Forman Ford Becomes First Iowa Glazing Contractor to Earn North American Contractor Certification

Joe Kalisz, director of fabrication and engineering at Forman Ford.

Forman Ford, a Midwest glazing contractor headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has become the first in the state to earn North American Contractor Certification (NACC). NACC is an ANSI-accredited program that requires architectural glass and metal contractors to adopt standard best practices not only for glazing quality and construction safety, but also for business operations.

“Initially, I was interested in finding a resource that could separate quality contractors from the masses,” says Kurk Rogers, Forman Ford executive vice president. “As I experienced the process, I realized NACC would make us a much better business.”

Rogers and Forman Ford director of fabrication and engineering Joe Kalisz partnered with NACC administrators over six months to undergo a series of rigorous assessments and implement standard written documents including a quality management system (QMS). The company’s certification became effective December 15, 2021.

“We didn’t have any preconceived notions,” explained Kalisz. “The assessment opened our eyes to where we needed to document, to be better at holding people accountable, and to implement checks and balances. Quality needs to be everybody’s mindset. And we’re already more quality conscious. There’s a tremendous amount of pride throughout our organization after becoming certified.”

Forman Ford leadership say the NACC process encouraged them to implement new quality control methods in both the manufacturing facility and the field. To maintain certification, the company will be reevaluated annually to confirm its business and glazing practices remain at the high standards NACC requires.

Glazing contractors can earn the NACC credential in one or more of six operational categories based on the company’s focus of work. Forman Ford earned NACC in all six categories: interior and entry systems, building envelope low-rise, building envelope high-rise, active glass, guardrails, and service work.

“NACC recognizes contractors that utilize industry best practices for installation, giving peace of mind to building owners, design professionals, general contractors, and insurers,” says Jeff Dalaba, NACC program administrator. “NACC reduces stakeholder risk by providing verified evidence of a contractor’s adherence to the highest industry standards and best business practices.”

The NACC program launched in 2015. Since then, it has 47 certified contractors now located in 16 states and Canada. At least 20 contractors are already undergoing the process to become certified in 2022.