By The Coffee Shops®.

A decade of lessons that transformed a skilled tradesperson into a successful business owner.

Starting a company often begins with having confidence in your skill set and a deep understanding of the trade. Sustaining that company, however, requires an entirely different set of skills.

n a recent MetalCast™ episode, Karen Edwards sat down with Clinton Benn, owner of CMB Erectors in Brantford, Ontario, to discuss the company's 10-year anniversary and the journey from metal building erector to business leader.

Clinton said the idea for launching CMB Erectors emerged after he returned to Ontario from Alberta in 2016 and recognized an opportunity in the market. While larger erector firms had continued to grow, he saw a gap for customers looking for the services traditionally offered by midsized contractors.

Getting started, however, proved to be about more than assembling crews and finding projects. "The real turning point comes from recognizing everything that was happening behind the scenes that was keeping those companies alive that you were working for," Clinton explained. He pointed to branding, business development, insurance, certifications, training and cash flow as critical responsibilities that many skilled tradespeople underestimate.

That realization led to one of his biggest lessons as a business owner: understanding which opportunities to pursue and which to decline. "Being able to say no became essential," Clinton said, noting that identifying work and customers that align with a company's long-term direction is just as important as securing new projects.

He also reflected on the pricing challenges many contractors face in their early years. Looking back, Clinton believes contractors often focus too heavily on competing through lower prices rather than communicating value. "In hindsight," he said, "I should have been trying to increase my pricing and sell my value rather than, you know, trying to sell a cheaper price."

For Clinton, the first decade of CMB Erectors highlights a reality familiar to many contractors: technical expertise may open the door, but long-term growth comes from learning how to run a business.

CMB Erectors' journey demonstrates that successful growth often depends on embracing responsibilities that extend well beyond the jobsite.

Listen to the full podcast or watch the recording to learn more about building a successful metal building erection business.

September 16, 2026 - 2 p.m. ET | 11 a.m. PT

In this MetalTalk™, sponsored by MBCEA and Western States Metal Roofing, host Karen Edwards welcomes Steven Hudgins of Rainwater Construction Company, Justin Willett of Fleming Construction Group/Fleming Steel Erectors, and Bryan Harshbarger of Briner Building, Inc. for a discussion on how artificial intelligence is making its way into metal building construction and erection. From project planning and communication to document management and operational efficiency, AI is a practical tool for contractors looking to improve workflows and make more informed decisions. The panelists share real-world examples of how they're using AI today, lessons learned from implementation, common misconceptions and challenges, and their thoughts on how AI may shape the future of the metal building industry. Whether you're already experimenting with AI or just beginning to explore its potential, this webinar will provide practical insights you can take back to your business. 

Register today!

By Emma Peterson. 

This webinar offers real-world lessons from metal building contractors on how AI can improve your operations. 

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, it’s finding its way into more and more sectors of the roofing industry. To talk about where AI is cropping up in the metal building construction and erection market, we will be hosting a MetalTalk™ titled How Erectors Are Putting AI to Work. This webinar, which is sponsored by the Metal Building Contractors & Erectors Association (MBCEA) and Western States Metal Roofing, will be live on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 11 a.m. PT (2 p.m. ET).  

Meet the panel 

Joining MetalCoffeeShop host Karen Edwards for this conversation will be three incredible experts, Steven Hudgins, Justin Willett and Bryan Harshbarger. 

Steven is the president of Rainwater Construction Company. Prior to taking on this role, Steven worked in different parts of the commercial construction industry with roles such as vice president of sales, manager of business development and corporate accounts, and senior global corporate accounts manager.  

As for Justin, he boasts a career that spans more than two decades in construction. It began in sales at Butler Manufacturing and has given him extensive building retrofit and energy efficiency expertise. Today, Justin has taken the helm of Fleming Construction Group/Fleming Steel Erectors as their president. 

And last but certainly not least, Bryan is the president of Briner Building, Inc., a leading design-build general contractor. His career with the company began over 19 years ago as a project manager and estimator. Today, in addition to his work at Briner, Bryan serves as vice president and a board member of the MBCEA and as president of the Adams Wells Manufacturing Alliance. 

Putting AI to work 

These three experts will be sitting down with Karen Edwards for a discussion of how AI can be used as a practical tool for contractors in the metal building industry. They will open with the many different ways they have seen AI integrated into different operations and then dive into real-world examples of how they are using it to improve workflows and make more informed decisions.  

From there, the conversation will shift into implementation of AI as the panelists share easy entry points for contractors, lessons learned from implementation and how to overcome common challenges. Whether you're already experimenting with AI or just beginning to think about its potential, this webinar is a powerful resource for your team.  

The webinar is coming up on September 16, 2026! Make sure to register to attend live.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Funding quality craftsmanship and building the future workforce. 

One of the biggest challenges facing the construction industry today is finding and developing skilled workers. For metal building contractors, investing in training is essential not only for workforce development but also for maintaining quality standards and meeting accreditation requirements. A new funding opportunity from the Ketenbrink Education Foundation (KEF) is making that investment easier by helping companies offset the cost of training their teams.

The foundation is currently offering immediate mini grants for companies that enroll employees in the Metal Building Institute (MBI) Quality and Craftsmanship (Q&C) 101 training series. According to information shared by Jacqueline Meiluta, companies can receive $250 in grant funding for each employee who successfully completes and passes the testing portion of the training program, with grants available for up to five employees per company. 

The financial benefit is significant. While the Q&C 101 testing costs $110 per participant, contractors can receive $250 per employee through the grant program, creating a positive return on their training investment while strengthening workforce capabilities. 

The opportunity comes at a critical time as the industry continues to focus on workforce development, safety and installation quality. The Q&C training program is designed to help workers better understand metal building construction standards and best practices. In fact, completion of MBI Quality and Craftsmanship training is a required component of AC478 accreditation, making the program especially valuable for contractors pursuing or maintaining accreditation status. 

The grant funding is being provided through the Ketenbrink Education Foundation, whose mission is to help metal building construction workers and aspiring industry professionals acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field. The foundation also works to improve the availability of technical and practical training throughout the metal building industry. 

As noted in the foundation's materials, industry leader Bob Ketenbrink emphasized the importance of proper training, stating that one of the most important needs in the metal construction industry is ensuring workers are trained to safely and correctly install materials so building owners receive the highest quality results from their investment. 

To encourage participation, KEF has allocated $50,000 to the program, enough to support approximately 200 newly trained craftsmen across the industry. The grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis and will close once funding has been exhausted. Each company is eligible for up to $1,250 in total grant funding. 

Programs like this demonstrate how industry associations and foundations continue to invest in the future of construction. By helping contractors reduce training costs while improving workforce competency, the KEF grant program creates a win-win opportunity for employers, employees and the customers who depend on quality construction. 

Contractors interested in taking advantage of the funding should act quickly while grants remain available. Applications can be submitted through the foundation's online application process. 

Learn more about the grant opportunity and apply today through the KEF application portal. Investing in training today can help strengthen your workforce, support accreditation goals and position your company for long-term success. 

By Alex Tolle. 

In an industry built on relationships, the strength of an organization often comes down to the people behind it.

At the Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA), there is a focus on connection that shows up in how the team operates day to day. Leading the organization is Sasha Demyan, who has served as executive director for more than a decade. Her tenure reflects not just consistency, but growth, helping guide MBCEA through evolving industry needs while expanding its programs and partnerships. Recognition in the Metal Construction News Hall of Fame highlights the impact of that leadership, but just as important is the accessibility she brings to the role.

Another key member of the organization is Britain Graver. Britain is the member services and administrative coordinator, meaning their work focuses on keeping the member experience running smoothly, from managing the website to supporting registrations and day-to-day communication. Alongside Britain, is Ginger Roberti, a newer MBCEA team member who is their administrative assistant. In this role, Ginger serves as a first point of contact for many members, helping ensure questions are answered quickly and the right resources are easy to find.

Britain and Ginger's roles are a great example of how much behind-the-scenes work goes intobuilding a seamless, responsive and valuable membership for people at all levels of the association. And for the industry professionals that interact with the MBCEA, it is people like Sasha, Britain and Ginger, the humans behind the MBCEA, that make a meaningful difference in how members experience the organization. 

It is a prime example of how an association's values extend far beyond its events or program and into the people who make those experiences approachable and worthwhile. When members know who they are talking to and feel supported in those interactions, it turns routine touchpoints into real relationships.

With a longstanding commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement, pursuing AC478 was an opportunity to formalize and validate the standards Sure Steel has built its reputation on.

The Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA) announces that Sure Steel, Inc. headquartered in South Weber, Utah with other offices located in Portland, Oregon; Phoenix, Arizona; Dallas, Texas; Des Moines, Iowa; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Orlando, Florida, servicing clients nationwide and coast to coast, now holds the prestigious AC478 accreditation administered by the International Accreditation Service (IAS). AC478, Accreditation for Metal Building Assemblers Inspection, is a standard to recognize metal building assemblers committed to excellence.

Achieving this accreditation demonstrates that Sure Steel, Inc. has the personnel, organizational skills, vast experience, knowledge, management procedures and commitment to assemble metal buildings in accordance with code, specifications, costs and deadlines.  Requirements for this accreditation include documented management systems, rigorous safety training, quality managers, OSHA training, documented safety plans, site-specific plans and other documentation.

“Congratulations to Sure Steel, Inc. of South Weber, Utah, for successfully achieving AC478 IAS Accreditation, a prestigious recognition that validates the company’s robust commitment to quality systems and a culture of safety. This accomplishment highlights Sure Steel’s ongoing commitment to meeting the highest industry standards and exceeding expectations for clients and partners alike,” said MBCEA president David Leinbach. “Welcome to the growing list of contractors who are committed to excellence.”

With a longstanding commitment to quality, safety and continuous improvement, pursuing AC478 was an opportunity to formalize and validate the standards Sure Steel has built its reputation on.

“AC478 accreditation represents more than compliance; it reflects a culture of quality embedded in how we plan, manufacture and erect metal building systems. At Sure Steel, we view quality as a continuous journey, and pursuing this accreditation challenged us to strengthen our processes, enhance training, and further align our field execution with industry best practices. This recognition affirms the dedication of our teams and demonstrates our commitment to delivering consistent, high-performance results that meet both code requirements and client expectations,” said Micah Stanton, director of quality.

For more information about the IAS AC478 accreditation program visit mbcea.org.  For more information about Sure Steel, Inc., visit suresteel.com.

By The Coffee Shops. 

General Manager Tony Bouquot highlights record membership, sustainability efforts and upcoming resources for architects. 

The Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) marked its 70th anniversary in 2026, celebrating record membership, leadership transitions and a series of new projects aimed at advancing the metal building industry. General Manager Tony Bouquot delivered a comprehensive update to members, reflecting on the organization's growth and ongoing initiatives. 

"This is our 70th anniversary," Tony noted. "Seventy years ago, in 1956, 13 building manufacturers got together and formed the MBMA." By the end of 2025, the association had reached a new high with 44 building system manufacturer members and 77 associate members. 

Welcoming a new engineering and research director 

A significant leadership change took place at the close of 2025, as longtime Director of Engineering Research Dr. Lee Shoemaker retired after 32 years. "The good news is we have plenty of time and found a great replacement for him, Mr. J.P. Garden, John Paul Garden, who joined us at the beginning of 2025."  

Tony also highlighted MBMA’s involvement in the code development process. "Last year at this conference, I talked about the ICC hearings... this year, here we are and it's another code year. It's actually happening right now in Hartford, Connecticut," he said, referring to ongoing efforts to represent industry interests during code hearings for the 2027 edition. 

Education and outreach remain a priority for MBMA 

Tony pointed to continuing education unit (CEU) courses and "lunch and learn" sessions designed to inform architects about metal buildings. "This year, we actually have one new course... and another course that's going to be approved, probably by the end of June," he said, adding that these resources will be available to both MBMA and MBCEA members. 

He also celebrated the success of MBMA’s video series, "Travels with Tony," which recently featured the Advent Health Sports Park — winner of last year’s Building of the Year Award. "We have a video series where we spotlight buildings that we think are cool," he said. "So, if you have not seen this video, it is on our YouTube channel, and I would encourage you to watch it." 

New initiatives include insulation and sustainability, plus a new book 

Looking ahead, MBMA is working on several new projects. One, which is focused on roof insulation, examines whether filling the entire roof cavity provides benefits beyond code requirements. "Stay tuned. We should have information to report back on that one when we get together next year," Tony said. 

Sustainability is another area of emphasis. While previous studies concentrated on the energy used in manufacturing, Tony explained that MBMA is now assessing the recyclability and circularity of steel at the end of a building’s life. "We think that we have a pretty good story to tell in the metal building industry, because of the recyclability and the circularity of steel," he said. "Every bit of steel that you see in this building can go back and become new steel in another building or whatever steel product they want to use it in." 

To further support architects, MBMA is compiling a reference book, set for release later this year. The project, in collaboration with Amazon Books, will combine the popular architectural folio series with additional materials. "We think that this one is actually going to be much more of interest to the mass market," Tony said. 

Concluding his remarks, Tony reaffirmed MBMA’s commitment to supporting members and the industry at large. He invites continued collaboration and engagement, sharing, "We are always available and welcome invitations to help out with any of your events.” 

MCS Influencer Robert Tiffin says a proper framework for documented training is essential because quality buildings still start with quality people.

Editor's note: The following is the transcript of a live interview with Robert Tiffin of Silvercote. You can Read the interview below, Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording.

Hi, I'm Robert Tiffin with Silvercoat and past president of the MBCEA. The IS, MBCEA and AC 478 are doing something our industry has needed for a long time: turning experience into a system instead of a guessing game. For years, a lot of knowledge in metal building construction lived in the heads of a few seasoned GCs and superintendents. Some were delivered between a job side trailer and a pickup tailgate. Valuable? Absolutely. Sustainable? Nope, not exactly.

AC 478 changes that. It creates a framework for documented training, safety, quality control and accountability, so newer crews are not just told what to do, but actually trained how and why to do it correctly. And with evolving energy codes, more sophisticated building envelopes, labor shortages and tighter schedules, our industry cannot afford, "Well, we've always done it this way," anymore.

That's where the steps in the AC 478, providing education, mentorship, training resources and a pathway for companies that want to raise the bar instead of simply just clearing it. The end result? Safer projects, better consistency, stronger craftsmanship and a workforce that is prepared for where the industry is going, not where it was so many years ago. Because at the end of the day, quality buildings still start with quality people.

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. 

We’re excited to introduce the new MBCEA Job Board — built to connect metal building professionals, contractors, and erectors with the skilled talent they need to grow and succeed. Whether you're hiring in the field, in the office, or at the leadership level, this new platform is designed specifically for the metal building industry.

👉 Visit the MBCEA Job Board here: https://jobs.mbcea.org/  

1. Click sign in on the top right
2. Click sign in as member - Red Button
3. If you're not signed into MBCEA.org yet, it will prompt you to sign in
4. Once signed in, you should land in your account dashboard         

Along with the launch, we’re also introducing a dedicated resource to support you. His name is Jack Fardo, and he's your MBCEA Job Board Partner. He's here to help you:

• Post roles quickly and effectively
• Choose the best job posting options
• Maximize visibility to the right candidates
• Answer any questions along the way

To celebrate the launch, we’re offering: 20% OFF all job postings through the end of May 2026!

Discount Code: mbcea_20off

If you're planning to hire — now or in the coming months — this is the perfect time to take advantage of the new platform and added support. 

Don’t hesitate to reach out!