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As technology evolves, so does the manufacturing industry. Advanced manufacturing is no longer just about assembly lines—it's about innovation, precision, and high-tech solutions. For those seeking a hands-on career with strong growth potential, apprenticeships in this field provide a direct path to success. By blending classroom instruction with practical experience, these programs ensure that apprentices gain the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a dynamic and competitive industry. Companies like American Structures & Design contribute to this initiative by offering hands-on training and mentorship, helping apprentices transition into skilled professionals. Why Choose an Apprenticeship in Advanced Manufacturing? Earn While You Learn - Unlike traditional education paths, apprenticeships allow you to earn a wage while acquiring valuable skills. Hands-on Training  – Get real-world experience by working with cutting-edge technology and industry experts. Job Security & Growth  – The demand for manufacturing professionals continues to grow, offering stability and career advancement. No Student Debt  – Apprenticeships often provide a cost-effective alternative to college degrees, allowing you to start your career without financial burdens. Industries Benefiting from Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships Advanced manufacturing plays a crucial role in various sectors, including: Aerospace Automotive Robotics and Automation Energy and Sustainability How to Get Started? If you’re interested in an apprenticeship in advanced manufacturing, here are some steps to take: Research available apprenticeship programs in your area. Connect with local manufacturing companies and workforce development organizations. Apply for an apprenticeship that aligns with your interests and career goals. Commit to learning and growing within the industry. Final Thoughts Advanced manufacturing apprenticeships open doors to rewarding careers, equipping individuals with in-demand skills and long-term job prospects. If you’re looking for a hands-on, financially stable, and future-proof career, exploring an apprenticeship could be the perfect fit. Companies like American Structures & Design are playing a crucial role in supporting apprentices through real-world training, ensuring a skilled workforce for the future.

30 YEARS OF TRUSTED ALUMINUM AND STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS 2025 is a big year for us at American Structures & Design—we're celebrating 30 years in business! It's not just about the years; it's about the relationships, projects, and hard work that got us here. OUR STORY Since 1995, we've been dedicated to providing top-quality aluminum and stainless steel solutions for commercial projects. What started as a small team with a big dream has become a trusted name in the industry. Whether it’s aluminum balconies, railings, sunshades, canopies, or stainless steel cable we've worked hard to bring ideas to life and help our clients succeed. CELEBRATING OUR ACHIEVEMENTS We’ve reached this remarkable milestone thanks to: Our Team: Our employees' passion and expertise drive everything we do. Our Clients: Your trust and collaboration have fueled our growth and inspired us to innovate. Our Partners: We value the strong relationships we’ve built with suppliers, contractors, and architects who share our commitment to excellence. LOOKING AHEAD We’re excited about what’s next! To keep up with the changing industry, we’ll keep pushing for better designs, smarter solutions, and more sustainable options. Thanks for being part of our journey. We can’t wait to see what the next 30 years bring! FEATURED PRODUCT: MECHANICAL SCREENS Our mechanical screens offer a sleek and effective way to conceal unsightly HVAC units, rooftop equipment, and other mechanical systems, ensuring your projects maintain a clean and professional look. Built with durable aluminum materials, our screens are customizable to fit any design need and provide low-cost maintenance. FEATURED PRODUCT: COMMERCIAL SUNSHADES Our commercial sunshades are designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce glare, and enhance the appearance of any commercial building. Available in various designs and finishes, they are a perfect blend of style and practicality.

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, it's the perfect time to gear up for success at your upcoming trade shows. We’re here to help you shine with a range of resources tailored to professional installers. Here’s what we have ready for you: Comprehensive Brochures: Showcase our latest products, solutions, and services to engage potential customers. Designed for impact, these brochures make communicating your expertise easy and effective. Sample Kits: Provide hands-on access to our top-selling items, letting prospects experience the quality and functionality of our products firsthand. Display Kits: Create eye-catching displays that highlight your installations and draw more visitors to your booth. These sleek, practical kits are made to help you stand out. PROJECT SPOTLIGHT Project: Private Residence Railing - San Jose, CA Key Features: TR400 Aluminum Railing System: Engineered and designed to withstand the elements while maintaining its modern look. TR100 Round Top Railing System: The rounded top design provides a comfortable grip and timeless aesthetic, suitable for residential or commercial settings. Secondary Grab Rail: Designed to enhance safety and accessibility, offering a sturdy and secure handhold. Cable Infill: Sleek and minimalist, the cable infill option ensures unobstructed views while maintaining safety and strength.

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to prioritize materials that combine durability, efficiency, and style. For balcony frames, aluminum outshines steel with its rust resistance, lightweight design, and low-maintenance appeal. Unlike steel, aluminum offers architects the flexibility to achieve sleek, modern designs while reducing upkeep and costs. Traditional Steel AS&D Aluminum When comparing aluminum vs steel balconies, aluminum comes out on top. Here’s why: Weight: Aluminum is lightweight, requires fewer engineering resources, and simplifies installation, contributing to cost savings. Maintenance: Aluminum is low-maintenance, with no need for frequent painting. Steel requires regular upkeep to maintain its appearance and integrity. Aesthetics: Aluminum offers sleek, modern finishes, while steel leans toward a heavier, industrial look. Rust Resistance: Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant, while steel requires treatments to prevent rust. SEE IT IN 3D & AR We’re thrilled to introduce a new feature for 2025—interactable 3D models with augmented reality (AR) functionality for all our products! Now, you can explore and show our balcony designs in a new way. Rotate and zoom in on every angle, and even visualize them in your project spaces using augmented reality. This immersive experience helps architects make precise, confident decisions by bringing designs to life like never before. PROJECT SPOTLIGHT Project: Modera Raleigh Hills - Beaverton, OR Key Features: TR200 Aluminum Railing System: Engineered and designed to withstand the elements while maintaining its modern look. Aluminum Balcony System: Crafted with durability in mind, engineered to last while showcasing a contemporary streamlined design.

TR200 Series aluminum railing system When it comes to choosing deck railings, the material you select plays a critical role in both the look and long-term performance of your outdoor space. Two of the most popular options are aluminum railings and steel railings. While both have their advantages, aluminum has become the preferred choice for homeowners and businesses thanks to its durability, sleek design, and low maintenance. In this blog, we’ll compare aluminum vs steel railings to help you make an informed decision. Why Your Deck Railing Material Matters Deck railings serve two key purposes: safety and style . They protect your family and guests while enhancing the overall look of your deck. However, not all railing materials are created equal. Steel has been a common choice for years due to its strength, but it comes with drawbacks such as weight and rust concerns. On the other hand, aluminum railings  have quickly gained popularity as a modern, durable, and hassle-free solution . Aluminum Railings: The Benefits Aluminum railings offer a variety of advantages that make them the superior choice for most deck projects: Anodized Aluminum Railing System 1. Lightweight Yet Strong Aluminum is significantly lighter than steel while still offering impressive strength. This makes it easier to handle and install—perfect for both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. 2. Corrosion-Resistant and Weatherproof Unlike steel, aluminum does not rust. It’s naturally corrosion-resistant, meaning it can withstand harsh weather conditions without deteriorating. Whether you live in a humid climate, near the coast, or in snowy regions, aluminum railings offer unmatched longevity. 3. Low Maintenance Steel railings require frequent upkeep to prevent rust, including painting and treatment. Aluminum railings, however, are virtually maintenance-free. Once installed, they retain their finish and structural integrity for years with little effort. 4. Modern, Sleek Aesthetics Aluminum railings are available in a variety of modern designs and finishes, including powder-coated options that resist fading and wear. Their clean lines and versatile appearance make them perfect for contemporary decks and outdoor spaces. 5. Cost-Effective in the Long Run While aluminum railings may have a slightly higher upfront cost, their durability and low maintenance requirements save you money over time. Steel Railings: The Drawbacks Steel railings have long been known for their strength, but they come with significant downsides: Traditional Steel Railing System 1. Heavy and Difficult to Install Steel is much heavier than aluminum, making it harder to transport and install. This can increase labor costs and make DIY projects impractical. 2. Prone to Rust and Corrosion While galvanized or stainless steel can resist rust to some extent, steel still requires regular maintenance. Without proper upkeep—like repainting and sealing—steel railings will rust, especially in wet or coastal environments. 3. High Maintenance Costs To keep steel railings in good condition, you’ll need to invest time and money into sanding, priming, and repainting them regularly. 4. Traditional Appearance While some homeowners prefer the classic look of steel, it lacks the sleek, modern design versatility of aluminum. Why Aluminum Railings Are the Better Choice For most homeowners and businesses, aluminum railings clearly come out on top. Here’s why: Durability: Aluminum is weather-resistant, rustproof, and built to last. Ease of Installation: Lightweight aluminum makes installation quick and hassle-free. Low Maintenance: No sanding, repainting, or costly repairs. Modern Look: Aluminum railings complement a variety of architectural styles with their sleek, clean lines. Long-Term Savings: While steel requires ongoing maintenance costs, aluminum offers better value over time. If you’re looking for a railing solution that combines style, durability, and cost-effectiveness, aluminum is the clear winner.

HOLIDAY CLOSURES We would like to inform you that American Structures & Design will be closed for the holidays on December 24th, 25th and January 1st. During this time, our team will not be available to address inquiries or provide support. We encourage our valued clients and partners to plan accordingly and reach out to us with any urgent needs prior to the holiday closure. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding. PRODUCT INVENTORY As we approach the crucial dates of our product inventory counts on December 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th, we want to emphasize the importance of planning ahead to ensure that your project timelines remain seamless. These inventory dates are a vital part of our dedication to maintaining the highest quality standards in our manufacturing processes. During this time no rush orders will be allowed but our staff will still be here to help with any phone calls and emails. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year from the American Structures family!

We’re excited to announce the winners of our recent photo contest showcasing stunning patio covers and railings! Thank you to everyone who participated and shared their beautiful projects. Railing Winner: Rick's Custom Fencing & Decking Congratulations to Rick's Custom Fencing & Decking , whose exceptional railing design caught our eye! Their commitment to quality and innovative design truly sets their work apart. We can't wait to feature Rick’s project profile, where you’ll get an in-depth look at the creativity and detail that went into this winning railing. Railing Winner (2nd/3rd place): McMahan Homes, LLC We are excited to recognize McMahan Homes, LLC for their stunning deck railing photos. Their creativity and attention to detail have earned them a well-deserved spot among the top contenders! Congratulations to McMahan Homes, LLC for their impressive work, showcasing how beautiful railings can enhance any outdoor space. Patio Cover Winner: Sound Patio Solutions A big round of applause for Sound Patio Solutions , the winner in the patio cover category! The magnificent design enhances outdoor living areas and seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings. We’re thrilled to announce that we’ll be showcasing a project profile highlighting their outstanding work soon! Stay Tuned! Both winners will be featured in detailed project profiles, giving you a closer look at their designs, inspiration, and tips for creating your own stunning outdoor spaces. Keep an eye on our blog for these exciting features! Thank you again to all participants. We can’t wait to share more inspiring projects with you!

HAND-SWAGED CABLE HARDWARE Builder grade is the most economical solution designed for experienced contractors who prefer the speed and ease of hand swaging in the field. The simple design is based on a tensioning stud, washer, hex nut, and acorn nut. Then using the appropriate tools, the cable is field cut, and the hardware is hand-swaged. To utilize this system effectively, contractors must employ the appropriate tools to cut the cable to the desired length in the field. This field-cutting capability is particularly advantageous, as it allows for on-site adjustments that can accommodate various project specifications and requirements. PROJECT SPOTLIGHT Project: Private Residence - Richland, WA Key Features: TR200 Aluminum Railing System : Engineered and designed to withstand the elements while maintaining its modern look. Cable Infill : Easy maintenance, increased safety and more visibility.

ALUMINUM DECKING AS&D Aluminum is designed to interlock and create a watertight seal, directing water to run off the edges rather than seeping through any gaps. This makes it an ideal solution for decks located above patios, walkways, or entryways, ensuring the area below remains dry and protected. Giving you a maintenance-free deck for many years. Order Part# BA-BD AS&D aluminum vented decking is designed for commercial projects that require strict adherence to fire codes. This decking solution offers the perfect balance of strength and code compliance, ensuring safety without compromising durability. Order Part# BA-BD-GRLC PROJECT SPOTLIGHT Project: Ryan Resilience Lab - Norfolk, VA Key Features: TR200 Aluminum Railing System: Engineered and Designed to withstand the elements while maintaining its sleek, modern look. Cable Rail: Unobstructed views, easy maintenance, and top-of-the-line stainless steel. Design: Our railing system integrates perfectly with the curved deck, offering seamless transitions and clear views of the waterfront. Project: Flat Pan Patio Cover with TR200 Railing: Key Features: Patio Cover: Featuring our Flat Pan roof system, with built in gutters this system that adds a clean and useful design that both protects the deck and adds to the homes appearance. Built to Last: The TR200 guardrail system with Picket infill adds safety, style, and a maintenance-free system for the homeowner.

INSULATED PATIO COVER ROOF PANEL WITH BEAM Our insulated roof system, integrated with an internal aluminum fan beam allows for seamless installation of lighting, fans, and other accessories. Enhanced Functionality: Built-in fan beam for easy and secure mounting. Ideal Application: Perfect for enhancing outdoor spaces under patio covers. This useful panel is designed to simplify and elevate your insulated patio cover projects and meets all structural snow and wind loads. Order Part # PC-IPFB PROJECT SPOTLIGHT Project: V-Pan Patio Cover with TR200 Railing Key Features: Patio Cover: Featuring our Flat Pan roof system, with built in gutters this system that adds a clean and useful design that both protects the deck and adds to the home's appearance. Built to Last: The TR200 guardrail system with Picket infill adds safety, style, and a maintenance-free system for the homeowner. Project: Ryan Resilience Lab - Norfolk, VA Key Features: TR200 Aluminum Railing System: Engineered and Designed to withstand the elements while maintaining its sleek, modern look. Cable Rail: Unobstructed views, easy maintenance, and top-of-the-line stainless steel. Design: Our railing system integrates perfectly with the curved deck, offering seamless transitions and clear views of the waterfront.

COMMERCIAL ESTIMATING TEAM At AS&D, we take pride in delivering exceptional customer service, with our dedicated commercial estimating team standing ready to respond to your inquiries within 24 hours. We recognize that timely communication is not just a courtesy; it's a cornerstone of success in commercial projects. PROJECT SPOTLIGHT Project: Madrone Passive House - Seattle, WA Key Features: TR200 Aluminum Railing System : Engineered and designed to withstand the elements while maintaining its modern look. Aluminum Balcony System : Crafted with durability in mind, engineered to last while showcasing a contemporary streamlined design. Aluminum Canopy System : Custom-made color powder coated to enhance the building's appeal.

How to Participate and Submit Capture stunning photos of your patio cover or railing installations Submit: 2 options Email your 2024 photos to your AS&D Sales Rep Provide your name, email, phone, job name, and/or sales order number in your email Upload using our contact form Contest Rules Photos must be of AS&D patio cover and/or railing installations. Note: all parts and components must be from AS&D Participants must provide their name, email, phone, and job site location (city/state) and/or sales order receipt number , to be considered for a winning submission Winning photos will be posted on the AS&D website in our Project section with credit to your company Submission Deadline: August 31, 2024 (11:59 PM PST) Contest Details Winners will be chosen by a popular vote from AS&D team members. The project photos receiving the highest number of votes will be declared the winners. Winning photos will be chosen on September 11, 2024 and announced September 12, 2024. Prizes will be distributed by contacting the participating company to determine their preferred method of receiving the prize, either as an individual or corporate gift. Prizes will be awarded as a single gift card chosen by the participant or participant entity. By submitting job photos, you grant AS&D permission to use them in all marketing materials, with or without credit to your company. These photos may be edited, published, or distributed by AS&D. Participant and corporate entity waive any rights to inspect or approve the final product. We look forward to receiving your submissions!