During each meeting of the Board, the president directs an opening discussion around a topic of relevance or importance based on the current context of our businesses.  This is, after all, a gathering of business owners that learns from each other every time we meet.  At our fall Board of Directors meeting, you may not be surprised to read that we discussed the current market. As we went around the room, a common theme surfaced: market slowdown and procuring materials, especially concrete, are currently real problems. Although the topic of conversation itself was not positive, our attitudes and responses were. There was a sense of calmness and hope. Together we were able to bring a confident overtone of “we’ve been here before” and “we can get through this.” For me, this was extremely helpful! I’m grateful to be a part of such a strong group of people. One of the things I appreciate most about the Concrete Foundations Association is that I can always count on people to lend a helping hand.

The CFA is dedicated to helping our members become the best concrete foundation contractors. We have several tools that I hope you are using. For example, we have partnered with ITR Economics to give us industry-specific economic forecasting. We interview them quarterly to ask specific industry questions. They also provided one of our keynote speakers at our most recent convention. If you attended the Boston convention this past summer and heard Connor Lokar, you know their team is a significant resource. Additionally, as a member, you have access to CFA Best Practice groups. These groups meet virtually every month to share thoughts and work on key areas of our business and industry challenges. If you have not engaged with these resources, I could not recommend it enough. 

I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at our winter meeting during the World of Concrete. We have a great venue to talk, network, and grow.  

Best Regards,