Aaron Smith

“I believe we can build a better tomorrow by creating good jobs, taking control of our children’s education, and by standing with our law enforcement who risk their lives to make our communities safer.”

Aaron is a husband, father, and business owner in Marion, IL.  After graduating from a Southern Illinois high school, Aaron attended John A. Logan College and Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.  He graduated with a degree in education and spent the beginning of his career working in Southern Illinois schools.

In 2009 Aaron married Brittany (Ross) of Marion, and re-enrolled at SIU to complete an MBA.  During that time Aaron worked at area churches, and began his career in the construction industry, working with local tradespeople and unions and learning how to build career jobs for Southern Illinoisans. 

After completing his MBA, Aaron co-founded Smith Hafeli, Inc., a commercial construction firm providing career jobs for our neighbors right here in Southern Illinois.  Since its founding, Smith Hafeli has grown into a regional leader, performing work in multiple states throughout the Midwest.

In 2019 Aaron took his business experience and education back to the community college where his education began – and was elected to the John A. Logan College Board of Trustees, where he currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Board, Chairman of Finance, and representative to the Illinois Association.

When not working, Aaron and Brittany are raising their 4 children, Chase (11), Haddon (9), Auggie (6), and Noraa (4).  When not at the office or sleeping, Aaron and the family are likely out on a baseball field somewhere in the Midwest.