President's Message - Feb '26
Harnessing AI to Strengthen Performance Across the Metal Building Industry
With the MBCEA Conference approaching on April 22–24, AI will take the spotlight as a key driver of progress within the metal building construction sector. Once considered a niche technology, AI is rapidly becoming an essential tool for contractors and erectors committed to operational excellence, tighter schedules, and safer jobsites.
Improving Project Predictability for Metal Building Teams
Coordinating design, fabrication, delivery, and erection is inherently complex. AI‑powered systems can evaluate project schedules, flag potential delays, and recommend adjustments before they impact the field. These predictive capabilities help reduce rework and support smoother, more reliable project delivery—critical advantages for contractors working within tight timelines and phased metal building installations.
Enhancing Jobsite Safety for Erectors
Safety remains one of MBCEA’s core values. AI‑driven cameras and sensors can now detect missing PPE, equipment hazards, and unsafe behaviors in real time, allowing supervisors to respond quickly and prevent incidents. This type of proactive monitoring is especially valuable for erection crews who often work at height and within fast‑moving environments.
Raising Quality While Reducing Rework
Rework is costly, and in metal building projects it can create schedule setbacks and coordination challenges. AI‑supported quality‑control tools use image recognition and 3D scanning to compare current conditions against digital plans, identifying issues early so teams can correct them before they escalate. The result is more consistent quality and a better final product.
Supporting Workforce Efficiency Amid Labor Shortages
Labor shortages remain a concern across the construction industry, including metal building erection. AI tools that automate scheduling, material tracking, and reporting allow crews to focus on installation work rather than administrative tasks. Importantly, AI enhances—not replaces—the workforce by taking on repetitive, data‑heavy tasks so project leaders can focus on leading crews and solving challenges in the field.
Simplifying Compliance and Documentation
With greater attention on prevailing wage requirements, certified payroll, and regulatory oversight, AI can help contractors stay compliant. Automated data capture improves accuracy, lowers risk, and reduces the administrative burden that often falls on already‑stretched project teams.
Positioning MBCEA Members for the Future
Technology is no longer optional in construction—it’s a requirement for staying competitive. AI strengthens safety, reduces risk, increases precision, and streamlines operations across all phases of metal building work. By adopting AI thoughtfully, MBCEA members can gain a clear advantage in an evolving marketplace and deliver projects that meet the highest standards of quality and safety. See you in Colorado Springs.
David Leinbach President, MBCEA President, Kaiser-Martin Group