Strike avoided: SMART-TD Local 1594 reaches tentative agreement with SEPTA. A victory for transit workers’ safety and dignity 

SMART-TD Local 1594 has reached a tentative agreement with SEPTA, securing crucial safety upgrades, including bulletproof glass enclosures for operators, and a 5% wage increase for workers. This victory follows intense negotiations and solidarity with TWU Local 234, ensuring transit workers in Philadelphia are better protected and supported in their vital roles.

Virginia and D.C. legislative boards merge  

The SMART-TD Virginia and D.C. Boards have merged to enhance advocacy and safety for workers in both regions, streamlining operations and creating a unified voice at local, state, and federal levels. Led by Ronnie Hobbs, the merger aims to better represent SMART-TD members and advocate for legislative changes that protect workers' rights.

National Apprenticeship Week spotlight: Areesa Willie

Each year during National Apprenticeship Week, SMART highlights the life-changing power of a union apprenticeship — from stellar pay and benefits to lifelong solidarity and fulfilling career paths. As part of the SMART Women’s Committee’s National Apprenticeship Week spotlight series, Local 17 (Boston, Mass.) sister Areesa Willie, a fourth-year apprentice, talks about how much she enjoys learning new things in the sheet metal trade (and getting paid to do it).

SMART launches “Be Excellent” challenge; members encouraged to share stories of solidarity

As union sheet metal workers, SMART members practice excellence every day in our craft. Now, as part of the I Got Your Back campaign, we are challenging members to Be Excellent. The Be Excellent challenge asks SMART members to incorporate small but important practices into their routines to build camaraderie with each other and reinforce union solidarity.

A tribute to a family railroad legacy 

SMART-TD honors Joyce Mendoza, whose family’s deep ties to the railroad industry span generations, with a heartfelt thank you for her ongoing commitment to safety and union values. Her donation of her father’s railroad lantern symbolizes the dedication of past and present railroad workers, a testament to the sacrifices that have shaped our communities.