David Smith was born in Stockton-on-Tees, UK and schooled in Middlesbrough and West Hartlepool, UK.

In 1966 he graduated with Bachelor of Science Degree (B.Sc.) in Civil Engineering from Sunderland University, UK

That same year he emigrated to Canada where he worked for the provincial government and consulting engineering companies in many highway and civil engineering projects in Ontario and Newfoundland.

David came to Israel in 1996 (making aliyah in 1999) to start a transportation consultancy, which grew to a staff of 80 professionals. Some projects were the light rail project in Tel Aviv, Highway 6 and the Intel plant in Kiryat Gat.

He retired in 2010 and since then enjoys hiking, photography, reading on Israeli issues, karate and travel. He also volunteers teaching karate to children with special needs, does kitchen help at Beit shel Benji (a home for lone soldiers), and military support at Sar El.

Married to Carol, an accomplished quilter, they have three children and three grand-daughters in the UK and Canada.