Below is information and attachments on AIA and PE accredited Programs offered which reference The Steel-Wich Telescopic Rebar Positioner as well as methods of use in masonry from Mr Keith F. Lashway, P.E. – Director of Industry Development and Technical Services for the International Masonry Institute.
My colleague in the masonry industry, Brad Dressler asked me to send out some information on what IMI offers as well as information on technical seminars that we bring to the design community.
 
Before joining IMI 5 years ago, I had extensive experience in building design and restoration with over 25 years with numerous A/E and Engineering firms in the Buffalo area (Wendel Engineers) as well as here in the Capital District (C.T. Male and Associates and Clough Harbour and Associates).  
 
As an IMI Regional Director, I routinely meet with architects and engineers to help out with masonry design.  I also attend pre-construction meetings on behalf of the mason contractor to make sure all the masonry is build correctly and inspection checklist items are closely adhered to.
 
As stated in the IMI outreach attachment above, IMI services are free.  We are here to train, educate and to provide up to date information to designers and contractors so that they can produce high quality buildings using state-of-the-art techniques and the newest advances in masonry construction.

The IMI is a strategic alliance between the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC) and their signatory contractors to promote quality masonry construction. We can provide free technical, design and construction information for all trowel trade crafts and materials including brick, CMU, stone, marble, tile, terrazzo, concrete, restoration, AAC, panelized wall systems, ornamental precast and other products. These materials are strong, durable, mold-resistant, fire-resistant and are easily maintained, thus making them cost-effective construction systems.
Masonry construction can also assist in obtaining up to 52 points toward LEED accreditation.
There have also been significant changes to the load carrying capacity of CMU and the result is greatly improved structural capacity; and the ability to design buildings up to 15 stories safely and without the need for a structural steel or reinforced concrete frame.
I hope you will consider using masonry on your project. I look forward to hearing from you soon to discuss how our experienced Team of architects, engineers, contractors and other industry experts can assist you. I can be reached anytime at 518-956-3466 or by email to klashway@imiweb.org.

In the meantime, I invite you to visit our website at www.imiweb.org to learn more about us and the services we offer.
 
Please feel free to contact me.  I am available to help out with your next project.
 
Sincerely,
 
Keith F. Lashway, P.E.
Director of Market Development and Technical Services
International Masonry Institute

19 Spruce Street
Clifton Park, NY 12065
Phone: 518 956-3466
1-800-IMI-0988