Mike Muir and Avery Dittmer have earned the new Wood Framing Special Inspector certification from the WACEL, placing them among the first individuals anywhere to receive the credential.
Both Mike and Avery are members of SK&A’s Repair + Restoration Division. Mike serves as Assistant QA/QC Manager, while Avery is a Structural Engineer supporting the division’s work investigating existing structures and verifying construction compliance in the field.
The WACEL Wood Framing Special Inspector certification examination evaluates an inspector’s ability to interpret construction drawings and specifications, review project documentation, and verify that wood framing materials, connections, and installation comply with applicable codes and industry standards.
The certification was introduced in response to evolving Special Inspections requirements in the International Code Council’s International Building Code. While certifications have long existed for inspection of structural materials such as reinforced concrete, masonry, structural steel, and fireproofing, there had not previously been a widely recognized credential focused specifically on inspection of light-framed (“stick-built”) wood construction
The certification program was developed through WACEL’s standing committee structure, which supports technician certification programs and other initiatives aimed at improving the quality and consistency of construction materials testing and special inspection services. Charles T. Mitchell, SK&A’s Director of Testing & Inspection, served on the committee that helped develop the program, contributing technical references, learning objectives, exam questions, and supporting drawings used in the certification process.
The new credential establishes a recognized standard for inspectors evaluating wood framing systems—one of the most widely used structural systems in building construction—and helps ensure that light-framed wood structures are constructed in accordance with approved plans, specifications, and applicable codes.
