The Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) is an industry association that promotes the design and construction of metal building systems within the low-rise, non-residential building marketplace. Since its origination in 1956, MBMA has worked to promote the common interests of its member companies. It also provides the leadership needed to undertake research programs with the goals of improving the quality and efficiency of metal building systems, and advancing the technology used to produce them.
Even through the current economic downturn, MBMA continues to invest in research, working with universities and other organizations, to continue to enhance metal building technology, says Phil Raimondo, MBMA chair. For instance, current projects include efforts to evaluate fire ratings of new roof and wall systems for metal buildings, says Lee Shoemaker, director of research and engineering.
Another MBMA initiative underway is an accreditation program for metal building manufacturers, says Charles Praeger, MBMA assistant general manager. This accreditation program gives building code officials assurance that manufacturers of metal building systems have undergone a stringent third party review of their operations. MBMA is working with International Accreditation Services, a non-profit corporation and one of the leading accreditation bodies in the world to implement the program. 
How Metal Buildings Can Offer Cost, Energy and Environmental Savings
About the Metal Building Manufacturers Association
