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Our network with design and construction professionals is paying dividends recently with more requests for IMI to be included on design teams for projects. Most notably (and recently), we were asked to help develop scope and advise on qualification criteria for the upcoming stone and masonry restoration at the Ben Franklin and Walt Whitman bridges. While our nonprofit status limits our risk and participation on such teams, we seek ways to influence projects to increase work hours and promote the use of signatory contractors through referrals and emphasizing the importance of IMI specification language. Expectedly, we are seeing more IMI Specifications on more emerging project documents.
IMI’s specification language can be a difference maker for signatory contractors when quality work is prioritized with the design team and/or owners. These specifications range from requiring a qualified contractor who is engaged in a registered apprentice program, to specific craft skills such as flashing, grouting & reinforcement, tile, or historic preservation. The true value of the specification and associated training is when we all buy-in and cross-promote. It’s good for signatory contractors to see these requirements!
One of the primary ways IMI promotes our materials on projects is through education programs we offer architects and engineers. It’s just as important to keep you informed on the information we share with the design community. We can schedule a presentation with your firm if you are interested in learning more about any of these programs:
- Tips for Detailing Masonry Assemblies
- Designing and Detailing Durable Masonry Walls
- Flashing and Moisture Control
- Masonry Movement Joints
- Designing, Detailing, and Constructing Rainscreen Walls
- Tips for Optimizing Masonry
- Grouting Reinforced Masonry Structures
- What Non-Engineers Need to Know About Structural Masonry
Recently, IMI has started to combine our craftworker training programs with design professional education: combining both disciplines in an interactive hands-on session with applicable product manufacturers and representatives. These are fantastic networking opportunities for contractors, craftworkers, design professionals, manufacturers, and other union or political representatives who are present on the training room floor. We also encourage you to seek out and participate in any upcoming craftworker training programs - Flashing Upgrade Training and Grouting & Reinforcing Masonry Upgrade Training are our most popular.
One of the most satisfying parts of IMI’s role is directly serving signatory contractors who call and need support. Please continue to reach out for technical assistance in codes & standards, tolerances, preconstruction, mockup review, bid document/construction document & detail review, jobsite troubleshooting, or anything else you need to help you become more profitable. We are here for you!
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