SEAA Launches Modern Erector Certification

The Steel Erectors Association of America (SEAA) has launched Modern Erector certification, a third-party certification program for contractors in the structural steel, reinforcing steel, and metal decking disciplines.

The certification is designed to assess organizations on documented systems and processes related to business operations, culture and employee engagement, safety and risk management, employee experience and benefits, training and workforce development, and quality and technical excellence.

“Modern Erector is the industry’s only credential that encompasses all aspects of a business culture,” said Pete Gum, executive director. The certification uses documented systems and processes to evaluate contractors across several areas, including safety, quality, workforce development, employee experience, culture, and business operations.

According to SEAA, the certification is intended to provide a third-party assessment of a company's practices across the areas included in the program.

“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.”

Modern Erector certification is designed to work alongside AISC Certification. AISC Certification addresses structural quality management systems and technical erection compliance, while Modern Erector assesses areas beyond technical quality, including safety, workforce development, employee experience, culture, and business operations.

Applicants for Modern Erector certification receive points under the Quality & Technical Excellence category for holding AISC Certified Erector status.

Modern Erector certification is open to industry contractors that have been in business for at least three years. SEAA members receive discounted application fees.

Applicants also receive feedback on their performance, which SEAA describes as a roadmap for strengthening culture, training, safety, and operations each year.

“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 red icon represents vertical building construction as well as the goal of raising standards of excellence, according to SEAA.

SEAA said Modern Erector certification is intended to recognize documented practices across multiple areas of steel erection operations, including safety, quality, workforce development, and business operations.