News Detail

A Global Focus on Projects—and ACI Chapters, Too

8/1/2014

Around the world, magnificent buildings, roads, and bridges are being constructed using concrete—a material that allows engineers and architects to explore an infinite variety of forms. Relatively new technologies, including building information modeling (BIM), computer numerical control (CNC) machines, and robotic total stations, are making it possible for engineers, architects, and contractors to rapidly explore options in ways that wouldn’t have been possible a decade ago. At the same time, ongoing research and ACI’s consensus system continue to provide practitioners with the knowledge they need to produce high-quality concrete projects. As a result, the world’s design and building practitioners have recently created absolutely remarkable edifices.

From high-rises to decorative to infrastructure, the depth and breadth of concrete artistry and finesse can be readily seen by all of us as we go about our daily lives, and now is a perfect time to salute innovation and dedication to outstanding concrete construction. So for the first time, ACI will be recognizing exceptional projects for the innovation and engineering marvels they shepherd from concept to reality with a new, global awards program: the ACI Excellence in Concrete Construction Award.

We know that many ACI chapters already have successful concrete design and construction awards programs in place to provide recognition on a local or regional level. By building upon those long-standing regional award programs, the global-level Excellence in Concrete Construction Award program will further the Engagement and Outreach goals and objectives of ACI’s Strategic Plan. The new program will bring together the best of those local and regional winners and highlight the project principals on a larger, international stage. How can this not generate enthusiasm at the chapter level?

While the interest will be immediate within those chapters with in-place awards programs, I expect that the new international program will provide both the opportunity and the incentive for many other chapters to initiate the creation of their own new awards programs. To assist in those efforts, ACI is generating guidelines for chapter officers.

So it’s quite easy to envision how this program has the potential to create opportunities for chapters to not only promote local projects but to also engage concrete professionals in their community who may not have had previous contact or awareness of the local chapter. And for ACI, the chance to be a part of that process and promote increased engagement can be very impactful. As we work toward fostering closer ties and relationships with our chapters, we can expect to gain further insights from more practitioners. To paraphrase an old adage, “All knowledge is local.” If ACI can engage members of the project teams recognized in the new program, their valuable expertise can do nothing but enhance our documents and advance the industry.

In November 2015, at the Fall Convention in Denver, CO, ACI will celebrate the first annual Excellence in Concrete Construction Awards Gala and Dinner to recognize innovation in concrete design and construction around the world. It is anticipated this will be such a grand event that it promises to be one of those “can’t-miss” convention moments. It should be marked on your calendar and input in your e-planner now.

In this issue of CI, you’ll find a short news article with more information and additional details on the entire program. Under the leadership of Chair Michael Paul, the International Project Awards Committee (IPAC) and its four subcommittees are working tirelessly to make this program a truly outstanding success. As you can tell from this memo, I am very excited about the new awards program and hope that all of you also come to be a part of the growing excitement and anticipation of this event. See you there.

William E. Rushing Jr.