ICC Members: The individuals behind codes and safety — Marion Hardy

Code professionals ensure building safety today, for a stronger tomorrow. As the individuals behind modern codes and standards, these professionals are responsible for ensuring the safety and compliance of codes and standards, shaping the safety of the world around us, and serve as the safety foundation for our buildings. They don’t just ensure that buildings are constructed to withstand the stress of everyday use, they are behind the security and stability of every building. They specialize in preventative measures to help communities weather unforeseen natural disasters and ensure that first responders have less to worry about and can do their jobs safely. Code professionals are an essential piece in the building and construction puzzle and are engaged in the building process from the initial building plan to the finished product.

The International Code Council is a member-focused association with over 64,000 members dedicated to developing model codes and standards used in the design, build and compliance process to construct safe, sustainable, affordable and resilient structures. They protect the public through their commitment to building safety; enforce code compliance to empower and educate stakeholders across the built environment to embrace and integrate safety standards in their work; support economic development by making our buildings sturdier, and therefore longer lasting. Their knowledge, skills, and abilities impact every building, in every community.

The Code Council recognizes the importance of continuing to grow awareness of the important work that code professionals do and the impact they have, in the hopes of encouraging aspiring building safety professionals to join in on the building safety movement. In this exclusive feature for the Building Safety Journal, we asked Marion Hardy to share his experience in the industry, highlights of his professional career, and any insights or advice he has concerning the industry and the future of building safety.

Marion Hardy
Architect/President
Hardy and Associates/Architect, PLLC
Biloxi, Mississippi, United States
International Code Council member for 12 years

BSJ: What was the path to your career — how and why did you pursue a profession in building safety?
Hardy: During the summers of my high school years, I worked construction jobs and loved to build things. I also loved to draw buildings. The combination of the two led to me submitting my application to the School of Architecture at Mississippi State University.

BSJ: What three things do you need to be successful in this industry and in your profession?
Hardy: The three things to be successful: 1. listen to your clients, 2. spend your client’s money as if it is your own, and 3. follow through with what you say you are going to do and hold others you employ to the same standard.

BSJ: What role have mentors, advisors or your network played in your career?
Hardy: As an architect, we are constantly learning new things every day about new technology or products. Our mentors are our mistakes that we make and constantly networking will humble you in every way.

BSJ: What led you to become an ICC member?
Hardy: Everyone needs help with the complicated world we live in and work in each day. ICC is a great tool that our firm takes advantage of to help us make sure we interpret codes correctly.

BSJ: Are you involved in any ICC committees or councils? Do you have any ICC certifications?
Hardy: I’m not involved in any ICC committees nor do I have any ICC certifications.

BSJ: How long have you been in the industry?
Hardy: 26 years

BSJ: What major changes have you seen?
Hardy: The major changes are local authorities having jurisdiction adopting the more recent codes and enforcing them.

BSJ: What is one piece of advice that you would give to those starting out in the industry?
Hardy: Pay attention to the details. The details are what will teach you the most. Have the drive to be successful and lead by example.

BSJ: What do you see as most surprising about the work that you do?
Hardy: After 26 years you think you have seen it all, and then a contractor figures out a way to install a drinking fountain upside down.

BSJ: What would you like to do next in your professional/personal life?
Hardy: I would like to design a high-rise building.

BSJ: What do you enjoy doing in your leisure time?
Hardy: I love spending time with my family, working on my farm and hunting.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title would be?
Hardy: High Standards

There’s a world of opportunity in being a member of the International Code Council. Membership provides the tools to get the most out of each workday: from discounts on essential International Codes and other publications to the best prices on top-quality training and ICC certification renewals, Code Council membership helps budgets go further. Exclusive member benefits include code advice from expert technical staff as well as access to member-exclusive news and articles at the Building Safety Journal news portal. Plus, only Code Council members vote in the ICC code development process. An online Career Center allows job postings and searches for new job opportunities — all at no additional charge.

The Code Council offers numerous councils, committees, and resources to help code professionals grow and network with colleagues. Six discipline-specific Membership Councils offer members a place to come together and be a more powerful force in shaping your association, your industry, your career, and your future. Code Development Committees are an instrumental part of the ICC code development process and are responsible for the review and evaluation of code change proposals submitted to the International Codes. Professional Development Committees serve to better align the ICC education programs and certification programs to ensure that quality training is available to meet the needs of all members, customers and certification holders. Finally, the Value of the Code Official toolkit helps members to heighten awareness of the importance of code officials to their communities and to highlight the code official’s role as a helpful advocate for community safety, health and welfare, and economic development.

To learn more about ICC membership, click here, or contact ICC Member Services by email or 888-ICC-SAFE (888-422-7233) ext. 33804.