Concrete Industry Associations Partner to Form Certification Consortium

“Certification of companies or individuals is a topic found in all segments of the construction market as builders and code departments attempt to establish competency and accountability in construction, “ said James Baty, Technical Director of CFA and TCA. “In the end, it is about assurance and knowing that an industry segment has a commitment opportunity that results in that assurance. CFA determined that a combined message of the importance of certification throughout the concrete industry was the best way to hold the attention and the commitment of the entire industry rather than it being just another certification,” said Baty.

According to, Pat O’Brien, Executive Director of CSDA, their existing company certification program for sawing and drilling contractors is the first of its kind. “Our three-tier audit program provides owners, architects, engineers, general contractors and government officials with a valuable pre-qualification tool to improve the knowledge and skills of cutting contractors and enhance their public image,” said O’Brien. “We have found it very difficult to grow the recognition of our certification program individually. Of even greater importance is the holistic effort the concrete industry, across all technologies and markets, has toward the message of quality through certification. This Consortium then was a natural fit to strengthen the combination of recognition by the design and development industries as well as the commitment to quality throughout the construction industry.”

Certification is also important for the companies that produce architectural precast concrete panels and cast stone products. The APA Plant Certification Program has been a trusted part of the construction community for over 18 years and APA believes it will be served well through the Consortium. “Assuring the quality production and performance of architectural precast products is crucial for not only successful project outcomes but for maintaining the highest quality standards and commitment to safety,” said Fred McGee, Executive Director. “

For more information, please contact Ed Sauter, Executive Director for the Tilt-Up Concrete Association at esauter@tilt-up.org or 319-895-6911.