David Smarte: There's No Question Not Worth Asking Artwork

Elevator Careers

Elevator Careers is a podcast dedicated to the people who spend their lives and careers working in the vertical transportation industry. It is produced for the benefit of both elevator companies who are looking to hire great talent and for those who want to continue to grow professionally within the industry. This is an opportunity to create a dialogue with all of these stakeholders, learning from them and hearing the gems they have gleaned in their professions. The "Elevator Careers" podcast” is an opportunity to pay it forward" by sharing knowledge learned in the business and in the trade and helping others who are on similar journeys.

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Elevator Careers

David Smarte: There's No Question Not Worth Asking

March 10, 2025 • Matt Allred • Season 4 • Episode 5

Intro:
Today our guest is David Smarte, Global Education and Safety Officer with the National Association of Elevator Contractors.
David started his career in 1978 as a union apprentice in Ocean City, MD and spent over 20 years in the field. David started specializing in safety over 20 years ago and joined the NAEC in a staff position in 2021 with a desire to drive safety education throughout the industry. David loves the elevator industry and loves helping keep people safe; he is passionate about learning and believes every question is worth asking.

Summary:
David Smarte, Global Education and Safety Officer at the National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC), discussed his 40-year career in the elevator industry, emphasizing safety and education. He highlighted his transition from a union apprentice in 1978 to a safety specialist and his current role at NAEC. Smart praised the industry's collaborative spirit and the importance of networking and continuous learning. He underscored the need for safety education and the role of organizations like OSHA and NEI in promoting best practices. Smart also noted the underrepresentation of small, independent shops and NAEC's efforts to support them through training and networking opportunities.