The All-New Controlled Environment Building Association Certificate
By Carl Morse
Continuing education is a key function in the development of young leaders – allowing them to expand their knowledge base, learn different methodologies and stay current with new and improving technology and industry trends. Engagement in these activities will also, invariably, promote further development of network connections.
A M King’s leadership encourages participation in training and certificate programs from prestigious industry organizations. In fact, our professionals who have earned the Controlled Environment Building Association certificate already see its benefits and have used their expertise to exceed client expectations.
The Backstory
Prior to 2024, there was no specific training for the design and construction of controlled environment buildings. However, the Controlled Environment Building Association (CEBA) (formerly known as IACSC) did hold conferences, which I regularly attended as a young professional. I was drawn to the organization due to its specific focus, enjoying the opportunity to network and build long-lasting relationships with suppliers, subcontractors and other Design-Build experts.
In recent years, I became interested in exploring how design and construction companies in the specialized controlled-temperature niche could set a standard for education and training. In fact, Brian King, Founder and CEO of A M King, served as chairman of IACSC for two terms and had established a foundation for development of a program that would address this need.
Two years ago, I joined other members of CEBA’s Education & Training Committee in developing the CEBA Professional Training and Certificate program. This committee, with the support of the Board, other committees and Global Cold Chain Association (GCCA) staff, created the content, questions, and teaching support to bring this training program to the industry.
The CEBA Professional Training and Certificate Program is the first to focus on industry recognized best practices in design, construction and maintenance of controlled environment buildings.
Through this effort, I was nominated by peers to join the Board of Directors to assist, guide and grow the organization. I’m proud of our work with CEBA and those in our company who have earned this certificate. What follows are highlights about this program – when it was developed, what it covers, who earned it and how it will ultimately benefit our clients.
Controlled Environment Building Association Certificate
When was it developed?
The inaugural CEBA Professional Training and Certificate program pilot class was held in Atlanta last April with 30 CEBA member students and faculty. The full program debuted on Oct. 16 last year and to date 41 have earned the CEBA Professional Certificate nationwide.
What is it?
“This CEBA certificate program is a culmination of many years of discussion, development, industry collaboration and hard work amongst Controlled Environment Building Association (CEBA) Board of Directors and membership,” explained Brian Lynch, Executive Director, CEBA & EVP Business Development GCCA. “A primary focus of the Education & Training Committee is to develop and continuously improve a high value training and testing program in full alignment with CEBA’s strategic priorities of achieving recognition by building future talent, promoting value, and developing industry expertise.”
The CEBA Professional Training and Certificate Program covers construction, maintenance, and management of controlled-environment facilities, focusing on product safety, building design, control systems, and environmental impacts. It incorporates information/concepts/theory from industry professionals who worked collaboratively to develop the curriculum.
Curriculum Blueprint:
- Principles of product safety regulation
- Understanding of building concepts
- Knowledge of controlled environment building control systems and their interdependence
- Knowledge of energy and environmental impacts
To earn the certificate, students engage in a three-day training curriculum based on established industry best practices and taught by recognized industry experts. In the assessment exam, they must demonstrate a thorough understanding of these principles, concepts and key system operations unique to controlled environment facility building, design and system operations. CEBA Professionals are recognized with a certificate and included in the CEBA Professional Certificate Program website directory.
Who earned it?
“This is the gold standard for cold storage training. We covered a variety of topics from food storage, racking, safety, fire protection, electrical, refrigeration, ASRS, building layout, laws and regulations and energy conservation.” — Chase Roten, A M King Project Manager and CEBA Professional
“The CEBA Professional training is an excellent platform to learn (and share) industry knowledge and I think it will really springboard the development of those in our company with 5+ years of cold storage experience.” — Tyler Goodwill, A M King Design Leader and CEBA Professional
How will our clients benefit?
The CEBA certificate program was developed by industry professionals throughout the U.S. and Canada, compiling their expertise into a single comprehensive training/continuing education program. It allows a CEBA Professional to present customers with multiple options to address their facility/project/operational needs. A M King’s professionals who are certified in controlled temperature facilities will be distinguished in our niche markets and will be able to bring these best practices to our clients.
Conclusion
Training and certification opportunities are an investment in our people, showing A M King’s commitment to their professional development and reinforcing our philosophy of continuous improvement. With the participation in the Controlled Environment Building Association certificate program, our next generation leaders will learn and understand key components, theories and strategies for this area of specialization, and they will be better equipped to provide innovative solutions for our clients’ complex, controlled temperature facility challenges.
