By Trenton Baty, Membership & Marketing Director 

The Concrete Foundations Association (CFA) started the year on a high note with a successful presence at World of Concrete (WOC), our first major event under AOE’s new management. Our booth was a focal point of activity, providing an opportunity to reconnect with long-standing members while also welcoming new faces into our community. Engaging conversations and valuable networking helped strengthen industry relationships and expand CFA’s reach. 

Life in the CFA booth was nothing short of exciting. From the minute the doors opened there was a constant buzz of conversation. It was a welcoming space where we had the chance to introduce new people to what CFA is all about—our mission, resources, advocacy and the strong network we offer to foundation professionals. Many conversations stemmed from our booth having one of the few seating areas in the convention hall! Meeting new members and engaging with industry peers reinforced the strength of our community, and discussions about industry challenges and innovations sparked valuable conversations that will help shape the future of CFA. 

Special thanks are needed to all the Board Members that stepped into the booth throughout the week. The first two days were the busiest, especially Tuesday, as our Executive Director was teaching one of our certification and education courses. This, too, had a strong turnout and was a big success continuing our education opportunities at WOC.  

Key highlights of the week were the CFA National Associations Council Meeting and the CFA Board Meeting, both of which emphasized our commitment to collaboration, strategic planning, and continued industry leadership. However, one of the most memorable moments was Foundation Contractors’ Night at The Strat. The event was an overwhelming success, nearly beating our attendance records from previous years. This night didn’t just have some of the best food and views in Las Vegas, but the event served as a great introduction to CFA for many. Several guests in attendance were eager to join our Association after the conversations and relationships formed there. This special night not only reinforced the strong sense of community within CFA but also served as the perfect kickoff to our 50th-anniversary celebrations, setting the tone for an exciting year ahead. 

Overall, World of Concrete 2025 was not just a successful event for CFA but was also a great entry into the Association for me. From a professional standpoint, it was inspiring to witness the strength of our community, engage in impactful conversations, and see firsthand how our association continues to drive the industry forward. The connections made and the insights gained from members, partners, and peers will undoubtedly shape our efforts in the year ahead. Personally, it was a reminder of why I’m so excited to be part of the CFA team—the camaraderie, the shared experiences and the collective drive to support one another’s success. The energy, excitement and meaningful connections from this event have left me motivated and optimistic about the future of CFA and the incredible community we continue to build together.