SMART Begins Rolling Out Regional Director Positions

SMART has announced the rollout of new Regional Director positions nationwide to strengthen coordination and engagement at the regional level. The Eastern Region is the first area in which an appointment has been made

Jill Ashton has been named SMART’s new Eastern Regional Director. Jill joins SMART following her service in the Biden Administration, where she worked on labor and workforce-related policy initiatives. Her background includes experience navigating federal agencies, coordinating with state and local stakeholders, and advancing workforce development priorities.

In her new role, Jill will work closely with SMACNA’s Special Assistant for Government and Political Affairs, Denise Murphy McGraw, to engage with SMACNA chapters throughout the East Coast. This collaboration will focus on strengthening communication between national and local partners, supporting chapter-level advocacy efforts, and advancing policies that support union mechanical contractors, workforce development, and long-term industry stability.

SMACNA looks forward to continued collaboration with SMART as chapters navigate an increasingly active state and federal policy environment.