General Engineering · Engineering Glossary
The Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) requires that iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in federally funded infrastructure projects be produced in the United States. It applies to grants and financial assistance administered through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021.
BABA expanded existing Buy America requirements to new federal program areas, including transportation, water infrastructure, broadband, and other federally assisted projects. For engineering projects on federal facilities or receiving federal funding, the design team and contractor must track product origins and obtain waivers for any non-domestic materials. Waivers are available on a project-specific, product-specific, or categorical basis when domestic products are not available, are not in sufficient quantity, or would be unreasonably costly. BABA compliance is increasingly important for public works projects and government facility engineering. Apex Grid's government project experience includes coordination of Buy America requirements with contractors.
Apex Grid Engineering maintains this glossary as a resource for architects, contractors, developers, and property owners who encounter unfamiliar engineering terminology on their projects.
View All Engineering TermsApex Grid Engineering is licensed in 49 states — every U.S. state except Alaska. Engineering stamping and licensure are confirmed for each project jurisdiction.
Request a Proposal