Before joining ASCE, Smith practiced law in Northern Virginia with the firm of Hazel & Thomas, P.C., now combined with Reed Smith, LLP.  While in this position, Smith focused on commercial, construction and land use litigation in federal and state courts, and land use applications for commercial, industrial, and residential development.

In addition to his master's degree in structural engineering and bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of Virginia, Smith holds a law degree from Washington & Lee University. He is admitted to the bar in Virginia and the District of Columbia. He is also a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and an Envision Sustainability Professional (ENV SP).

In 2011, Smith received the William H. Wisely American Civil Engineer Award, which recognizes ASCE members for their continuing efforts to promote appreciation for the history, tradition, developments, and technical and professional activities of the Society.

Outside of ASCE, Smith serves as a trustee on the board of the United Engineering Foundation (UEF) and chair of the UEF Grants Committee, as well as a member of the board of directors of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), where he also serves on the Key Professional Activities Committee and Key Global Activities Committee. Smith is also a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100, Chi Epsilon, and Order of the Engineer.

Actively involved in his community, Smith serves on the Fairfax County Board of Zoning Appeals, and previously chaired bar association committees providing legal services to local homeless shelters as well as coordinating national moot court competitions. Smith has published articles on engineering ethics and legal issues and is a frequent speaker on association and civil engineering subjects.