Performance-Based Earthquake Engineering of Bridges in the CEUS (ACI Fall 2023, Boston, MA) Seismic design is an important consideration for bridges within western states where large population centers are subject to significant seismic hazards. However, there is also a significant portion of the central and eastern US where seismic considerations play a critical role in bridge design. This presentation will focus on an overview of the seismic design practices of South Carolina, including information regarding specifications, detailing, material requirements, and liquefaction considerations, but will also include a discussion and comparison of practices from other central and eastern US states where seismic design is required for bridges. The example practices discussed will be compared with those from western states to highlight key similarities and differences.

Open Topic Session (ACI Fall 2023, Boston, MA) 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.