The term “sheet metal” refers to any metal that can be formed into flat pieces of varying thicknesses. Using specialized tools, sheet metal workers cut, roll, bend and shape pieces to make a wide variety of objects, like ductwork, kitchen hoods or decorative panels. The sheet metal industry is the only building trade that designs and fabricates what it installs.

Sheet metal is one of the most varied and diversified of all the skilled building trades. Sheet metal workers can choose to work in general construction; become certified in a specialty like architectural work or testing, adjusting and balancing (TAB); work for a company or general contractor; or start their own business. Sheet metal workers can also hold a union office, work for their trade association, teach classes, help write the standards and manuals that guide the industry or join a professional organization or technical committee.

The International Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation workers, or SMART, is the international union organization of which Local 36 is a member and represents more than 230,000 members in the United States and Canada. If you’re a member of Local 36, you’re a member of SMART. SMART has its roots as the Tin, Sheet Iron and Cornice Workers’ International Association which began in 1888, and in 2011, it merged with the United Transportation Union.
Learn more about SMART here.