Jurisdiction Department

Mission Statement

The main purpose of the Jurisdictional Department is to perpetuate the performance and dignity of the Sheet Metal trade from generation to generation. Through the efforts of the Department Staff, both in the field and in the office headquarters in Washington, D. C., this department services local unions throughout the United States and Canada in all matters of jurisdiction. This would also include any other issues affecting SMWIA members and local unions directed by the General President and the General Secretary Treasurer of the Sheet Metal Workers' International Association.

The Department maintains jurisdictional records on sheet metal assignments supplied by local unions, Decisions and Agreements of Record, Arbitration cases and Court Decisions. These records are now available through the Jurisdictional Electronic Library. Access to this library is restricted to authorized personnel. If you are authorized to access this library you may click here. Also in its files are the National Agreements between the Sheet Metal Workers and other International Unions. The Department is also responsible for negotiating and developing national agreements dealing with the trade and handles negotiations with other International Unions on craft activities.

The Jurisdictional Department is the direct representative for the General President in all matters involving the Plan for Settlement of Jurisdictional Disputes.

This is only a limited explanation of the role of the Jurisdictional Department. The overall mission is to service the local unions and SMWIA membership efficiently to maintain our craft and the quality of life for our membership and their families.

Charles F. Mulcahy, Chief International Representative and Director of the Jurisdiction Department, may be reached at 202-662-0825.

Charles F. Henson is the Assistant Director of Jurisdiction and can be contacted at 202-662-0831.