Leadership Transitions at SMART-NERC
Brothers and Sisters,
I want to personally share an update with you as I begin a new chapter serving our union. I have been given the distinct honor of being appointed as an International Representative with the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers.
After a lifetime spent in Local 17 and the Northeast Council, I have accepted this new position with great honor and pride. My journey with this Union began in 1986, when I entered the Local 17 apprenticeship program at the JATC in Dorchester, graduating in 1991. Like many of you, I learned this trade on the job, side by side, with union Brothers and Sisters, and I’ve spent the last four decades fighting to protect our work and build opportunities for the next generation.
Serving as Business Agent, Business Manager, and most recently, President of SMART-NERC, has been the privilege of my career. Every step of the way, I’ve been guided by our Union’s values of solidarity, accountability, and doing right by the membership.
As I step into this new role at the International level, I’m confident in the leadership stepping forward.
The Executive Council has appointed Russell Bartash as President of the SMART Northeast Regional Council and Robert Maloney as Financial Secretary-Treasurer of the SMART Northeast Regional Council. Appointments are effective Friday, February 6th.
Both bring strong experience and a deep commitment to serving the membership. Their appointments ensure that the work of the Council continues without interruption and that members remain fully represented at every level of our union.
Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me over the years. It’s been an honor to serve, and I’m proud of where our Union is headed.
If you have any questions about this transition, we encourage you to contact your local leadership.
In solidarity,
Bob Butler
