The Steel Joist Institute, a nonprofit organization of active joist manufacturers and other individuals and entities connected to the industry, was founded in 1928 to address the lack of uniform joist standards within the industry. In addition to setting standards and developing regulations for the steel joist industry, the Institute invests thousands of dollars in ongoing research and offers a complete library of training and research aids. The Institute also holds continuing education seminars, provides technical information and promotes the use of steel joists through a national communications program.