ECMS Helps Deliver 2026 Metal Architecture Design Awards Winner

East Coast Metal Systems (ECMS) is proud to have contributed to the University of South Carolina Upstate Library renovation and expansion, recently recognized as the 2026 Metal Architecture Design Awards – Metal Composite Materials Category Winner. The award celebrates excellence in the design and application of metal composite materials, recognizing projects that demonstrate innovation, craftsmanship, and outstanding architectural achievement.

Designed by Moseley and installed by Tidewater Building Group, the USC Upstate Library project showcases how collaboration between the design team, contractor, and specialty fabricator can transform a building with a high-performance, visually striking façade.

For the project, ECMS fabricated and supplied 4,400 square feet of its EC-200 Dry Joint MCM System™ using Alucobond® 4mm FR Aluminum Composite Material (ACM). The system included 381 precision-fabricated panels—309 in New Age Dark Bronze and 72 in Oyster—creating a clean, contemporary exterior that complements the library’s modern architecture while delivering exceptional durability and long-term performance.

The EC-200 Dry Joint MCM System™ was selected for its ability to achieve crisp architectural lines, installation efficiency, and lasting weather resistance. Through precision fabrication and close coordination with the project team, ECMS helped bring the architect’s vision to life while supporting the project’s performance and sustainability objectives.

“We’re honored to have contributed to a project that has been recognized for excellence in architectural metal design,” said Kyle Sowinski, Senior Project Manager at East Coast Metal Systems. “This award reflects the strength of collaboration between the architect, contractor, and fabrication team, and we’re proud that our EC-200 system helped achieve the project’s vision.”

This recognition highlights ECMS’s commitment to delivering innovative façade solutions that combine aesthetic excellence with long-term performance. From higher education facilities to healthcare, commercial, and government buildings, ECMS partners with architects and contractors to fabricate architectural metal panel systems that bring ambitious designs to life.

Congratulations to Moseley, Tidewater Building Group, and the entire project team on this outstanding achievement. ECMS is proud to have played a role in delivering an award-winning building envelope that will serve the USC Upstate campus for years to come.

Berkeley Hospital Diagnostics & ER – Health Pavilion at Sawmill Centre

East Coast Metal Systems partnered with Choate Construction Company, The Keith Corporation, McMillan Pazdan Smith, and installer Tidewater Building Group to deliver a striking exterior façade for this commercial development in Point Hope, South Carolina. The project featured 11,599 square feet of cladding utilizing 977 panels of the EC‑200 Dry Joint MCM System™, creating a clean, modern aesthetic while supporting efficient installation and long-term performance. The completed façade enhances the building’s visual appeal and reflects the project team’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, durability, and design excellence.

MUSC Health Clements Ferry Pavilion (Point Hope MOB)

East Coast Metal Systems partnered with Choate Construction Company, The Keith Corporation, McMillan Pazdan Smith, and installer Tidewater Building Group to deliver a striking exterior façade for this commercial development in Point Hope, South Carolina. The project featured 11,599 square feet of cladding utilizing 977 panels of the EC‑200 Dry Joint MCM System™, creating a clean, modern aesthetic while supporting efficient installation and long-term performance. The completed façade enhances the building’s visual appeal and reflects the project team’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, durability, and design excellence.

The Truluck Center at 1014 St. Andrews

The USC Upstate Library project highlights East Coast Metal System’s ability to deliver high-performance, design-forward façade solutions through collaboration. The design was led by Moseley and installed by Tidewater Building Group. Our team provided the EC‑200 Dry Joint MCM System™ using Alucobond® 4mm FR ACM across 4,400 sq. ft., consisting of 309 panels in New Age Dark Bronze and 72 panels in Oyster. The finished exterior balances durability, constructability, and a clean modern aesthetic while supporting sustainability goals with measurable performance benefits. These outcomes contributed to the project being recognized by the Green Building Initiative as the 2025 Runner Up for Project of the Year.

ECMS Helps Prepare Future Trades Professionals

WHEELING, W.Va. — East Coast Metal Systems’ (ECMS) Madison Dobkin, Human Resources Coordinator, recently participated in the Heavy Metal Summer Program, where she provided interview training and career-readiness guidance to local students interested in pursuing careers in the sheet metal and construction trades.

Hosted by Sheet Metal Workers Local 33 in Wheeling, the Heavy Metal Summer Program gives students hands-on exposure to the skilled trades while introducing them to the many career opportunities available within the industry. Through project-based learning, mentorship, and interaction with industry professionals, participants gain valuable insight into rewarding careers that offer long-term growth and stability.

As part of the program, Dobkin led a session focused on interview preparation, helping students develop the skills and confidence needed to make a strong first impression with potential employers. Her presentation covered interview best practices, professional communication, resume tips, and strategies for showcasing strengths and transferable skills.

“At East Coast Metal Systems, we believe investing in the next generation is essential to the future of our industry,” said Dobkin. “It was rewarding to connect with these students, share practical advice, and help them feel more prepared as they begin exploring career opportunities in the trades.”

ECMS has long supported workforce development initiatives that introduce young people to the skilled trades and create pathways to meaningful careers. By participating in programs such as Heavy Metal Summer, the company continues its commitment to strengthening the industry and supporting the communities it serves.

The Heavy Metal Summer Experience is a growing North American initiative designed to introduce students to careers in the mechanical and construction trades through hands-on learning and direct engagement with industry professionals.

About East Coast Metal Systems

East Coast Metal Systems, Inc. (ECMS) is a premier provider of full-service fabrication for engineered architectural metal and exterior envelope systems.

University of South Carolina Upstate Library

The USC Upstate Library project highlights East Coast Metal System’s ability to deliver high-performance, design-forward façade solutions through collaboration. The design was led by Moseley and installed by Tidewater Building Group. Our team provided the EC‑200 Dry Joint MCM System™ using Alucobond® 4mm FR ACM across 4,400 sq. ft., consisting of 309 panels in New Age Dark Bronze and 72 panels in Oyster. The finished exterior balances durability, constructability, and a clean modern aesthetic while supporting sustainability goals with measurable performance benefits.

These outcomes contributed to the project being recognized by the Green Building Initiative as the 2025 Runner Up for Project of the Year. and as the 2026 Metal Architecture Design Awards, Metal Composite Materials Category Winner.

Bar Italia

East Coast Metal Systems delivered a sleek, modern façade for Bar Italia at Easton Town Center in Columbus, OH, using its EC-100 Route & Return (wet joint) system. The project included 20 custom-fabricated 4mm FR core panels with a two-coat PVDF black finish, covering 461 net square feet. Despite the smaller scope, precision fabrication and installation were critical, resulting in a clean, high-end exterior that enhances the restaurant’s upscale presence while ensuring long-term durability and performance.