SEAA Launches Certification Program

The Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA) announces the launch of a certification program designed to define, recognize, and celebrate the very best places to work in the industry. Representing structural steel, reinforcing steel, and metal decking disciplines, Modern Erector certification is a third-party validation of organizations that intentionally cultivate exceptional people, systems, and cultures. 

“Modern Erector is the industry’s only credential that encompasses all aspects of a business culture,” said Pete Gum, Executive Director.

It is an evidence-based certification developed to reflect the values SEAA stands for—safety, quality, workforce development, operational excellence, and commitment to the craft. Companies are assessed on the level of proven systems and documented processes in these areas:

• Business Operations
• Culture & Employee Engagement
• Safety & Risk Management
• Employee Experience & Benefits
• Training & Workforce Development
• Quality & Technical Excellence

“Modern Erector certification differentiates your company during prequalification, bidding, and negotiations by demonstrating that you operate with professionalism,” said Glen Pisani, Chairman of SEAA’s Strategic Planning Committee.

He continued: “Today’s workforce expects more than a paycheck. Modern Erector companies demonstrate commitment to employee well-being, training, communication, and leadership — making you an employer of choice.”

How AISC Certification Contributes to Modern Erector Scoring

Modern Erector certification works alongside AISC Certification. AISC Certification tells specifiers that you care about structural quality management systems (QMS) and technical erection compliance.

The Modern Erector credential signals your company’s high standards beyond technical quality, including safety, workforce development, employee experience, culture and business operations. Modern Erector applicants receive points under Quality & Technical Excellence for holding AISC Certified Erector status.

In this way, the two certifications work side-by-side.

Representing structural steel, reinforcing steel, and metal decking disciplines, Modern Erector certification is a third-party validation of organizations that intentionally cultivate exceptional people, systems, and cultures.

Representing the Industry

“In developing this new certification, which is unique to the steel construction industry, we intentionally designed a logo representing all facets of steel construction,” said Jack Nix, President of Shelby Erectors, Inc., and former President of SEAA.

He continues: “The icons form a complete visual tribute to the industry’s core crafts—structural steel, reinforcing steel, and metal decking—emphasizing the importance of skill, precision, and collaboration across steel erection disciplines.” The fourth icon in red dually represents the physical (vertical building construction) and the ideal (raising standards of excellence.)

Modern Erector is open to any industry contractor that has been in business for at least three years. SEAA members receive discounted application fees. All applicants receive feedback on performance — a roadmap to strengthen culture, training, safety, and operations each year.

• Learn more at https://www.seaa.net/modern-erector.html.