The most compelling evidence of an individual’s influence lies in their dedication and service to advancing the industry. This sentiment strongly resonates with the Concrete Foundations Association as it reflects on this year’s nominations and professional awards.

Set against the historic backdrop of Deadwood, S.D., CFACON25 provided a one-of-a-kind setting for attendees to connect, learn and immerse themselves in the rich history and charm of the old West. Participants were treated to a wealth of valuable insights, including inspiring thought leadership, innovative approaches to integrating technology and for many, an unmatched opportunity to foster and expand business relationships in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

The Opening Gala Celebration was a highlight of the event, where CFA’s executive director, James Baty, took center stage to announce the much-anticipated winners of the Association’s project and professional awards. These selections, determined by the voting membership, showcased the exceptional talent and innovation within the industry. A detailed look at the award-winning projects can be found here.

What truly elevated the evening, however, was the recognition of leadership—those members who have gone above and beyond to make a lasting impact on the Association and the industry as a whole. Their contributions serve as a testament to the power of commitment and collaboration in shaping the future of concrete foundations.

Golden Tie Membership Development Award

This year, the Concrete Foundations Association proudly celebrated two exceptional leaders in membership development with the prestigious Golden Tie Awards. As one of the Association’s most anticipated annual honors, the Golden Tie Award recognizes companies or individuals who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to fostering membership growth and strengthening the CFA’s network year after year.

Western Forms, Inc.

Kansas City, Missouri

Western Forms, Inc. earned the National Associate Golden Tie Award for an impressive third consecutive year, a testament to their unwavering commitment to the CFA community. Through consistent outreach, active promotion of the Association’s mission and a dedication to building meaningful connections across the industry, Western Forms has set a notable benchmark for associate engagement and impact.

Accepting their 3rd consecutive Golden Tie Award during the Awards Gala are, from left to right, Jim Aylward, Tom Carkhuff, Evan Resetar, Ron Ward, Chris Ward and Brian Ward on behalf of Western Forms, Inc.

Russ Talpey

Talpey Construction LLC

Old Saybrook, Connecticut

On the contractor side, Russ Talpey of Talpey Construction made history as the inaugural recipient of the Contractor Golden Tie Award. Talpey’s enthusiasm for expanding the CFA network, encouraging peer involvement and championing the value of membership has made a significant and lasting impact in just the first year of this new category.

Together, these honorees exemplify the true spirit of the Golden Tie Award: driving membership growth, fostering engagement and promoting collaboration across the CFA community. Their contributions inspire others to strengthen the association and advance the industry as a whole.

Russ Talpey and family pose with two Projects of the Year Awards received by Talpey Construction LLC during the Awards Gala.

Kick-Start Member of the Year

Jeff Dumas Concrete Construction

West Jordan, Utah

From the time Jeff Dumas Concrete Construction joined the Concrete Foundations Association in 2024, they have wasted no time making the most of their membership. From the very beginning, they leaned in with enthusiasm, attending multiple CFA events, engaging with fellow contractors and industry partners and even taking the initiative to host an Executive Retreat. Dumas and his team have fully embraced the wealth of resources, connections and opportunities the Association offers, using them to strengthen their business and contribute to the broader industry. Their proactive involvement has quickly made them a valued member of the CFA community.

The Kick-Starter Membership Award, first introduced in 2015, recognizes members in their first three years of membership who intentionally dive into the CFA network, leveraging interaction, support and shared expertise to advance the Association’s goals. Jeff Dumas Concrete Construction stood out this year for their initiative-taking approach, eagerness to collaborate and genuine interest in contributing to industry conversations. Their participation has gone beyond simply attending events—they’ve actively sought to build meaningful relationships, share insights and learn from others, embodying the collaborative spirit that defines the CFA.

Their commitment to building relationships and tapping into the CFA community reflects the true essence of this award, proving that early and intentional involvement can create lasting value for both the company and the Association. Jeff Dumas Concrete Construction exemplifies the type of contractor member the CFA seeks—one that is passionate about learning from others, willing to share their own experiences and dedicated to fostering growth within the industry. Their efforts serve as a model for new members, showcasing how active engagement can lead to both personal and professional success while strengthening the CFA as a whole.

Jeff Dumas and his son, pictured here with Western Forms Regional Director Jim Aylward, accept the 2025 Kick-Start Membership Award on behalf of Jeff Dumas Concrete Construction.

National Associate of the Year

Jimmy Ingman

Progressive Foam Technologies

Beach City, Ohio

Since becoming a member of the CFA in 2019, Jimmy Ingman of Progressive Foam Technologies has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the Association’s mission and its members. Over the years, Ingman has become a cornerstone of the CFA community, consistently contributing his time, expertise and enthusiasm to advance the organization and the industry as a whole. His peers, who deeply value his collaborative spirit and proactive approach, nominated him for this prestigious recognition. Ingman has continually gone beyond traditional participation, sharing his knowledge, fostering strong relationships and championing initiatives that drive industry growth and innovation.

The Associate of the Year award is a distinguished honor that celebrates National Associate members who exemplify exceptional commitment to both the CFA and the broader concrete foundations industry. This year, Ingman earned this accolade through his remarkable engagement in CFA events, his willingness to support contractors with in-depth product knowledge and practical solutions and his ability to cultivate meaningful connections among members. Whether it’s through his active involvement in educational programs, his contributions to industry discussions or his efforts to bridge gaps between members, Ingman has proven himself to be an invaluable asset to the CFA community.

Ingman’s professionalism, boundless energy and steadfast dedication embody the very best qualities of CFA’s National Associate membership. His efforts not only enhance the Association’s initiatives but also inspire others to contribute to the collective success of the industry. As the recipient of the 2025 Associate of the Year award, Ingman stands as a shining example of what it means to be a leader, collaborator and advocate within the CFA. This well-deserved recognition highlights his significant impact and reaffirms his role as a driving force in the continued growth and success of the concrete foundations industry.

Jimmy Ingman of Progressive Foam Technologies accepts the Associate of the Year Award from CFA Director James Baty.

Innovative Contractor of the Year

Erik Rusin & Katie Walker, Reti, Inc.

Elbert, Colorado

The spirit behind the Innovative Contractor award was to create recognition for the way contractors innovate both formally and informally. Over the years, award recipients have brought forward concepts that have given rise to marketable products, others remain unique to their operations and get shared among friends. This year’s award recognized a shining example of hard work from leaders of a Colorado-based CFA Contractor member to become an influential software platform.

Although Retti, Inc. officially joined the CFA in 2025, Erik Rusin and Katie Walker have been long-time contributors to the Association, dedicating their efforts to developing innovative solutions that help contractors work leaner, smarter and with far less stress. Their commitment to advancing the industry and their hands-on approach to problem-solving earned them the prestigious Most Innovative Contractor award this year. This recognition highlights their ability to think outside the box and create tools that address real-world challenges faced by contractors in the field.

Retti is a purpose-built software platform designed specifically for concrete contractors, bringing scheduling, logistics and real-time communication into one place. It helps streamline crew scheduling, coordinate trade partners, manage inventory and optimize formwork deliveries, while giving full visibility into job status and progress so projects run smoother, faster and with less stress. This groundbreaking tool epitomizes practical innovation, simplifying workflows while maintaining the high standards of quality that the industry demands. By streamlining processes and improving efficiency, Rusin and Walker’s solution empowers contractors to focus on what they do best: delivering exceptional results. What sets Rusin and Walker apart is not just their creativity but also their willingness to share their knowledge and solutions with the CFA community. Their problem-solving mindset and collaborative spirit have inspired others to embrace new ways of thinking, proving that even a time-tested industry like poured wall construction can evolve in meaningful and impactful ways. Their work demonstrates that innovation doesn’t have to be complex to be transformative—it just needs to address the core needs of the people it serves.

Rusin and Walker’s contributions have left a lasting impression on the CFA, showcasing how forward-thinking ideas can drive progress and elevate the entire industry. Their recognition as the Most Innovative Contractor is not only well-deserved but also a testament to their vision for a smarter, more efficient future in cast-in-place concrete construction.

Erik Rusin and Katie Walker of Retti, Inc. accept the Innovative Contractor of the Year Award from CFA Director James Baty.

Contractor of the Year

Custom Concrete

Westfield, Indiana

A CFA member since 1986, Custom Concrete Inc. has established itself as a trusted leader in the poured wall industry for nearly forty years. This family-owned business has built its reputation on providing employees, customers, partners and the broader community with a solid foundation for quality—whether that means offering rewarding career opportunities, delivering exceptional projects or contributing to an enhanced quality of life.

Custom Concrete’s commitment to excellence extends far beyond its construction sites. The company has become synonymous with superior craftsmanship, cutting-edge innovation, and an unwavering dedication to helping others succeed in the industry. Their collaborative approach has made them a cornerstone of the poured wall community, earning them recognition that extends throughout the Midwest and beyond.

This year, Custom Concrete was nominated for the prestigious Contractor of the Year award—a distinction that recognizes their work reaching far beyond their own projects and immediate market area. The company has consistently demonstrated leadership through knowledge sharing and supporting best practices that elevate the entire poured wall sector.

The Contractor of the Year award celebrates contractors who masterfully combine technical skill, exceptional service and visionary leadership to advance poured wall construction as a whole. Custom Concrete embodies these qualities through its daily operations and industry involvement. Their consistent leadership, unwavering focus on quality, and deep commitment to excellence reflect the highest standards of CFA membership. These qualities, combined with their dedication to advancing the industry and supporting their peers, make Custom Concrete Inc. a deserving recipient of this year’s Contractor of the Year award—a recognition that celebrates not just their business success, but their lasting impact on the poured wall construction industry.

On behalf of Custom Concrete, Jason Ells, president, accepts the Contractor of the Year Award from CFA Director James Baty.

2025 Robert D. Sawyer Distinguished Service Award

Ron Ward

Western Forms, Inc.

Elbert, Colorado

In honoring Ron Ward this year, the Concrete Foundations Association recognizes not just his professional achievements, but the legacy of service he continues to build, one that reflects the spirit and dedication of Bob Sawyer himself.

As one of the original members of the CFA and the current CEO of Western Forms, Ward has dedicated decades to advancing the concrete foundations industry. His visionary leadership, generosity with his time and unwavering commitment to supporting contractors embody the very essence of the Robert D. Sawyer Distinguished Service Award, the Association’s most prestigious recognition. Ward’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the CFA and the industry, making him a true champion of poured wall construction.

Named in honor of the CFA’s first Executive Director, this award celebrates individuals whose depth of involvement and lasting contributions have shaped both the Association and the broader industry. Ward has consistently exemplified these qualities, serving as a leader, mentor and advocate for innovation and collaboration. His efforts have not only advanced the technical and operational aspects of the industry but have also strengthened the sense of community among contractors, suppliers and industry partners. Throughout his career, Ward has been a driving force behind initiatives that promote growth, education and excellence in poured wall construction. His ability to inspire others, share his expertise and foster meaningful connections has elevated the CFA’s mission and created opportunities for countless professionals to thrive. Whether mentoring emerging leaders, championing innovative technologies or advocating for industry standards, Ward’s impact is both profound and far-reaching.

In honoring Ward this year, the CFA celebrates not just his remarkable professional achievements but also the enduring legacy of service he continues to build. His dedication reflects the spirit and commitment of Bob Sawyer himself, serving as a reminder of the values that define the CFA. Ward’s contributions will undoubtedly inspire future generations to carry forward the torch of innovation, collaboration and excellence in the concrete foundations industry.

Ron Ward of Western Forms, Inc. accepts the 2025 Robert D. Sawyer Distinguished Service Award at the Awards Gala