Building the future workforce: A new era of metal building training

MCS Influencer Sasha Demyan says what sets the  Metal Building System Assembly Training Program initiative apart is its emphasis on real-world application.

As the metal building industry adapts to increasing demand, workforce shortages and advancing project complexity, modernizing how we train and develop talent has never been more critical. Strengthening training pipelines through industry collaboration is at the heart of this evolution, and the Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA), the Metal Buildings Institute (MBI) and the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) are leading the charge. 

Together, we are developing the Metal Building System Assembly Training Program — a comprehensive, industry-driven curriculum designed to transform how metal building assembly skills are taught, learned and validated. Delivered through a robust Learning Management System (LMS), this program provides a deep dive into every phase of metal building assembly, combining flexible, online learning with structured progression. This approach meets learners where they are, offering on-demand access that aligns with how today’s workforce prefers to build skills. 

What sets this initiative apart is its emphasis on real-world application. Training doesn’t stop with online modules. Learners will complete performance-based tasks that demonstrate competency in the field, ultimately leading to certification. By tying training directly to measurable outcomes, contractors can see clear returns on their investment — through improved productivity, reduced rework and enhanced safety on the jobsite.   

A key milestone for the program is its upcoming beta test with the Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC), Keystone Chapter Apprenticeship Program, scheduled to begin in September 2026. This partnership represents another critical link in strengthening the industry’s training pipeline. By integrating the curriculum into an established apprenticeship framework, the program will help meet formal training requirements while ensuring alignment with employer needs. Following this real-world validation phase, the program is targeted to go live in early 2027.   

In addition to supporting apprenticeships, the program plays a vital role in upskilling the existing workforce. As building systems evolve, workers must continuously adapt to new materials, methods and expectations. Technology-enabled learning allows experienced professionals to refine their skills without leaving the jobsite, creating a culture of continuous improvement across the industry. 

Ultimately, the Metal Building System Assembly Training Program reflects a forward-thinking approach to workforce development — one that combines the strength of industry partnerships, the power of technology and a commitment to measurable skill development. By investing in this initiative, we are not only addressing today’s labor challenges but also building a stronger, more resilient workforce for the future of the metal building industry.