The AFL-CIO Executive Council congratulates Bruce R. Smith, our friend and brother, on his well-deserved recent retirement from the United Steelworkers (USW). Smith was the president of the Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics and Allied Workers International Union (GMP) until its merger with the United Steelworkers in 2016. In addition to his service on the Executive Council, Smith was a trustee on a number of Taft-Hartley pension plans, health and welfare plans and the GMP—Employers Retiree Trust.
Smith didn’t just preach solidarity, he practiced it, most notably by spearheading the merger of GMP with USW. Through his leadership, GMP brought a proud history—dating back to 1842—to the USW. His hard work throughout his career will ensure that union members have the needed strength and support for years to come.
Smith started his labor career at Noreen Pattern & Foundry in Fruitport, Michigan, in 1972, and was elected business agent in 1977. He also served as an officer in the West Michigan Area Labor Council.
Smith served as international secretary-treasurer of the GMP beginning in July 2004 and was reelected by acclamation to a second four-year term in 2008. He became GMP international president in January 2010.
The AFL-CIO Executive Council sends our congratulations on a well-deserved retirement.