MBCEA shares initiatives and growth at 2026 conference

By The Coffee Shops. 

Accreditation and collaboration take center stage at MBCEA conference. 

At the 2026 MBCEA Conference, discussions centered around the latest industry insights and how to best move the industry forward. From prioritizing accreditations and educational initiatives to embracing the booming growth in membership and plans for the future, there was plenty of excitement happening across the event. Here’s a closer look at the highlights! 

Elevating the industry with AC478 

One significant note came from Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA) leaders, who said that the AC478 accreditation for metal building erectors is gaining traction as owners and architects look for higher-quality installation on projects. As the most comprehensive accreditation for metal building assembly, the AC478 Accreditation confirms contractor and erector compliance in documented safety and training program and management system, in addition to jobsite specific assembly plans, according to the MBCEA.  

Association President David Leinbach of Kaiser Martin Group cited a Pennsylvania public school project where the architect specified that the installer held AC478 accreditation, which was a first in his experience. David shared with the architect that there are only four or five contractors who would currently meet that requirement. The architect said it didn’t matter that only a few were accredited, they insist on the AC478 accreditation because they have had bad experiences with inconsistent workmanship on jobs.   

The AC478 committee has set a goal of reaching 100 accredited erectors by 2027. Currently there are only 28 contractors who hold accreditation and 10 who are in the process. David also stressed the importance of close collaboration with the Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA), noting MBMA’s related AC472 program has been in place for about 15 years. “We can’t survive without each other. We have to work together,” he said. 

Membership is growing rapidly 

David reported that membership continues to increase, with more than 800 members spanning the United States, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, India and Tokyo. MBCEA’s monthly webinar series, launched as a member benefit under Robert Tiffin’s presidency, remains a popular resource. Attendance is steadily increasing as members appreciate the convenience and relevance of these virtual sessions. Recordings are available to members on the website. For the latest updates, visit the event page. 

Education initiative nearing launch 

As MBCEA approaches the exciting launch of their metal curriculum, David took a minute to recognize the generous contributions from supporters who have made this effort possible. This $1 million initiative was funded by $500,000 contributed by members and a matching grant from the Ketenbrink fund that was put in place by Bob Ketenbrink to focus on education for the industry.  

As Bob told Metal Construction News in 2012, “The most important thing in the metal construction industry today is the training that is needed to safely and correctly install the material so the end user gets the best quality for his investment.” 

Nine of the 14 modules are complete or nearing final approval and ready for test drives. The curriculum promises to be a game changer, delivered through an interactive learning management system accessible via computer or mobile devices. MBCEA sincerely thanks everyone who has donated to this effort, and they are currently looking for contractor members to beta test the modules.  

The job board is live and offering discounts through May 

The MBCEA has launched a new job board, accessible through its website and integrated with member accounts, aimed at connecting metal building professionals, contractors and directors with skilled talent. The platform is tailored specifically for the metal building industry, offering employers increased visibility of job openings and flexible posting options. Job seekers can explore industry roles, post resumes, receive instant job recommendations and match scores, and set up job alerts.  

“Whether you’re hiring in the field, in the office or at the leadership level, this platform is built to help our industry grow and succeed,” MBCEA Executive Director Sasha Demyan said. “The latest job postings have already been transitioned to the new board, and MBCEA members can receive 20% off job postings through May.” For more information or to get started, visit jobs.nbcea.org. 

Conference growth and expansion for 2027 

Next year’s conference will mark a significant shift, reflecting the rapid growth seen in recent years. Membership has surged, annual conference attendance is on the rise, and vendor participation has exceeded the capacity of traditional setups. As contractors and directors request expanded training opportunities and suppliers look for more impactful ways to showcase products, organizers are responding by broadening the exhibit hall, offering larger booth spaces and on-site product-specific training. 

The 2027 conference will be held May 5-7 in Kansas City and will feature targeted breakout sessions for attendees from both associations, including owners, managers, sales teams and assemblers, as well as dedicated time for networking and collaboration. The event will continue valued traditions such as the MBMA Spring Meeting, the contractor erector roundtable and the awards celebrations. “This is an opportunity for all of us to work together, to strengthen the metal building industry,” Sasha said. “The more voices we bring together, the stronger we become.”