Message from the President - Jan '22

As we kick off 2022 I am very excited about the direction of MBCEA and am really looking forward to seeing everyone in person in Tucson after two years of virtual conferences.

I would like to give Art Hance a heartfelt Thank you! for steering us through two years of total disruption and providing an environment where we continued to work on our goals despite the pandemic – love that ZOOM!

I am always amazed and impressed with the MBCEA members. The amount of time and commitment they are willing to give to our committees, to help create training, push accreditation, market our organization, etc. is just incredible.

There is also a continuity to the MBCEA that provides a structure and the ability to accomplish big goals. The temporary bracing guideline was finished in 2021 and it is a testament to the professionalism of that committee. Mike Reynolds chaired the committee originally and then passed the baton to Keith Wentworth. John Rolfes, Tom Frahm, and Joe Allen were there from Day 1, others such as Tim and Dylan Seyler contributed as they were able. Collectively, they did a great job producing a document that will help all erectors.

Our big goals for the next two years will focus on increasing membership, stressing AC478 accreditation for our members and creating a new metal building assembly training program. You read that right - a new and complete Metal Building Assembly Training.

Think about it - the metal building industry has been static for some time. We can and will do better. 2D drawings, general installation instructions, a “show up and learn on the job” training process - our industry deserves better; todays young workers expect more.

Many erectors have been creating their own training programs by cobbling bits and pieces from the Quality and Craftsmen videos, ironworker books, carpenters etc. We plan to build a comprehensive training curriculum that can be used to train employees, be taught at craft centers and trade schools or help with an apprenticeship program.

To be successful, we will need your help. We are actively seeking metal building specific video training from our members, vendors and manufacturers to make our new program more robust and dynamic.

As the MBCEA continues to grow, we want to expand the resources available to our members. Key initiatives will focus on managing a successful business, training for our field guys and workforce development. Who couldn’t use a couple (or more) trained employees? And some best practices for running your company.

Join us in Tucson to get a jump start on this training and so much more. It's been two long years, I can't wait to see you in person.