CFACON24 – The Risks Worth Taking

As your executive director now for the past decade and having participated in your journey since 2001, I have experienced some wonderful examples of this Association taking calculated risks that pay great dividends. In this rich history, planning a summer convention in the remote parts of northwest Oregon was quite challenging. Committing to an extensive research effort to determine the precise behavior of concrete in cold and frozen settings on behalf of an entire industry was a lofty vision. Hosting the first completely virtual convention in a new and engaging platform during COVID, when gathering in person was not possible, was pioneering. Each of these is just a snapshot of the commitment I have seen over and over from this Association’s leadership—commitment to maintaining  an organization that always challenges and supports you.

Hosting this most recent convention offshore was the next big, calculated risk, and I am thrilled at the response received. We gave up keeping track of the number of properties and locations considered for CFACON24, and then Puerto Rico was mentioned. Would members attend? Would we need passports? Would there be an Atlantic storm? These and many more questions were considered, some easy to answer (U.S. Territories don’t require U.S. citizens to have passports) and some that simply required us to accept some uncertainty. In the end, attendance at this convention continued the post-COVID trend of outpacing the preceding year’s event. Even more importantly, the energetic responses we received from surveys prove that this event remains the signature reason #CFAConcretePros are at an advantage in the marketplace—you have each other.

As I reflect on the takeaways from this event, one of my main ones is how valuable networking is. This year we added an entire session devoted to contractors meeting one-on-one for ten-minute conversations. These meetings were electric. Another key takeaway is that you need an opportunity to learn about market changes. The presentation and discussion regarding the largely silent change to Type IL cement confirmed how abruptly this change came for many and how much it matters for most.  Antarctic Mike and Chris Coghlan gave a motivational talk encouraging listeners to face adversity and persevere by clarifying goals—they encouraged us to “let go!” It is never tiring to hear how openly members share and how impactful learning from each other becomes. As presenters, Doug Herbert, Russ Talpey, Nate Salters, Mike Kana, and Jason Ells all proved once more that the heart of CFACON24 is found in the collective wisdom and experience that comes from the risks you each take and your willingness to help others walk paths less traveled.

This July began our journey of celebrating 50 years of the Concrete Foundations Association. How will you do more with the powerful tool of membership?

Taking the Reins

Sean Smith is Vice President for Modern Poured Walls located in Wellington, Ohio.  He became a board member in 2012, beginning his officer track in his second term. A second-generation president of the Concrete Foundations Association, Sean brings his passion for the Association, the relationships he has made, and the powerful influence on his business he has received to now lead.

Being in the position to write this letter to you, our members, was never part of my intention or plan when I said yes to joining the Board of Directors 12 years ago. My involvement in the Association has been one of the most important and impactful decisions I could have made to advance my personal and professional life. Some of the most important relationships I have in my life exist within the CFA. In this Association I have learned from industry leaders, entrepreneurs, technical minds, and marketers, and I have made lifelong friendships . Largely, because I said yes. I would like to challenge each of you to say “yes” to getting involved, “yes” to meeting new people and forging new relationships within our Association, “yes” to serving as leaders on the Board or in task force groups, and “yes!” to joining us at our next CFA gathering. I guarantee that if you say “yes” and engage with others, your personal and professional life will be impacted positively like mine has been and like so many others before me have experienced.

There is no better time to make these relationships and learn from others than at our annual summer convention. CFACON24 didn’t disappoint! We were blessed with an incredible atmosphere in Puerto Rico. The speaker lineup was excellent, and the participation and support from our National Associate members was terrific. One of the highlights for me was the speed dating event with each of them! Let me not forget to acknowledge all our members who took time out of operating their businesses to be part of and create the atmosphere for sharing, learning, and networking. This is what our Association is built upon. If you were unable to make it this year, then say “yes” and make plans for our 50th next year. You will not regret the investment madein yourself and your business to be present for this gathering.

As we look forward to celebrating our 50th anniversary as an Association at CFACON25 in Deadwood, South Dakota, I must look back at our past. I would like to personally thank Jason Ells for his leadership as our past president for the last two years. His vision and efforts as presi

dent will be felt by the Board of Directors for years to come. Additionally, I would like to thank all our current and past board members. Your dedication to the CFA, our industry as a whole, and to your individual craft, has created an atmosphere in our Association that I look forward to being a part of for the next many years.

President

Concrete Foundations Association

50th Anniversary Celebration Begins

The Concrete Foundations Association will reach its 50th year of supporting the cast-in-place concrete contractor in the Spring of 2025. A yearlong effort will celebrate the significance of fifty years of enduring challenging economic cycles, an evolving marketplace, and a host of labor, legal, code, safety, and technology influences.

The year of celebration was kicked off during CFACON24 this past July in Puerto Rico. This first offshore event for the Association saw one of the largest attendances in CFA history. As the convention ended, executive director Baty invited the participants to begin planning now for the 50th anniversary, which will be hosted in Deadwood, South Dakota. More about the significance of CFACON24 is available online and in this publication.

Continuing the celebration, CFA will host executive retreats in Omaha, Nebraska (Oct. 23–25, 2024) and Salt Lake City, Utah (April 2025). These events incorporate the early networking focus found during CFA regional meetings and continue the momentum gained over the last year and a half in Philadelphia, Oklahoma City, and Baltimore. The schedule will include a tour of the Strategic Air Command Museum, a visit to multiple CFA member locations and/or job sites, as well as a chance for members to experience a Board meeting and contribute to the energy and direction of the CFA. However, no matter the schedule, the real highlights of the executive retreat environment are the relationship building, free sharing, and surprising take-aways.

For more information, visit the Events page found at

https://cfaconcretepros.org.

CFA Establishes Preferred Supplier Program

Membership networks generally have a variety of participation and recognition levels based on the interests of individuals and organizations and the services and resources provided. Tiered membership levels, labeled as “sustaining” or given common titles (i.e., gold, silver, diamond, and platinum) typically follow a pay-to-be-recognized system. Instead, during the fiscal year 2023–24, CFA’s Board of Directors, the Membership Task Force, and the National Associates’ Council completed the work to launch the newly branded CFA Preferred Supplier Program follows an engagement model. This program, open to any organization holding a National Associate or Local Supplier membership, tracks the contributions of organizations to the Association and accumulates a score value based on those contributions, rather than on how much money they pay.

“Once an organization achieves a minimum threshold point value, they receive an invitation to upgrade their membership and brand visibility through the Association,” said CFA’s executive director, James Baty. “This is an excellent example of multiple leadership entities identifying the intersection of value and contribution to drive the Association into the future while recognizing the value of pairing the Association brand with the member organization to bring greater influence to the marketplace.”

Members in the two supplier categories do not compete for priority; they perform for the good of the membership and the Association. Points are accumulated by (1) providing the social capital value, (2) maintaining an active and current membership balance, (3) actively using Association vehicles (i.e., advertising, networking, exhibiting, and sponsoring), (4) participating in customer evaluations for on-time delivery and product support, and (5) building up the membership with effort in the Golden Tie Membership program. Any company can achieve sufficient performance points within this program during their first year to enter their second year with an invitation to become a Preferred Supplier through the engagement rubric.

Once the status has been achieved, the benefits include global recognition and search value through the Association website, prioritized access to event participation, digital badge and media branding for self-promotion, features in print, recognition at major industry events (e.g., WOC and CFACON), and much more.

For more information, including where your organization may stand in the current rubric and what additional information is necessary to qualify, interested parties can reach out to Association staff at

info@cfaconcretepros.org or

contact Association headquarters at 319-895-6940.

Best Practice Groups Continue Making A Difference

One of the significant considerations for members of the Association is how the CFA impacts their business. Keeping in mind that first and foremost the CFA is a network of organizations run by like-minded and passionate leaders, networking remains the most valuable benefit. With this in mind, Best Practice Groups (BPGs) were initiated a couple of years ago as the CFA Board of Directors and Membership Task Force worked with staff to leverage skills developed during the pandemic.

Using video conferencing, the CFA offers a monthly networking meeting for an hour during lunch (Eastern and Central time zones). Each month the group explores a new topic, often based on an interest identified by a member. Networking thrives when someone realizes their question may be shared by others, and this dynamic fuels our meetings. BPGs meet in a town hall format, and a topic is introduced through brief presentations by staff, subject-matter experts, and/or sponsors. During other monthly sessions, participants are separated into breakout groups for more diverse discussions before returning to a town hall setting to share major concepts and points of interest.

During the August 2024 BPG, the topic of “managing expectations” was brought up in the group setting. Following a brief introduction, three breakout room sessions gave space for sharing thoughts on what managing expectations means through three different lenses. These lenses were owners/contractors, inspectors/code officials, and employees/workforce. The result was a collection of strategies and thoughts that everyone involved could begin immediately testing against company practices and culture. Considering owners or contractors, one attendee suggested sub-contractors “paint their expectations for them”—meaning that as sub-contractors you have the experience to anticipate owners’ or contractors’ concerns, needs, and interests, and you are in the best position to develop those expectations rather than leaving them to do so on their own. Considering inspectors, one attendee said, “Take the time, particularly with new inspectors, and donate your morning to that job and that inspection.” This idea inserts your expertise into the equation as a service and a value you add to the inspection office. Do not overlook your potential to train others you intersect with. Considering the workforce, another attendee said, “Expectations without communication are just thoughts.” This observation settles emotions and reminds all parties that communication is necessary to align effectiveness and performance.

Best Practice Groups are one of the many ways the CFA continues to curate an environment for professional contractors of all sizes, experiences, and interests that helps them achieve their maximum potential. Learning from and sharing with others is at the heart of what has driven this association over its 50-year history.

For more information or to register for attendance at the next session(s), visit the events page at https://cfaconcretepros.org or reach out to Association staff at info@cfaconcretepros.org or 319-895-6940.

Caught-In-Action

Attention to detail

This is a trait every employer hopes to inculcate in the workforce they send outward to jobs.  It is the mark that often establishes the strata in the marketplace, elevating the most professional teams. Although never surprised when this is identified, the leadership at Beaver Concrete Construction is proud of the individual commitment they repeatedly find. Day in and day out, committed team members like Apolinar Cruz Pacheco pay attention to the small details, ensuring every project is completed with excellence. “We are transforming visions into reality, one smooth pour at a time,” states company president and new CFA Board member, Tim Spangler.

Do you have photos of exceptional work or aspects of your business “caught in action” you would like to nominate? Send them directly to CFA Executive Director, James Baty at jbaty@cfaconcretepros.org.

Evaluating the Performance of Portland Limestone Cement (Type 1L) and the Mitigating Effects of Liquid Floor Hardeners/Densifiers

By Lee Nabb – Nox-Crete Flooring Division Manager

Abstract:

Portland Limestone Cement (PLC) or Type 1L cement, a blended cement containing limestone, has gained significant market share due to its reduced environmental impact compared to traditional Type 1 Portland Cement. However, recent field experience has highlighted potential challenges when using Type 1L cement such as increased porosity, reduced early strength, and higher abrasion susceptibility compared to traditional Type 1 Portland Cement. This study investigates the performance of Type 1L Portland Cement compared to traditional Type 1 Portland Cement with a specific focus on abrasion resistance. Additionally, the effectiveness of Nox-Crete’s liquid floor hardener/densifiers in mitigating these challenges is explored.

Introduction:

The construction industry is continuously seeking sustainable solutions to minimize environmental impact. Type 1L (T1L) cement, a blended cement incorporating limestone, has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional Type 1 (T1) cement. Industry experts estimate that cement production accounts for approximately 8% of worldwide CO2 (greenhouse gas) emissions; the shift to T1L cement is driven by the desire to lower the carbon footprint associated with cement production.

Despite its environmental benefits, recent field observations suggest potential challenges associated with the use of lower early compressive strengths, and higher porosity, as compared to floors placed with traditional T1 cement. These characteristics can lead to concerns regarding the durability and performance of concrete structures, particularly in applications such as manufacturing facilities and warehouse/distribution centers where abrasion resistance is critical.

Evaluation of Abrasion Resistance:

This study aimed to compare the abrasion resistance of concrete test specimens cast using either T1 or T1L cement and assess the potential benefits of Nox-Crete’s liquid floor hardener/densifiers in mitigating any observed abrasion resistance deficiencies. Tabor abrasion testing (per ASTM D4060) was conducted to evaluate the degradation patterns of both cement types over time.

Results:

The findings revealed that untreated control specimens using T1 cement exhibited greater early (7-14 days) abrasion resistance compared to specimens cast with T1L cement. At these early stages, T1 specimens displayed approximately 50% and 27% greater abrasion resistance at 7 and 14 days, respectively, compared to specimens containing T1L cement. While the abrasion resistance became more comparable at later stages, T1 specimens still maintained a slight edge at 28 days, with 8% greater abrasion resistance at 500 revolutions compared to the T1L specimens.

Impact of Liquid Floor Hardener/Densifiers:

The study also investigated the effectiveness of Nox-Crete’s liquid floor hardener/densifiers in improving the abrasion resistance of T1L-containing concrete. The results indicated that applying a less reactive (lower solids) Nox-Crete densifier at the time of concrete placement, followed by a second application approximately 28 days later, yielded significant abrasion improvement compared to the untreated control. The aforementioned approach substantially improved the early abrasion resistance of T1L concrete, precisely during the period when the concrete exhibits its weakest performance. Thus, in instances where interim slab protection during the construction process is important, applying a coat of liquid floor hardener/densifier early on will afford valuable protection. It was also noted, as confirmed by previous testing, that a single coat application of a more reactive (higher solids) Nox-Crete densifier after a full 28-day cure resulted in the overall best abrasion resistance for both T1 and T1L cement-containing mixes.

Conclusion:

This study confirms the potential challenges of concrete containing T1L cement as it relates to early abrasion resistance. However, the findings also demonstrate the effectiveness of Nox-Crete’s liquid floor hardener/densifiers in mitigating this challenge. Applying densifiers at strategic points during the construction process can significantly enhance the early abrasion resistance of T1L cement-containing concrete, ensuring optimal performance without compromising environmental benefits.

Future Research:

Further research is recommended to explore the long-term performance of T1L cement-containing concrete treated with a liquid floor hardener/densifier across various environmental conditions and loading scenarios. Additionally, investigations into the potential synergy between densifiers and other supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) used in conjunction with T1L cement could provide valuable insights for optimizing concrete performance.

Risk Mitigation:

•  Verify type of cement to be used on your project

•  Communicate with all parties involved

•  Review architectural specifications

•  If possible, obtain mix design and send to your chemical supplier

•  Use trusted sources to stay updated on ongoing changes/developments

•  Always attempt a mock-up

I Did It My Way!

As the Olympic closing ceremony draws to a close, one of the most iconic songs of all time, Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” resonated through the air. It was a poignant moment that evoked emotion, bringing tears to athletes and viewers worldwide—perhaps even to you (but don’t worry, your secret is safe with me!).

Every leader who runs a company has earned the right to do so, and naturally, they want to operate their company their way. It’s only logical, right? We all aspire to run our businesses “my way!”

But here’s a critical question: Is your way the best way to navigate your company through today’s turbulent times?

Take a look at some of the most successful Olympians, like Michael Phelps and Katie Ledecky. Over the course of four Olympic Games, they worked with three or four different coaches, winning gold medals each time.

Is your company the gold medal winner in your market?

Are you participating in Concrete Foundations Association events, where you can learn new techniques and strategies from other successful concrete contractors?

Have you considered hiring a coach to enhance specific areas of your business that need improvement?

You might be wondering, “What about you, Bill? Have you hired a coach recently?” Well, last year, I invested $18,000 in a year-long coaching program to elevate my business—after 42 years in the industry, I can confidently say there’s always room for improvement!

Are you satisfied with the candidates your business attracts? Or do you find yourself feeling lucky just to fill positions?

There are various strategies for attracting more and better candidates, whether they’re laborers or skilled workers. And here’s the good news: your business doesn’t have to be the highest-paying in the market to draw top talent.

If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to me to set up a conversation: www.recruiterguy.com/contact/

Most companies can improve their recruiting processes. As a leading talent attraction consultant, I am here to help your business attract the best workers. My consultancy will benefit your concrete business by helping you secure competent and qualified employees. I am RecruiterGuy, and I’m not just here to assist you; I will also donate 25% of my fee to the Concrete Foundations Association. Let’s get to work!

RockWell Announces the Launch of “The New Denali” Window Well, Coming Mid-2024

RockWell Window Wells is thrilled to unveil The New Denali. This next-generation product promises to redefine window wells, designed to meet modern construction needs while maintaining a budget-friendly approach.

Vaughn Cook, RockWell’s President, shared his excitement about the product:

“We are so excited to introduce the arrival of The New Denali. We’ve completely reimagined this next-generation window well to meet the ever-changing needs of our customers.”

The New Denali is crafted from a durable, fiberglass composite material, offering exceptional durability and enhanced aesthetics. The window well’s sleek design and modern color palette, developed in collaboration with interior design experts, make it perfect for any home. RockWell’s focus on both form and function ensures that The New Denali not only looks great but performs exceptionally well.

Engineered for Strength and Durability

The New Denali doesn’t just offer aesthetic appeal—it’s built to perform. Utilizing advanced beam theory, RockWell has re-engineered the flanges, ribs, and top lip of the window well to add strength and stiffness in critical areas. The use of fiberglass composite materials ensures that The New Denali is rustproof, maintaining its beauty for years to come. This material choice reflects RockWell’s commitment to long-lasting, high-quality products that perform in real-world conditions.

Tested to Exceed Expectations

RockWell has put The New Denali through extensive testing, including computer-aided engineering and real-world condition simulations. These rigorous tests confirm the window well’s superior performance, strength, and reliability, offering peace of mind to homeowners and builders alike.

 

A Legacy of Innovation

“We’ve taken everything great about the original Denali and made it even better,” said Cook. “The New Denali truly represents the new standard of window wells, and we’re confident that it will exceed the expectations of builders and homeowners alike.”

As RockWell continues to lead the window well industry, The New Denali exemplifies their ongoing commitment to providing cutting-edge, high-quality products that meet the evolving demands of the market.

Learn More

To learn more about The New Denali and where to purchase, visit RockWellinc.com.

PROFESSIONAL AWARDS CONCRETE FOUNDATIONS ASSOCIATION

Professionalism Recognized by Peers CFA Announces 2024 Professional Awards

Among the truest statements of any career is the adage, “It is not about what you know but rather who you know.” While this phrase is profound, one of its limiting factors is that it only covers knowledge. True, knowledge is power; yet in the Concrete Foundations Association, perhaps the most telling proof of someone’s impact is that of their service and their commitment to the betterment of an industry. This perspective is fitting when looking at this year’s nominations and professional awards.

Taking place offshore for the first time, #CFACON24 was held in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico in mid-July. This was another year of attendance growth and high energy. At this location, the Concrete Foundations Convention offered one of the most unique environments for the second-largest convention attendance in post-Recession history. Those who took a chance on getting away to work on their business (rather than constantly tunneling into their business) found an array of helpful and inspirational messages, fresh perspectives on integrating technology, and, for many, an unparalleled backdrop for relaxed expansion of business relationships. This year, we brought back the Awards Gala as the opening of the Convention. Keynote speaker, Jorge “Pepe” Izquierdo, a professional engineer and former president of the American Concrete Institute, welcomed the attendees to the great island of Puerto Rico and invited them to engage with the rich history of concrete found there. Then CFA’s executive director, James Baty, took the stage to unveil the exciting selections for winning projects and professionals as evaluated by the voting membership of the Association. Be sure to spend time with the astounding category-winning project awards on page 30 in this issue. What makes this part of the evening all the more special is the recognition of leaders, where we award members who have been making a difference across the landscape of Association opportunities.

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GOLDEN TIE MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AWARD:

WESTERN FORMS

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

Introduced in 2023, the Golden Tie Membership Development Award recognizes the member who has put in the most effort toward growing the Association’s network. Members participate are in the best position to recognize other companies that should be members.  Therefore, this program uses a strategy of identifying, inviting, and participating in maintaining contact, encouraging any member to consider those companies in their market or whom they do business that might be an ideal fit to be a member. Working with CFA staff, the prospects who become members align themselves with the CFA and add to the special environment this Association holds for the cast-in-place concrete industry. Recalling inspiration from the immediate past CFA president, Jason Ells, executive vice president for Custom Concrete of Westfield, Indiana: “As much as a rising tide raises all ships, this award recognizes any member who brings membership to the table.” The second year of this competition saw a significant increase in participation from national associates, consultants, and contractor members alike. Nevertheless, this year’s second-time winner was bound and determined to not give up the crown.

Western Forms of Kansas City, Missouri, tallied the highest point total, significantly growing their total from the preceding year and outpacing some tough competition to become the first repeat. Reminded of the motivational message offered last year by the company’s vice president, Chris Ward, the Western team took the stage to proudly challenge others to equal the company-wide approach to this effort. Congratulations to Chis Ward, Brian Ward, Jim Aylward, Evan Resetar, and Tom Carkhuff.

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KICK-START MEMBER OF THE YEAR:

MILLS FOUNDATIONS LLC

NIXA, MISSOURI

Occasionally, the first time around does not hit the mark, and another try is necessary to prove how valuable joining an organization can be. Whether defined by the very first steps of membership or by retracing these steps, the Kick-Start Member of the Year recognizes companies that show how diving in, exploring networking, interacting with others, and experiencing the vast array of support and resources can be beneficial to the goals of their companies. This is at the heart of the award that honors the intentional exploration of the professional network found in the Concrete Foundations Association.

Having joined in 2018, Mills Foundations admits having been a relatively stagnant member, simply paying dues to the Association. When the market challenged them, a membership lapse seemed appropriate. However, after a brief hiatus, Kevin Mills was determined to return, and, this time, to do something with it. Since that decision, there has not been a CFA opportunity where Mills has not had representation. Between BPG calls, conventions, executive retreats, and networking at Foundation Contractors’ Night, someone from the Mills Foundation team (including Kevin, his brother Densil, and occasionally Kevin’s son or daughter) has brought contributions and taken away value. The Board recognizes that Mills Foundations exemplifies the type of contractor member the CFA seeks, one that is passionate about learning from others and is able to confidently share their own experiences.

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NATIONAL ASSOCIATE OF THE YEAR:

JOHN PAESANO OF WHITE CAP

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

Recognizing that commitment to the organization and contributions come in many forms, the Association has maintained an award specifically honoring the National Associate membership category. These are companies that, at a minimum, work in multiple regions across the United States, manufacturing, distributing, and servicing the catalog of products and equipment that cast-in-place contractors require. While it is certain that companies come to the Association first to pursue brand value and product growth, this award seeks those companies that find parallel value and energy in being part of change. The Associate of the Year honors one of the many National Associate members (company or individual) for their commitment to supporting and growing the Association. Their efforts are to be recognized in relationship to the mission and purpose of the CFA as well as their presence in the industry. National Associate members are the national supplier and manufacturer members of the Association and can be found in the CFA’s active Products and Services Directory.

Having been part of the membership growth initiative during the COVID years, John Paesano of White Cap honed a vision of how to strategically encourage growth and participation across all membership categories. Since joining the CFA Board as one of the three National Associate representatives, John has championed the priority he sensed was needed in the Association: more companies talking with more companies. He has been a strong influence in establishing the Golden Tie Award and the recently launched Preferred Supplier membership program, both aimed at membership growth and participation. Furthermore, he is committed to introducing the CFA across the catalog of brands White Cap carries, and he diligently works with CFA staff to make sure every conversation results in a follow-up effort to convince them to join, leading to many new members. John Paesano has become a force in growing the availability of technology, focus, and conversation for the CFA Contractor member as well as bettering the market for the companies that feed the industry.

“You would have to work hard to find a more considerate yet confident voice speaking affirmation into the Board of Directors,” said James Baty. “At a time when the Association must rely more and more on relationships amidst the noise of opportunity and pulls on attention and resources, John has been a stalwart for what the CFA stands for and how best to represent that. His undying support and tenacity are a large part of the reason why membership growth along with the richness of opportunity has been so successful.”

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INNOVATIVE CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR:

MCCLURE CONCRETE

AURORA, COLORADO

The cast-in-place concrete industry represents one of the most historic methods of construction.  One of the more challenging aspects of such long-standing industry is the act of maintaining the energy of innovation. Therefore, one role that associations have is to maintain the encouragement and recognition of practices and systems evolving. New technology in the form of computers, programs, advanced mechanics or logic, equipment, and even processes themselves are the evidence of innovative solutions. Often initiated by contractors themselves, tapping experience and creativity allows the industry to find better ways without significant capital investment or expense. The Spirit of Innovation for the Innovative Contractor of the Year Award recognizes an individual or company for developing, creating, or instituting new concepts across a broad spectrum of business categories, including construction, management, and marketing.

This year’s recipient was nominated by industry advocate Ernie Jessup of the CFA member organization, Concrete Forms Services (EZ-Footing). Jessup said, “I have had the pleasure of dealing with McClure Concrete for seventeen years. Their operation utilizes every conceivable advantage in terms of innovations, from fleet tracking and the latest bid software, to total stations, lasers, and of course the most advanced forming systems. Their commitment to innovative technology makes it possible to continually better themselves, enhance productivity, and provide the best product available.”

“McClure is not only an example of innovation for the industry, but they are also a fascinating case study for impact to this Association early in their membership,” said Baty. “Considering that they activated their membership just this year but had already been impacting the marketplace and Association peers for decades demonstrates why the Association is benefitting right now from relationships.” Service to the industry and pride in their work is part of the McClure story, which ties in well with their experience and innovation. “We build houses,” said Devin Bundy, company owner. “We are the start of somebody’s future, and I take pride in driving around and seeing all the houses that we’ve helped pour.”

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CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR:  

HOTTMANN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY INC.

DANE, WISCONSIN

The CFA’s most frequently awarded recognition is the Contractor of the Year award. This recognizes the industry contributions of a poured-wall contractor and often evidences the efforts they make beyond their company’s location and position to benefit the greater goals of the Association and the industry. This award demonstrates the service, technology, and knowledge needed to advance the use of poured-wall construction. The recipient is acknowledged for unselfish commitment to peers, to the Association, and to the industry both at their market level as well as on a national scale.

Nominated by two different active members, this year’s recognition is given to Ken Kurszewski, president of Hottmann Construction. Having served on the Board of Directors for multiple terms and now stepping into his new role as vice president for the Board, Ken has been a strong advocate for moving his company deeper into the Association. Jim Aylward of Western Forms said, “Ken is constantly looking for ways to grow and improve his business. As a company, they work together to find ways of being more efficient, utilizing new technologies, and learning about the industry movements outside of their market.” Ken and the Hottmann team have contributed much time, talent, and resources to the Association. Footage from the ground-breaking workforce development video was contributed from their own corporate “sizzle reel,” and you can frequently identify Ken willing to help others in the business with questions and information.

Further testimony for this recognition came from the relatively new participant, Jimmy Ingman of Progressive Foam, a National Associate member company. Ingman said, “[The folks] at Hottmann Construction have been innovators for years in Wisconsin in poured-wall concrete applications. Hottmann has always pushed for better walls in residential construction, [but] more importantly, [they have] invested in its people through an extensive training program that allows team members to come aboard and learn at the right pace. The use of a training crew that has experienced members training new members in the field at a slower pace allows for success out of the gate. The results are evident in the field with great foundations and an ever-expanding business platform.”

Ken Kurszewski was on hand at CFACON24 to receive this award and offered humble yet motivational words to the assembly. With his young daughter at his side, he talked about the present and the future of this Association and encouraged his peers to continue seeking new ways to bring the CFA deeper into their organizations and not to hold back from exploring ways their knowledge might benefit the lives and efforts of others. This is the heart of the CFA he has found, and he is thankful to be part of this leadership moment.

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MVP:

NATE SALTER

MINT DRONE SHOTS

Research, program development, resource contribution, educational leadership, and impactful industry advancement are all descriptors that support the recognition several members have received from the Association in the more than a decade of identifying excellence.  The Most Valuable Player Award (MVP) is occasionally awarded to a person who has worked the hardest to advance poured concrete foundations through research, pioneering spirit, and market challenge. This award, established by the CFA Board of Directors in 2009 is bestowed when the opportunity arises to merit work for which the Association or the industry can grow.

During CFACON24 in Puerto Rico this summer, Nate Salter of Mint Drone Shots received an MVP Award.  Nate’s work has been featured in numerous environments curated by CFA for the elevation of craftmanship and quality performance from the membership.  Perhaps most importantly, Salter has developed a reputation for “making concrete sexy again” as he works with an increasing number of CFA members in the northeastern U.S. using his artistic eye for photography and videography. “Behind the lens of his camera or from hundreds of feet in the air by remote, Nate has significantly elevated the perception of concrete construction,” stated James Baty, CFA’s Executive Director, during the awards ceremony. “The storylines he creates are quickly becoming the marketing advantage these contractors need in a market typically described by undercut profits and time/material scopes of work. He sees the energy, passion, and creativity of a workforce whose final product is almost always lost to the advancing schedule.  These deserve to be told, and through his lenses, they are becoming the future of marketing for this centuries-old construction method.”