SEAA honors key contributors advancing steel erection standards

by Christopher Brinckerhoff | 19 August 2024 6:00 am

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Two board members were recognized for years of service during the Steel Erectors Association of America’s (SEAA) 2024 Convention and Trade Show in Glendale, Ariz. David Deem, founder and president at Deem Structural Services LLC, based in Longview, Texas, received the William Davis Service Award, and Chris Legnon, vice president of technology at Cooper Steel Fabricators Inc., based in Nashville, Tenn., was named SEAA’s Person of the Year.

The association’s highest honor, the William Davis Service Award, recognizes Deem for his career and membership in SEAA for more than 20 years. Deem was president at SEAA twice, from 2004 to 2006 and 2022 to 2024. Throughout his tenure, Deem contributed to committees and initiatives to improve industry standards and safety.

Drew Heron, vice president of field operations at Deem Structural Services, says, “[Deem] has always been an innovator within the industry, even from his days as an ironworker. His focus on safety, quality, and integrity has set a high standard, reflecting the values celebrated by the William Davis Service Award. It’s an honor to work alongside [Deem] at Deem Structural Services and on SEAA’s board of directors. I strive to uphold his high standards daily. [Deem] is not just a mentor and colleague, but also a friend.”

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Legnon has been a SEAA member for 15 years and a board member since 2015. Legnon is part of the leadership as chairman of SEAA’s marketing committee, enhancing outreach and engagement for the association.

At Cooper Steel, Legnon has driven initiatives to improve safety, training, and industry standards, pioneering advancements in steel fabrication techniques for efficiency and sustainability. Legnon has also participated in SEAA’s events, including the Steel Connections peer group.

Glen Pisani, chairman of the strategic planning committee at SEAA, says, “[Legnon] has been a huge asset to SEAA over the years. His calm, positive influence, and analytical way of thinking have made such a difference when working on projects for the association. He looks at things from all angles to help find the right solution to a problem. That skill, paired with this passion for the industry, makes him invaluable.”

R. Pete Gum, executive director at SEAA, says, “[Deem] and [Legnon] embody innovation, dedication, and service, which are crucial for the steel erection industry’s prosperity. Their achievements will inspire current and future steel professionals.”

Source URL: https://www.metalconstructionnews.com/news/industry-news/seaa-steel/

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