Title:
As the Drum Rolls: Transforming the Role of the Concrete Delivery Professional
Author(s):
Beth Unger
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
ws_F23_ElizabethMoore.pdf
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
10/29/2023
Abstract:
A major challenge in the ready-mix concrete (RMC) industry is recruiting and retaining Concrete Delivery Professionals (CDPs). Building off of existing knowledge within the industry, several research methods were applied to 1) understand current innovative solutions, 2) assess CDP job satisfaction, 3) identify potential technological and operational solutions, and 4) work with industry to determine key challenges to implementing solutions. Results found that recruitment, retention, and productivity are three major contributors to the CDP shortage. There is a growing opportunity to apply technological and operational solutions to expand the candidate pool of workers, increase job satisfaction (e.g., manage variable schedule, strengthen driver recognition), and improve driver productivity. For instance, a 12-minute decrease in idle time during deliveries would eliminate the 10% CDP vacancy rate. Through technological and operational changes, the culture of the industry can shift and cost savings can be realized.