Apprenticeship is at the Center in the Bigger Picture

It is the stated objective of the Metal Building Contractors & Erectors Association to “support the professional advancement of the metal buildings industry”. This effort comes in a variety of forms that are, by design, a wholistic approach to bringing more people into the trade and helping those already here get better. Apprenticeship is a part of that larger integrated effort to accomplish the MBCEA’s strategic objective. 

The development and advancement of the AC 478 program has been a game changer for the metal building industry. It has provided an opportunity for metal building contractors and erectors to demonstrate competency and show third parties that metal buildings are one of the best ways to complete a project. Companies who are certified easily demonstrate a level of professionalism that almost sells itself.

The work being done by the Ketenbrink Foundation and MBI in partnership with NCCER is another project that will draw people into the trade. As it comes online, the program will present the younger generations with an opportunity to get advanced training in a manner with which they are more accustomed. Using technology to train and prepare students for jobs in the metal building industry not only makes the training easier, it shows potential workers that the industry is in the game in terms of technology.

Apprenticeship is another path in this integrated model MBCEA is developing to improve the industry. It provides the detailed classroom work and invaluable hands on OJT that allows workers to grow into valuable employees. Studies show that companies perform better with highly trained personnel; and people who go through apprenticeship programs make on average $300,000 more during their working career. 

By establishing a federally approved apprenticeship program for metal building assemblers, the MBCEA and MBI took a critical first step. Programs now need to be established in individual states to keep the momentum going. Efforts are underway with the MBCEA Apprenticeship Committee to get those state programs operational. Your help and support is critical to making this next prong in the MBCEA mission a success.

This is a call to arms – get involved and give whatever time you are able. This project is critically important to achieving the MBCEA’s mission.