Supporting the People of ACI

The ACI Concrete Convention – Spring 2026 in Rosemont/Chicago, IL, USA, was an energizing and productive week for our organization. With nearly 2300 participants, we saw record engagement across committee meetings, technical sessions, student activities, and networking events. ACI Conventions continue to be one of the few times annually when so many parts of the concrete industry gather in one place.

In last month’s memo, I shared that a key priority for me this year is the people of ACI. Our Conventions make that priority tangible. Attendees invest significant time and effort to contribute to ACI’s work, whether through committee service, technical presentations, competitions, or simply being present and engaged. I value these interactions and am grateful for the dedication shown by those who actively participate. Their involvement is essential to ACI’s continued leadership and relevance.

While ACI Conventions effectively serve our most engaged members, it is equally important that we keep in mind stakeholders who may never attend. Engineers designing everyday structures, contractors building work specified to ACI codes, public agencies using our documents to protect their communities, researchers advancing knowledge, educators and students learning the fundamentals of concrete, ACI staff, and our chapter organizations all rely on the work produced within the organization. These individuals and groups represent the majority of users of ACI documents and programs, even if we do not see them face-to-face.

Because of this, we must be intentional in how we develop codes, standards, certifications, and educational materials. Our work needs to be understandable, practical, and usable—not only for the most complex projects, but for the routine projects that make up much of the built environment. As ACI continues to grow internationally, we must also pay attention to how our processes and documents are experienced by users operating in different markets, cultures, and regulatory environments.

Looking ahead, ACI’s long-term strength depends on the next generation of professionals. Engineers, contractors, inspectors, researchers, technicians, and many others entering the concrete industry will shape its future. We need to actively invite them to ACI. Mentorship, encouragement, and support—especially early in a career—can make the difference between a passive connection and long-term engagement. Providing clear pathways to education, ACI Certification, ACI Chapter involvement, and leadership development should remain a central focus.

ACI also benefits greatly from the diversity of backgrounds represented in its leadership. Presidents have come from academia, research, consulting, industry, and construction. My own experience as a contractor shapes how I view ACI’s work. Our technical output is exceptional, but success also depends on whether that information can be applied in the field. Constructability and practicality must be considered alongside technical rigor. This is where our strategic priorities and initiatives, like PRO: An ACI Center of Excellence for Advancing Productivity, can help ensure ACI knowledge is accessible and useful for all the stakeholders we serve. Clear communication and practical guidance strengthen adoption and ultimately improve outcomes across the industry.

People are the foundation of strong organizations. By supporting contributors and intentionally developing future leaders, we position ACI to continue serving the concrete industry with authority, relevance, and impact for years to come.

– Scott Anderson