March 2010

With Wind in Our Sails

by Florian G. Barth

When I took the helm as ACI President, I was aware, of course, of the dedication and perseverance of the ACI crew—its staff and hardworking volunteers. I never guessed, however, that their immeasurable support would provide the wind for my journey. The peerless staff and volunteers of ACI are the reason that we as an organization have not only weathered a very demanding and, in many ways, bleak economic storm; but we have met goals and navigated to the forefront of innovative industry ideas.

I entered this office with specific objectives: to implement ACI's commitment to sustainable concrete, to advance concrete knowledge and its access, to expand ACI’s international role, to continue to provide excellent benefits for all our members while encouraging ACI membership among students and young professionals, and to expand ACI’s educational projects. I am pleased to report that, due to the cooperation and leadership of staff and volunteers, we have achieved these objectives.

My primary goal was to increase the understanding of sustainable practices relating to concrete, and I could not be happier with the leadership we have provided via the Concrete Joint Sustainability Initiative (JSI). What began as an informal effort to cooperate among three organizations has grown to be a streamlined initiative with 26 signatories. The Concrete JSI is positively changing the face of sustainability thinking in concrete-related industries beyond our borders. Through the rethinking of current concepts and practices, we're striving for a greener tomorrow.

A significant aspect of advancing ACI's documents has been the phenomenal work done to reorganize the 318 Code, ACI's flagship. Committee 318's dedicated efforts are bringing us closer to a completely reorganized version of this code. No less important are the ties we have strengthened and created with our partners in concrete internationally. This was achieved not only during meetings throughout Europe but also by inviting organizations from all around the world to collaborate with ACI as international partners. Through the active International Research Portal on ACI's Web site, ACI members have access to documents from partners around the globe. Remaining in tune with the latest technological trends in knowledge dissemination, ACI has established Committee 131, Building Information Modeling for Concrete Structures, which will track developments in this cutting-edge realm of design and construction information.

In terms of educational goals, we have reorganized the Educational Activities Committee and achieved the recommendations of the ACI Board Task Group on Improving Educational Programs. These included the development of an online learning program, inspector certification training, an audio version of the "Contractor's Guide to Quality Concrete Construction," and a sustainability Web site.

This past year has been one of great economic challenge and ACI responded aggressively to the recession by balancing existing and new projects within budgetary guidelines, adhering to a cost-neutral standard for new projects. Unfortunately, some planned programs for younger members were postponed. This fiscal responsibility together with the excellent implementation of ACI’s austerity plan has kept ACI on stable ground and able to provide the benefits our members have come to expect.

I cannot adequately express my heartfelt thanks to all who allowed me to take the helm this past year. First, I must thank the ACI membership. Your willingness to collaborate, your dedication, your initiative, and your tireless efforts make me extremely proud to be part of the ACI crew. I extend special thanks to my colleagues on ACI’s Executive Committee and Board of Direction for their gracious guidance and aid. I am grateful for the unconditional support from President-Elect Richard Stehly and wish him all the best for his upcoming term. The immeasurable dedication of Executive Vice President William Tolley created a dynamic working relationship that allowed us to expand our efforts and venture farther than I ever expected. Last, but not least, thanks to the visionary ACI managing directors and tireless staff members who turned ideas into realities and made assignments and travel enjoyable.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you all. Here’s to another year of smooth sailing.

Florian G. Barth
American Concrete Institute
fb@florian.com

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