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By: Macie Murie, associate editor of Connector magazine, and associate client manager for Mighty Mo Media Partners If there was one takeaway from the 2026 SEAA Convention & Trade Show, it’s this: the association continues to grow, and so does the energy behind it. From packed education sessions and a busy trade show floor to networking events that kept conversations going long after the sessions ended, this year’s convention reflected the momentum happening across SEAA and the steel construction industry as a whole. Attendance was strong with nearly 400 erectors, fabricators, and industry suppliers, but what stood out most was the level of engagement. Education sessions covering workforce development, AI, leadership, safety, project management, cybersecurity, and emerging opportunities like mass timber construction drew great participation and sparked conversations that will carry well beyond the meeting rooms. SEAA also welcomed a strong group of first-time attendees this year. The First Timers Happy Hour gave new members and convention participants a chance to connect early, meet SEAA leadership, and start building relationships before the week officially kicked off. The trade show, represented by 58 exhibiting companies, remained a centerpiece of the week, with strong traffic at the kick-off Welcome Reception. Returning exhibitors were joined by a number of new companies showcasing equipment, technology, software, safety solutions, training resources, and services supporting steel construction. The conversations happening on the show floor reflected where the industry is heading. Outside of the classrooms and trade show, attendees connected during the Pickleball Tournament, George R. Pocock Memorial Golf Tournament, receptions, and evening events held throughout the week. Those moments continue to be a big part of what makes Convention more than just another industry event. The President’s Dinner closed out the week with recognition, celebration, and an important leadership transition. Jack Nix of Shelby Erectors passed the ceremonial Spud Wrench to Chris Legnon of Cooper Steel, who will officially assume the SEAA Presidency in July. The evening included recognition of recipients of the Project of the Year Awards, Safety Excellence Awards, and Craft Training Excellence Awards, highlighting member companies continuing to raise the bar across the association. One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was recognizing the nominees for the SteelStrong Women in Construction initiative. Seeing so many accomplished women from all aspects of the industry gathered together in one room was a powerful reflection of the leadership, talent, and impact women continue to bring to the industry every day. The evening also recognized SEAA’s Trailblazers, honoring members who recruited three or more new association members over the past year. This year’s Trailblazers included Mike Mulsow of FM Steel, Glen Pisani and Steve Hebert of MAS Building & Bridge, and Jack Nix. Nix was additionally recognized as Trailblazer of the Year for the third year in a row, recruiting the highest number of new members during the year. Additional honors included Drew Heron of Deem Structural Services and Jason McElrath of M&P Specialty Insurance, tied for The Eddie Award as SEAA’s Persons of the Year. Carrie Gulajan of Construction Insurance Agency was presented with the William Davis Service Award, one of the association’s highest honors and an award not presented every year, making the recognition especially significant. As the week wrapped up, one thing was clear. SEAA is entering its next chapter with strong momentum, growing participation, and a membership committed to shaping the future of the industry together. Next stop: Concord, North Carolina, in 2027! View the photos from the 2026 Convention & Trade Show below:
2026 George R. Pocock Golf Tournament Tuesday Night Entertainment with Clay Brooker 2026 Convention & Trade Show and Wednesday Welcome Reception 2026 Convention & Trade Show, Big Dave Ball Drop, and Thursday President's Dinner Comments are closed.
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