AISC Certification FAQ: What You Need to Know

What Is AISC Certification And Why Does It Matter?

AISC certification is a powerful signal to contractors, public agencies, and general contractors that your steel fabrication or erection business meets rigorous quality standards. Whether you’re a small shop or a national operation, getting listed on the official AISC certified fabricators list or AISC certified erectors list can be the difference between winning and losing major bids.

If you’ve ever wondered what is AISC certification or whether your company needs it, here’s your answer: it’s a third-party quality credential issued by the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC). It proves your processes, documentation, and controls are fully compliant with the AISC Quality Certification Program. Many DOTs, municipalities, and GCs require it just to prequalify.

At SteelAudit, we’re not just consultants—we’re former auditors. We help companies implement real-world systems that match every line of the AISC certification requirements, tailored to your actual shop floor operations. No filler, no generic templates, no wasted time.

Need to Get AISC Certified?

Whether you’re trying to land on the AISC certified shop list, maintain your AISC certification, or simply learn how to get AISC certified, we provide a step-by-step path:

• Build your quality manual or upgrade your existing one
• Create controlled procedures, logs, records, and training documentation
• Navigate the AISC application process and prepare for your audit
• Correct any past audit issues and prevent future nonconformances

We work with AISC certified fabricators, steel erectors, and hybrid companies needing both scopes. From first-time applicants to firms renewing after a lapse, we make sure your system not only passes—but performs.

Want to learn more about what it takes? Start with the frequently asked questions below.

AISC Certification FAQ

How do I know if AISC certification is the right fit for my company?

• If your projects involve public works, DOT contracts, or large-scale commercial builds, AISC certification is no longer optional, it’s a prequalifier. If you’re hearing “Are you certified?” more often, it’s time.

What happens during an AISC audit?

• AISC auditors review your quality manual, job records, inspection logs, and training documentation. They also visit your facility to observe your processes in action. The audit isn’t a walkthrough, it’s a compliance deep dive.

Is there a difference between QMS templates and custom systems?

• Yes. Templates are one-size-fits-none. SteelAudit builds tailored systems that fit your operation and match AISC expectations, no filler, just exactly what you need to pass.

Can I keep my current processes and still become certified?

• Often yes, but you must document and control them properly. SteelAudit maps your real world workflows into an AISC-compliant system. no need to reinvent how you do business, just make it verifiable.

What documentation do I need to become AISC certified?

• You’ll need a compliant quality manual, training logs, job documentation, inspection reports, corrective action logs, internal audits, and more. We provide all of it, tailored to your shop and your scope.

What types of companies use SteelAudit?

• We work with structural steel fabricators, miscellaneous metals shops, highway component producers, and steel erectors. From one-man operations to multi-state builders. if you need AISC certification, we can help.

What is the most common reason companies fail AISC audits?

• Lack of implementation. Many companies copy manuals without applying them. We make sure you’re actually using your system, not just filing it in a binder. That’s why our pass rate is exceptional.

Do you help with renewal audits or scope expansions?

• Yes. SteelAudit helps certified firms maintain compliance, respond to CARs, expand scope, or re-certify after lapses.We keep your QMS sharp and audit-ready, year after year.

How do I prepare for AISC certification without slowing production?

• You don’t have to shut down to get certified. Our AISC certification prep integrates with your current operations, minimizing disruption while meeting every requirement.

Is AISC certification required for public infrastructure jobs?

• Yes. Most DOTs and municipal projects now require bidders to hold AISC certification. It acts as proof of a qualified quality management system and is often non-negotiable.

What’s the difference between AISC Erector and Fabricator certification?

• AISC Erector Certification focuses on field installation and safety controls, while Fabricator Certification verifies your shop’s processes, documentation, and weld quality. Some firms need both.

Does the AISC certification process vary by company size?

• The standard is the same, but the implementation is scaled. A one-person shop can pass just like a 200-employee operation—as long as you meet the core AISC certification criteria.

Can I pass my AISC renewal audit with minimal updates?

• Unlikely. AISC reviews implementation, not just documents. SteelAudit offers quick-turn renewal prep to close gaps, resolve CARs, and retain your certification status.

Will getting AISC certified help me win more jobs?

• Yes. AISC certification is often listed as a bid requirement. Even when it’s not, it signals quality and credibility to project owners, engineers, and prime contractors.