The Importance of NCCCO and AISC Certifications

Some things are easy and intuitive to operate, and have low stakes if something goes wrong. A crane, on the other hand, is a whole different story. The operation is much more complex, and the stakes much higher, which makes the kind of experience you get from American Aerial Services that much more important. Our NCCCO and AISC training and certification is confirmation of that know-how.

Why Certifications Matter 

The purpose of crane operator certification is threefold. In part, it’s for compliance reasons, since the State of Maine and OSHA both require operators to be trained and certified. It’s for us as well, since our goal is to ensure the safety of our operators, your people and assets, and your project. Just as importantly, it’s for you -- our clients -- who deserve our best, and the peace of mind that comes with that.

What’s Involved in NCCCO Certification 

One of our two key certifications is issued by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). The CCO Mobile Crane Operator certification program is unique in that it isn't a strictly theoretical or academic concern. It was developed by those who actually work in the industry -- trainers, supervisors, manufacturers, techs, and crane operators -- so it's both experiential and continually evolving.

Becoming NCCCO certified requires trainees to be at least 18 years of age, meeting key medical requirements, passing written and practical examinations, following the NCCCO code of ethics, and remaining in compliance with the organization's drug policy (one reason among many that all of our crane operators are drug tested).

What’s Involved in AISC Certification 

As with the NCCCO certification, all American Aerial crane operators are trained and certified by the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC). We take this extra step because AISC certification and training adds another layer of knowledge and accountability, while holding operators and the companies for which they work to a higher standard.

The AISC certification process is rigorous. It begins with the development of quality and safety policies, training in all processes used by steel erectors, and continues through safety system training on everything from fall protection to PPE, lock outs and tag outs, PPE, equipment inspections, and project safety planning. It doesn't stop with the issuance of a certification, since involves reviews of administration, documentation, training, quality management, and on-site performance. Furthermore, compliance is checked annually, and each certification holder is required to set long-term goals for continuous education and quality improvement.

The American Aerial Services Difference 

Any crane company can point to its equipment or its capabilities as a business. At American Aerial Services, we’ve always known that those things are made possible only by our people. We hire the best so we can always give our best, and we’ve got the paperwork to prove it. If you need structural steel erecting in Maine, get in touch for a comprehensive consultation today.