This issue comes to you at the end of Q2 2023. In many ways, it is hard for me to write this. The lingering winter weather seemed to transform into May in an instant. Likewise, the market reversed the radical break that was induced last September, and companies are reporting more aggressive activity across the continent. In May, leaders from numerous Association member firms gathered for the Best Practice Group town hall to hear the latest economic interview with our partner, ITR Economics—everyone came away with a mix of confidence and the need for patience, along with some great examples of local and regional leading indicators useful for planning the next six months.

Concrete Facts this month is once again built with attention on broad application. Pay particular attention to the article on “Out of Plumb,” as this article has significantly influenced recent technical inquiries from members and the public alike. While the quality of concrete work will always be scrutinized, fairly or nefariously, one of this Association’s greatest strengths is the technical acumen to defend and affirm common construction issues. The article “Knowledge Management Is a Member-Only Benefit” attends to similar concepts but with a focus on why association members who engage in networking and meeting activities, despite the risks of stepping away from usual business, continually receive more value than ever imagined. Coming out of the latest energizing event, Executive Retreat Spring 2023, the takeaway for that vast majority not involved is: “find a way—you won’t be disappointed.” I am also appreciative for the thought leadership in “Want A Change in Performance,” the latest in a series intended to define or redefine your hiring process. Finally, the interview by CFA staff member Skye Kelley with emerging leader Amanda Kurt is an inspiring article that investigates the opportunities that arise when thoughtful mentors launch a passionate next generation. These articles, coupled with awareness pieces on what the Association has been up to lately, offer each of you a chance to be inspired to aspire. Whether you are a member organization that has taken a hiatus over the recent years since the pandemic or a concrete tradesperson searching for just the right tool to take your business somewhere, we offer proof of the value of intentional networking in a way that we hope brings aspiration, not complacency.

The vision is now fully set for #CFACON23 in San Antonio. You have each received a comprehensive promotion for this event—an event that will bring together four strong keynote speakers and powerful discussion topics for those of you strictly looking for the educational value. Many will be excited to be in one of the finest and less-frequently traveled destinations in the U.S. Others will be drawn to spending quality time hunting for a new edge, a new product, a new system. Everyone who makes their way to San Antonio will return understanding just why it is that knowledge is not only power but also the special sauce to membership. What are you holding out for?