January 15, 2026

Strong Builds Start Here: Construction Materials Testing That Powers Quality Assurance

With economic fluctuations, industry changes, and rising construction costs, the quality assurance of construction materials is more important than ever. Through diligent procedures, Construction Materials Testing (CMT) verifies that materials meet the specified requirements, ensuring the safety and durability of the project.

Without quality materials testing, projects miss critical “checkpoints” that either confirm construction can move forward or identify issues that may be present within the material, which must be resolved before proceeding.

Synergizing Field and Laboratory Testing

Both field testing and laboratory testing can be critical checkpoints throughout the project’s construction. Although not all materials require testing in both the field and laboratory, when paired together, they offer a comprehensive perspective on the materials’ makeup.

Field testing enables teams to analyze specific components of the material, such as the temperature or air content of concrete.

Lab testing allows materials to be tested in a controlled environment. This can include tests such as concrete compression and soil sieve analysis.

Both allow engineers to ensure the material they designed for the project is completed according to plan. Wherever necessary, combining field and laboratory testing verifies that the materials are acceptable from every angle.

The Hybrid Technicians Powering Stronger Quality Assurance

CMT teams that adopt a hybrid approach and overlap field and laboratory materials testing technicians have stronger quality assurance. Technicians who learn procedures in both the field and the laboratory develop a more comprehensive understanding of the requirements, precision needed, and how each process interacts with the others.

Additionally, CMT teams with hybrid technicians can better manage workloads, ensuring professionals stay on site until the job is completed. Technicians can be reorganized to support large CMT projects as they require additional hands or testing, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of testing and maintaining project progress.

At Metro Consulting Associates (MCA), Materials Testing Lab Manager Eli Martin is a prime example of this. With extensive experience in both the field and the laboratory, Eli can effectively leverage his dynamic skill set throughout the entire testing process. For example, when working in the laboratory, he can identify if a material sample is not representative of the site and request resampling before proceeding with the rest of the testing, thereby avoiding the waste of time and money.

How MCA Balances Scale and Service

Combining his passion for materials testing with experience in both the field and the laboratory, Eli embodies what it means to be a true partner throughout the construction process. His role extends far beyond quality assurance and risk mitigation, providing actionable advice and confident commitment to each project. Working within MCA’s AASHTO-accredited laboratory, Eli ensures that each testing procedure is completed to the highest industry standards.

That’s why MCA is your just-right partner for your next construction project. We’ve invested in mastering our CMT skills, becoming prequalified through the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), and certified professionals through the Michigan Concrete Association and the American Concrete Institute. We take pride in delivering trustworthy guidance, responsive professionals, and reliable solutions on every project.