ACI technical committee Chairs are expected to attend this breakfast workshop to meet with fellow Chairs, TAC members, and ACI staff to hear updates on important recent developments of interest to ACI technical committee Chairs. There will be table discussions and short presentations. If you are unable to attend, please ask the Secretary of your committee or another committee member to represent you in your absence. Attendance is by invitation only.
Chapter Officers are invited to come and enjoy a delicious hot breakfast, while networking with peers from around the world.
Title: Using Video Games and Virtual Reality to Understand Material Behavior and Structural Design
Description:
Sponsored by Committee S802. Advances in digital technology are transforming how concrete professionals learn, train, and apply technical knowledge. This session demonstrates the use of video game and virtual reality (VR) environments as professional development tools for improving understanding of concrete microstructure and structural performance. A custom-designed video game allows users to visualize the crystalline development of concrete and explore how hydration and admixture interactions affect strength and durability. Complementary VR modules place participants inside realistic structural systems, where they can investigate load paths, structural analysis, and design decisions in immersive 3D space. These tools provide hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that enhance intuition and retention-ideal for engineers, inspectors, educators, and contractors seeking to deepen their technical expertise. Attendees will experience demonstrations and learn strategies for integrating these technologies into academic classrooms as well as professional training, safety, and design programs.
Speakers:
- Ann C. Sychterz, PhD, PEng Assistant Professor Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Nishant Garg Associate Professor Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Moderators: Dr Jose A Pincheira, Dr Julian Carrillo
This session will address the experience with ACI 318 as the structural concrete building code in Latin American countries. The advantages, concerns and potential barriers to adopting or adapting ACI 318 to local design and construction practice will be presented and discussed. Many Latin American countries have adopted, adapted, or use the ACI 318 Building Code as the de facto national building code for structural concrete. Other countries in the region, however, use it only on an ad hoc basis but are considering ACI 318 as a model code for the development of their own national code. Invited session speakers will discuss the experience in adopting or adapting ACI 318 to their local design and construction practice, and the role of the ACI 318-25 Building Code in the development of design codes for structural concrete in Latin American countries.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Undestand the advantages and barries to adopting, or adapting, ACI 318 to other building codes;
(2) Understand the differences and similitudes of the code adoption process in different countries;
(3) Learn about the nuances and potential concerns in adopting ACI 318 to the local design and construction practice, methods of construction, inspection methods, and classification and testing of materials;
(4) Learn about the main changes included in the 2025 edition of ACI 318.
Moderators: Mr Onur Ozturk, Dr Karthik Pattaje
Moderator: Mohammed Al-Sharah
Moderator: Dr Lisa E Burris
This mini-session, hosted by ACI Committee 240 – Pozzolans, will highlight current student research on the use of natural pozzolans as supplementary cementitious materials. Researchers will present short talks featuring new findings on pozzolanic materials characterization methods, processing strategies, and performance outcomes. The session aims to connect emerging researchers with industry and academic professionals while showcasing the most recent advances and ongoing challenges in developing sustainable pozzolanic materials for concrete.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Identify recent advances in the characterization, activation, and performance evaluation of natural pozzolans used as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs);
(2) Discuss the influence of mineralogical composition and/or processing methods on the pozzolanic reactivity and performance of natural pozzolans in concrete;
(3) Learn about current research approaches and testing methods for assessing the reactivity, strength contribution, and long-term stability of natural pozzolans in blended cements;
(4) Recognize emerging challenges, research gaps, and opportunities for scaling the use of natural pozzolans to meet sustainability and performance goals in modern cementitious systems.
Moderator: Dr Bassem Andrawes
The objective of this session is to inform the audience about the innovative applications of Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) in prestressing concrete bridges. These emerging metallic materials have the unique ability to change shape when heated, which opens up a wide range of unconventional prestressing applications in concrete structures. This mini session will emphasize the superior performance of SMA prestressed transverse reinforcement, including stirrups and spirals, in various bridge elements such as precast girders and piers.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Provide a basic understanding of how Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) bars can be used for concrete prestressing;
(2) Demonstrate the impact of using prestressed transverse reinforcement in concrete members (stirrups and spirals);
(3) Illustrate how SMA transverse reinforcement can reduce steel congestion while still improving the performance compared to conventional steel reinforcement;
(4)
Moderator: Mrs Keila Heitmeyer
This session will review case studies from various backgrounds on the benefits of planning and having a robust quality management system in place. The benefits can be from increasing productivity, reducing rework, improving reputation, better employee retention, and cost savings, to name a few. Performance tests and updated standards will also be discussed. This session will be for all aspects of the industry, from designers to contractors to suppliers.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Recognize the benefits of having a quality management system in place;
(2) Review case studies to better understand the potential for company savings by having a quality management system;
(3) Identify areas of improvement across the different stakeholders in the concrete industry;
(4) Understand the importance of having an investment in quality.
All attendees are welcome to the Student Awards Program featuring a keynote presentation followed by the announcement of the winners of the student competition. Preregistration is not required.
More information coming soon.
Moderators: Dr Sureka Sumanasooriya, Kerry E Sutton
Although not sponsored by an international organization (other than NEU), this session is intended to provide a global perspective on decarbonization efforts related to the concrete industry. This session, sponsored by NEU: an ACI Center of Excellence for Carbon Neutral Concrete, will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in low-carbon concrete. This session will explore everything from cutting-edge materials and technologies to real-world applications. Through compelling case studies and expert insights, attendees will discover how successful projects have leveraged these innovations to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of concrete. Beyond the technological breakthroughs, this session will also examine the critical path forward, looking at how policy, market incentives, and collaborative strategies are working together to achieve carbon reduction goals.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Identify the most promising low-carbon concrete solutions, including novel materials and technologies;
(2) Discover how engineers and architects can design structures and write specifications that effectively integrate low-carbon concrete and encourage innovation;
(3) Analyze lessons learned from successful projects to understand both achievements and the challenges that remain;
(4) Explore the critical roles of digital tools, government policy, and industry collaboration in accelerating the transition to a net-zero future.
Moderators: Mr Onur Ozturk, Dr Karthik Pattaje
Moderators: Dr Sivakumar Ramanathan, Dr Linfei Li
The objective of this session is to disseminate knowledge about the advances, opportunities, and the potential of using cellulose nanomaterials (CNMs) in cementitious mixtures. The session will host talks on fresh properties (hydration, rheology, dispersion, and adsorption), hardened properties (mechanical and durability properties), and applications (e.g., 3D printing) of CNMs in cementitious systems.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Understanding the effect of CNMs or early age properties of concrete;
(2) Understanding long term properties of cementitious paste, mortar, and concrete mixtures with CNMs;
(3) Dispersion of CNMs in cementitious systems;
(4) Field applications and 3D printing possibilities.
Moderator: Mr Jonathan M Kuell
Bring more value to chapters at the convention with an opportunity to present success stories from their chapter and for other chapters to network and gain ideas of what may help their chapter as well.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Learn what makes other chapters successful;
(2) Knowledge and experience sharing amongst chapters;
(3) Bring value back to your local chapter through idea sharing with other chapters;
(4)
Moderators: Rachel Cook, Emma Zhang
Take a behind the scenes tour of one of ACI’s premier Resource Centers! Just a quick 15 minute bus ride from the convention hotel, the Midwest Resource Center offers a unique chance to explore the full range of ACI’s 30+ Certification programs, hands on training opportunities, and industry leading educational seminars.
During this 30 minute tour, you’ll:
• Step inside our state of the art laboratory
• Meet the expert staff who support ACI’s mission every day
• See our equipment and training setups up close
• Learn how Resource Centers can support your team through customizable training, onboarding programs, certification prep, and more
Whether you're interested in strengthening your team’s skills, exploring professional development opportunities, or simply curious about how ACI helps advance the concrete industry, this tour offers inspiration and insight at every turn.
Buses depart every 30 minutes on the hour and half hour.
Tours available Monday from 1:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Come see why ACI Resource Centers are Your Place to Advance. Let us show you the capabilities, opportunities, and support waiting for you at all three of our locations.
Moderators: Dr Ben Dymond, Dr Jacob Henschen
This session features presentations associated with 10 collaborative papers from within a larger symposium volume. Each manuscript was written by groups of faculty who use some of the most innovative approaches to teach topics in concrete materials and structural concrete design at the upper-division and graduate level. The session will include presentations related to educational resources for teaching these concrete topics, student competitions in advanced courses, additive manufacturing, sustainability, advanced concrete rheology, concrete repair, concrete pavements, torsion, concrete bridge design, and prestressed concrete design.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Identify various forms of effective pedagogies used in engineering education and relate them to concrete materials;
(2) Describe innovative approaches used to teach advanced concrete materials;
(3) Identify how teaching advanced concrete materials relates to various student learning styles;
(4) Take-home various pedagogical techniques to integrate into your advanced concrete materials courses.
Moderators: Dr Nur Yazdani , Dr Ben Dymond
Substructure is one of the critical components for the structural integrity and performance of a bridge. Its function includes load transfer from the superstructure to the ground, lateral load resistance from wind and seismic activities, structural continuity and rigidity, and aesthetics. Most state and national specifications provide guidance on bent cap design with complexity ranging from a simple multi-column rectangular cap to a long-span integral post-tensioned cap. However, several areas still require refinement and improvement to streamline substructure design, construction, evaluation, and maintenance.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Attendee education and training on currently trending and next-generation substructure design, construction, evaluation, and maintenance approaches;
(2) Input from contractors, designers, material suppliers, and inspectors or evaluators design challenges that can be rectified with academia-industry collaboration;
(3) Learn recommendations to improve the during and post-hazard resiliency of bridge substructures;
(4) Learn approaches to improve the longevity of existing and new bridge substructures.
Moderator: Dr Jacob L Borgerson
This session is intended to introduce individuals to the historical aspects of concrete and concrete construction practices in Chicagoland. Attendees will gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the development of the concrete industry.
Learning Objectives:
(1) State the origins of architectural concrete in Chicago;
(2) Describe the history of concrete pavements in Illinois;
(3) Identify the historical relevance of high-strength concrete;
(4) Summarize the history of concrete domes.
Moderators: Dr Ceki Halmen , Dr Neal S Berke
This session explores innovative strategies to enhance the service life of both new and existing concrete structures through sustainable practices. Experts will discuss the role of low-carbon cements, natural and alternative pozzolanic materials in improving corrosion resistance—examining not just the delay in corrosion initiation, but also the long-term corrosion rates post-initiation. The impact of corrosion-resistant reinforcement bars on durability will be highlighted, along with the latest developments in Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for alternative binders and reinforcement materials. The session will also address how repair and maintenance practices contribute to sustainability by extending the lifespan of aging infrastructure.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Understand the role of sustainable materials in enhancing the durability and service life of concrete structures;
(2) Gain awareness of alternative cementitious and reinforcement materials and their impact on structural performance over time;
(3) Learn how sustainable practices contribute to long-term corrosion management in both new construction and existing structures;
(4) Recognize the importance of maintenance and repair strategies in promoting sustainability and extending infrastructure service life.
Moderator: Dr Mohanad M Abdulazeez
This mini-session, “Next-Generation Column Design with High-Performance Materials,” aims to highlight recent advances in materials, design approaches, and performance assessment methods that enhance the strength, ductility, and resilience of reinforced concrete columns. Presentations will address innovative solutions such as fire design for new-generation concretes, active confinement using shape memory alloys, and blast-resistant columns incorporating engineered cementitious composites. Additional discussions will explore composite CFFT systems, ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) interaction behavior, and the influence of foundation detailing under cyclic loading. Together, these studies advance the understanding and application of high-performance materials in next-generation column design.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Understand the structural behavior and design considerations of reinforced concrete columns incorporating next-generation materials such as UHPC, ECC, and advanced concretes under various loading and environmental conditions;
(2) Evaluate the effectiveness of novel confinement and reinforcement technologies—including shape memory alloy hoops and FRP tubes—in enhancing column strength, ductility, and durability;
(3) Apply updated design methodologies and performance-based guidelines for fire resistance, blast mitigation, and seismic resilience of high-performance concrete columns;
(4) Assess the influence of foundation reinforcement detailing and composite action on column–foundation deformation capacity and overall structural performance under cyclic and extreme loading.
Moderator: Mr David Shook
Contractor and engineer collaboration is important. An environment that fosters collaboration and minimizes risk benefits everyone but can only be created with clear understandings and boundaries. This session will showcase several successful Chicago-area projects that demonstrate positive collaboration. Voices from the construction and structural engineering sectors will share practical steps to enhance cooperation while addressing key concerns.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Identify and describe best practices from a contractor perspective on how to foster collaboration with the SEOR;
(2) Identify and describe best practices from an SEOR on how to foster collaboration with the contractor;
(3) Demonstrate best practices through project experiences from both contractor and SEOR perspectives;
(4) Best methods of structural analysis when collaborating with slab deflection and column creep.
Moderator: Jhenyffer L Asp
This session explores how performance and quality of concrete can be assessed using parameters beyond compressive strength. Presenters will discuss statistical evaluation methods, lessons learned from field data, and best practices for interpreting test results. Attendees will gain insights from NRMCA TIP 23 and ACI 214 guidance, learn how to apply statistical tools for compliance and quality assessment, and review case studies from airfield pavements. The session emphasizes how better data interpretation can improve specifications, communication, and overall project performance.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Understand how statistical principles from NRMCA TIP 23 and ACI 214 can be applied to interpret concrete strength test results accurately;
(2) Identify common misconceptions and sources of variability in strength testing and acceptance criteria;
(3) Evaluate field data to compare performance measures such as flexural strength, permeability, and resistivity in airfield concrete pavements;
(4) Develop strategies to improve specifications and quality communication among concrete producers, testing agencies, and specifiers.
Moderators: Dr Ben Dymond, Dr Jacob Henschen
This session features presentations associated with 10 collaborative papers from within a larger symposium volume. Each manuscript was written by groups of faculty who use some of the most innovative approaches to teach topics in concrete materials and structural concrete design at the upper-division and graduate level. The session will include presentations related to educational resources for teaching these concrete topics, student competitions in advanced courses, additive manufacturing, sustainability, advanced concrete rheology, concrete repair, concrete pavements, torsion, concrete bridge design, and prestressed concrete design.
Moderators: Dr Anne M Werner, Dr Armen Amirkhanian
Learning Objectives:
(1)
Understand the various methods for creating aesthetic concrete;
(2)
Understand the benefits of promoting the aesthetic qualities of concrete
;
(3)
(4)
Moderators: Dr Nur Yazdani , Dr Ben Dymond
Substructure is one of the critical components for the structural integrity and performance of a bridge. Its function includes load transfer from the superstructure to the ground, lateral load resistance from wind and seismic activities, structural continuity and rigidity, and aesthetics. Most state and national specifications provide guidance on bent cap design with complexity ranging from a simple multi-column rectangular cap to a long-span integral post-tensioned cap. However, several areas still require refinement and improvement to streamline substructure design, construction, evaluation, and maintenance.
Moderators: Dr Ceki Halmen , Mr David W Whitmore
This session explores innovative strategies to enhance the service life of both new and existing concrete structures through sustainable practices. Experts will discuss the role of low-carbon cements, natural and alternative pozzolanic materials in improving corrosion resistance—examining not just the delay in corrosion initiation, but also the long-term corrosion rates post-initiation. The impact of corrosion-resistant reinforcement bars on durability will be highlighted, along with the latest developments in Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for alternative binders and reinforcement materials. The session will also address how repair and maintenance practices contribute to sustainability by extending the lifespan of aging infrastructure.
Please join WACI for this reception/networking event. During this reception, the Women in ACI will introduce the winners of the Young Professional Convention Sponsorship, recognize award winning women who have made significant contributions to ACI, and share the legacy of the Women in ACI. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy food, fellowship, and fun. This event has a long history at ACI and has grown from a small gathering of women attendees to an event attended by all convention demographics. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in the Concrete Art Auction Sponsored by Women in ACI. Proceeds from the auction benefit young professionals by providing the opportunity for convention registration. Please come join the Women in ACI and support young professionals!
Moderator: Dr Nishant Garg