Category: Spring 2026
Local 5 feeds those in need for the holidays
On December 22, 2025, the Local 5 (East Tennessee) SMART Army hosted a food drive for the local community, putting our union’s values into practice.
Veterans helping veterans: SMART members help build new VA Medical Center in Kentucky
In Kentucky, SMART Local 110 members and military veterans are working on a project that means something extra: a massive new Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center that will provide health care for those who served.
A tribute to Joseph B. Thurmond: 84 years and counting as a SMART member
Joseph B. Thurmond, a longtime Indianapolis SMART member, spent his career paving the way for all of us today. Joe joined Local 20 in 1941, working for two years before being drafted into the military. He had the honor of serving two years in the 94th Infantry Division under General Patton.
Honoring retired Local 170 Business Manager Mario Vega
In the summer of 2025, SMART Local 170 (Pico Rivera, California) recognized and celebrated the incredible career and lasting impact of Mario A. Vega, who retired after 42 years of dedication to SMART as a member, leader and strong advocate for the unionized production and manufacturing industry.
Local 9 member crafts custom copper lantern
Local 9 (Colorado) member Jacob Stone recently completed his apprenticeship capstone assignment in impressive fashion, crafting a custom copper lantern featuring acid etching and intricate design work.
Local 18 holds COMET class despite -10 degree weather
Second-, third- and fourth-year apprentices braved the Wisconsin winter cold to attend Local 18’s Wausau-area Construction Organizing Membership Education Training (COMET) classes in January.