Glazier Certification on the Horizon

Kensington Glass Arts, Inc. Participates in Beta Testing AGMT Certification

Now in the beta phase, the Architectural Glass & Metal Technician (AGMT) Certification Program recently asked KGa’s top glaziers to take the written exam and provide insights from the field to improve the knowledge base and technical accuracy of the exam. The AGMT certification is being developed by AMS (Administrative Management System, Inc.) a 3rd party compliance testing and certification leader in the glass and fenestration industry. A certification of this breed does not currently exist and will provide “validation that an experienced AGMT has the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform work in a manner that will minimize defects and failures.” (AGMT-Architectural Glass and Metal Technician Program) Minimizing construction defects and failures will provide peace of mind and ensures clients are getting the best possible product.

The certification’s main goal is to provide an independent assessment of the knowledge, skills and abilities of the experienced glazier tech in a variety of topics applicable to glazing. The program began to take shape in 2017 when AMS distributed a survey to the 27-member steering committee asking them to rank, by importance, over 60 knowledge and ability terms that are common to the glazing industry. The program scope specifically states that it is not considered a training program but is specifically designed for experienced glazier technicians. By consulting with the steering committee, AMS was able to drill down into which topics are most important and applicable to the knowledge base of an experienced glazier, and because of the survey, the AGMT written and physical examination covers a total of 30 topics of expertise. Categorized into seven main topics, the glazier body of knowledge includes: glazing theory, tools of the trade, construction documents & layout, glass & panels, systems, sealants & gaskets and, quality control/failure prevention. The written and practical exams will draw directly from these seven major topics and drill down further into more specific topics like applied glazing related math and proper installation.

“We strongly support the initiative for more training, testing and qualifying of glazing technicians in all facets of the glazing industry” explains Jim Rathbone, KGa’s Senior Vice President. Jim has been an active participant on the Physical Testing Steering Committee and comments that this certification is “completely in line with KGa’s other initiatives; including our support and membership with NACC, our movement towards ISO certification, and the continued development of new approaches to quality workmanship and innovative products.” The AGMT Certification will present, yet another opportunity for KGa’s teams to ensure and achieve that clients continue to receive high-quality work. This “forward thinking approach can easily separate KGa from the crowd” states Jim, who goes on to say, “participation in the AGMT is an important part of that process.” Read more about the AGMT Certification by visiting the official website: www.agmtprogram.com or check out the video below: