ACI Convention

About the ACI Convention

Since the first convention held in 1905, ACI conventions have been dedicated to improving the design, construction, maintenance, and repair of concrete structures by offering over 300 committee meetings, 30+ technical and educational sessions (open to all), a number of social events, and an opportunity to visit with exhibitors. During conventions, attendees have the opportunity to provide input on concrete industry codes, specifications, and guides.

Additionally, ACI conventions offer numerous forums to network and reconnect with some of the most well-informed individuals in the concrete industry. Expect to meet with engineers, architects, contractors, educators, manufacturers, and material representatives from all over the world!

Photographs
ACI plans to take photographs at the ACI Fall 2009 Convention and reproduce them in ACI educational, news, or promotional material, whether in print, electronic, or other media, including the ACI Web site. By participating in the ACI Fall 2009 Convention, you grant ACI the right to use your name, photograph, and biography for such purposes.

Green Initiatives

In an effort to promote a "greener" convention, ACI asks that each attendee consider the following:

  • Return used name badges to the ACI Registration Desk.
  • E-mail committee meeting agendas and minutes to recipients.
  • Post your session handouts online for attendees to view.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle.
  • Rather than providing bottled water, ACI provides water stations in meeting rooms and in the exhibit area.
  • Reduce the amount of paper used for meetings and sessions by double-siding your copies.

In addition to ACI’s efforts, the New Orleans Marriott seeks to reduce, reuse, and recycle with the following practices:

  • Energy-efficient double insulated glass windows that reduce room temperatures.
  • Office paper and cardboard are recycled.
  • Uses post-consumer paper when possible.
  • Pens made from recycled materials.
  • 100% recycled note pads.
  • ENERGY STAR® certified property.
  • Water-saving shower heads in all guest rooms.
  • Water-conserving toilets in all guest rooms.
  • Vending machines utilize motion sensors for energy reduction.
  • Sensors and water conserving faucets in all public restrooms.
  • Fluorescent lighting throughout all meeting areas.
  • 5 fifty 5 Restaurant purchases produce from organic growers.
  • Starbucks uses recyclable cups from post-consumer paper.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

ACI conventions are ADA compliant. Individuals requiring special assistance must contact ACI Event Services for further information. All requests for special accommodations under ADA are handled on a case-by-case basis and must be made allowing enough time for evaluation and appropriate action by ACI. Please contact ACI Event Services at 248-848-3795 should you require assistance during the convention.

Book Drive

Book Drive


One of the leading causes of adolescent illiteracy worldwide is the insufficient and inappropriate supply of resources. In the U.S. alone, 13% of 17-year-olds are functionally illiterate and 44% of fourth-grade students cannot read aloud fluently. This fall, ACI will be conducting a book drive during the ACI Fall 2009 Convention in New Orleans, LA, in an effort to promote literacy.

Donated books will be given to the New Orleans branch of Communities in Schools, an organization that strives to champion the connection of needed community resources with schools to help young people successfully learn, stay in school, and prepare for life. All donated books will be given to local schools or directly to children as part of the Communities in Schools partnership with Reading is Fundamental’s book ownership program. For more information on Communities in Schools New Orleans, please visit http://www.cisneworleans.org/.

ACI is asking that each attendee bring a new or gently used book to the convention for children in grades K-12. Book donations can be made in the Grand Ballroom of the New Orleans Marriott from November 7-12, 2009, during open exhibit hours. Help us reach our goal of 800 books!

We look forward to your participation.