The International Code Council (ICC) is the governing body for commercial and residential construction in the United States. They are the authors of many standards adopted by local and state governments for building construction. Standards such as the International Building Code, International Residential Code and the International Plumbing Code are just a few of the standards created by the ICC.

Additionally, the ICC is the parent body for several technical certifications such as Building Inspectors, Building Code Officials and Special Inspectors. Because of the highly technical nature of certain construction methods the ICC has developed specific certifications for inspectors intimately involved in those disciplines, they are the Special Inspector (SI) certifications.

There are currently seven Special Inspector certifications. They are the Reinforced Concrete SI, Structural Masonry (SI), Structural Steel & Bolting SI, Prestressed Concrete SI, Soils SI, Spray-Applied Fireproofing SI and the Structural Welding SI. These are all very high-level technical certifications which are highly prized within the industry. The rigor to obtain them is challenging, but exceptionally rewarding. Maintaining them can also be a significant challenge as several hours of continuing education is required from ICC Preferred Providers which have been specifically approved through ICC to provide top tier education to its certification holders.