.
To make the greatest possible gains for every member of our Union.
To assume a leading role in revitalizing the labor movement.
Ensuring Safe and Fair Work Environments
Our Vision
SMART (the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers) is a 21st-century labor Union dedicated to protecting and improving the quality of life for men and women working in sheet metal, shipyards, manufacturing and transportation across the U.S. and Canada.
Our values
What Sets Us Apart
At SMART18, it’s not just what we believe—it’s how we act. We stand behind our members, support one another and build a Union community that thrives on respect, skill and shared success.
The Member
Advantage
Being part of SMART18 offers you more than just increased wages, enhanced benefits and a secure workplace.
Beyond the Basics: The Comprehensive Benefits of SMART Membership
With a robust membership exceeding 200,000 individuals, we have the collective power to consolidate our resources and secure substantial discounts when dealing with financial institutions, lenders, and a variety of service providers.
Evolving for Your Advantage: SMART’s Commitment to Expanding Benefits
Our commitment to you doesn’t stop at the essentials. SMART continually enhances and broadens the range of benefits available to you as a valued Union member. We are dedicated to ensuring that you receive the utmost value from your membership, offering you an ever-improving array of advantages. A small selection of these member-only benefits are listed below:
- Accident insurance
- Life insurance
- Health savings accounts
- Competitive low-rate loans
- Mortgage and real estate services
- Auto insurance
- Legal services
- Entertainment discounts (sporting events, concerts, movies, amusement parks, flowers)
- Discounted tools and equipment
- Lower-cost cellular services
Community
Our Union family extends its reach across diverse industry landscapes.
Our Rich History: From Humble Beginnings to Diverse Representation
Since the inception of our predecessor Unions, SMART has undergone remarkable growth, expanding to encompass a broad spectrum of industry sectors and occupations. Our membership now includes professionals in various roles, such as freight and passenger rail conductors, bus operators, HVAC technicians, and the skilled sign installers responsible for illuminating iconic landmarks like New York City’s dazzling Times Square.
A Thriving Community: SMART Members Across Industries and Geographies
Today, our Union family extends its reach across diverse industry landscapes, with our dedicated members contributing their expertise in the construction industry, rail workshops, shipyards, nuclear power plants, rail yards, various manufacturing facilities, and throughout the expansive tapestry of America’s interconnected transportation network. It’s quite probable that the HVAC technician you relied on during air conditioning or heating troubles and the bus operator who safely transported you or your children to work or school is fellow SMART members, exemplifying our commitment to excellence and service across the nation.
At SMART18, we believe people are entitled to work without discrimination, harassment or bullying.
Our Commitment to a Discrimination-Free Environment
At SMART 18, discrimination, harassment, hazing, or bullying is strictly forbidden within our membership.We stand resolutely against any form of prejudice or bias based on race, color, religion, age, creed, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital/parental/family status, veteran’s status, disability, or any other legally protected class.
Strength in Diversity: Building a Stronger, More Competitive Workforce
SMART18 recognizes the profound value of diversity within the workforce. We firmly believe that diversity not only strengthens our Union but also enriches our communities and enhances the competitiveness of the sheet metal and transportation industries. Our mission is to transform the perspectives of management, labor leaders, and our members alike. We strive to actively recruit, warmly welcome and ardently retain the most proficient and skilled workforce available, all while celebrating the beautiful tapestry of differences in age, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, national origin, language, marital status, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, and all the other characteristics that make each individual uniquely remarkable.
Our Code of Excellence
Building Excellence On Every Jobsite
Our Code of Excellence sets high standards for professionalism, safety, conduct and quality on every project. It reflects our commitment as SMART18 members to show up on time, work hard, build right and represent our Union and partners with pride.