This spring marks the completion of twenty years serving as a staff member for the Concrete Foundations Association.  Having received an invitation in early 2000 to consider a change of career focus, I could never have imagined the diverse world that I would soon move into, one where every day is marked with a different focus, direction, and opportunity.  

June 1, 2001, was my official start date.  In a blink of an eye, my world changed as did the world around all of us. September 11 of that year forever changed travel, organization, communication and even relationships.  As I quickly learned, the framework history of this association, built from its start in 1974, was suddenly at risk.  However, like so many threads within this country, the network of the CFA refused to give in to such risk and resolved to strengthen and become a more effective fabric.

Some of the greatest moments were on the horizon (now in the rearview mirror).  The largest convention gatherings took place in Mt. Hood, Oregon (2002); Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (2003); and the Wisconsin Dells (2006).  These were landmark events on the capabilities and impact of the CFA at that time.  Delivered through these years were cutting edge research in Cold Weather and industry-shaping initiatives like the Concrete Homes Council, the CFA Standard, and the delivery of the first residential concrete code, ACI 332.  A largely overlooked concrete culture, relegated to the earliest of sub-contracts before the actual house construction began, was strengthened beyond relevant to influential.

The momentum reached its peak, but not due to a cycle of energy. Rather, it was suddenly stripped of its resources and attention as the housing bubble burst and the Great Recession was ushered in.  Despite the reality that was the most difficult business climate in eighty years, the vitality of CFA carried on and a focus switched to advocacy.  Together we faced greater project- by-project scrutiny, due in large part to the lower volume, and strengthened our commitment to thought leadership, validating knowledge with certification.

In the years since recovery, good times have turned to great. Companies that have taken the challenge to become and remain in membership have uncovered unparalleled resources and taken full advantage of the convenience technology has afforded.  No other time has taught more than the last fifteen months as the pandemic completely reshaped access to each other and challenged the very safety of the workforce while business remained in great demand.

Today, we stand stronger, more nimble, proven, and confident.  We face present turmoil such as material shortages and price escalation, strengthened government regulations, and employment (or unemployment) complacency with grace and patience.  We rely on each other and this Association for the same measure of resourcefulness and a renewed passion for knowledge.  This continues to be a most amazing and incredible opportunity, and I very much look forward to what the next decade will reveal.