Jeff Henry is CEO and co-founder (with COO Jason Sherrill) of CEI Materials, Manchester, Mich. Established in 2008, the company is a nationwide fabricator of architectural cladding systems and components with plants in Michigan and Utah, and is capable of fabricating more than 1 million square feet of architectural panel systems per year. CEI has more than 90 employees.
MA sits down with Jeff Henry, CEO of CEI Materials to talk about the latest in the fabrication world
The Measurement Systems Laboratory at NASA Langley has a façade that utilizes a variety of exterior cladding materials, including single-skin metal panels and metal louvers, all of which were fabricated by CEI Materials.
Photo: Scott Wertz
Metal Architecture: With all the people involved in designing, fabricating and installing wall systems, what is your responsibility for ensuring a system meets code?
Jeff Henry: First and foremost, we need to be educated on the latest code and testing requirements. Secondly, we need to ensure our systems and design meet those requirements. The final step is to share our knowledge with the designers and installers.
MA: What are the biggest design trends you are seeing in building enclosures related to metal building components? We’re seeing lots of customization, bold colors and perforation among others.
Henry: We see a lot more plate, perforation and complex geometry. There is also a big push toward unitizing wall assemblies to reduce on-site work and condense schedules.
CEI Materials fabricated nearly 200,000 square feet of metal composite material using 3A Composites’ ALUCOBOND PLUS for the Elm, a 30-story high-rise in downtown Bethesda, Md.
Photo: CEI Materials
MA: Your company fabricates MCM panels, HPL panels and aluminum plate. How do you work with architects to deliver the right panel for the right project?
Henry: We have developed a series of AIA presentations to help educate architects on the advantages of each system and surface we offer. We really have no product bias, so it’s about finding the right product for the project team. We consider budget, performance, sustainability and aesthetics.
MA: The MCM industry has faced major concerns about the efficacy of the product in light of a number of high-profile overseas fires. What’s the most important thing architects in North America need to know about this issue?
Henry: These issues do not exist in North America due to our code requirements and stringent fire testing. In the United States we have the NFPA 285 test and in Canada it is the ULC -S134 test. These tests are not individual component tests; they are assembly tests, so it’s important for architects to understand how to properly design and specify a compliant wall assembly. For anyone with questions, I recommend they contact one of the premium certified fabricators in their area.
MA: What kind of supply chain issues are you facing? How are you handling them?
Henry: You name it. We are struggling with everything from metal, paint, lumber, freight and labor.
As far as the second part of that question goes, unfortunately, we have seen price increases and extended lead times. While we have done our best to absorb these impacts for our customers, it’s becoming difficult to continue to do so. We have leveraged our buying power to hedge price increases, and we spend an extensive amount of time planning and strategizing to reduce lead times.
MA: How is the skilled labor shortage affecting your segment of the industry?
Henry: At CEI, we are blessed with a great team and we have been able to retain workers. However, these labor shortages have impacted our business in other areas due to shortages by our suppliers and subcontractors. All of this results in a higher priced finish product.
MA: What are the most challenging types of projects to tackle?
Henry: Projects with scheduling and budget constraints can be challenging. Aside from those, projects with poor plans and specifications can really increase project management costs.
MA: If you had to communicate one message to architects, what would it be?
Henry: Do your homework and consult your local experts early and often to ensure a well written specification that meets code and performance standards. I always like the phrase “Clarity Cuts Cost.”
MA: What do you see are the three major drivers for the future of fabrication?
Henry: Technology, testing and training! To stay relevant in this industry, you must constantly reinvent yourself and invest in your people and products.
MA: Let’s talk technology. Aside from BIM and CAAD, what are the technologies that are driving the fabricating industry in terms of complexity and efficiency? What role do machinery and software integration play into these issues?
Henry: As the AEC community becomes more sophisticated, so must the fabricator. To meet these demands, CEI has doubled down on investing in our people by developing in-house training programs and creating opportunities for growth. We have also developed custom software and worked to automate every function within our operations. The role machinery, software and people play in the future of fabrication cannot be understated.