News Detail

What a Journey it's Been

3/1/2015

Well, it is almost "my time"—the time when I conclude my term as ACI President. It is truly a humbling experience to be able to speak on behalf of all the people who make up ACI. In my travels this past year, the worldwide respect and admiration I've seen for our products, services, codes, and standards is beyond description. I have met so many truly remarkable people that this past year has created a lifetime of memories and also new friendships. But more than all of that, it was the opportunity to represent all that we as members of ACI represent.

When I traveled or met with organizations and partners, we were all there. Each of you was there, side by side with me, speaking with a united passion. And I cannot thank all of you enough for that opportunity to represent ACI.

It has often been stated to me that I am just the temporary captain of the ship and my primary function is to care for our ship and keep it pointed in the right direction. So the goals of an ACI President are often a continuation of the goals of Past Presidents as much as they are new, immediate goals. And so, while many of our goals for the year have been accomplished, many others are ongoing and will continue to be addressed. I do believe we have made some exceptional progress into the future by advancing our strategic plan.

This past year, we have made such strong advances in the area of technical collaboration and cooperation with international partners and concrete-related organizations, which should benefit concrete professionals around the world. The just-launched ACI University is a new concept that we hope will be of interest to all concrete professionals seeking educational information wherever they may be.

Our current initiatives to evaluate member benefits and develop a new model should provide us a solid future of volunteers. And new programs under development to engage our chapter members should continue to make ACI relevant in communities around the world. Developing these initiatives and implementing the goals of engagement, outreach, structure, and leadership that comprise our Strategic Plan would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of our active committee members and the work of the always diligent ACI staff. I extend my sincere thanks to you all.

During my term as President, the wisdom, guidance, and support from the current Executive Committee has been remarkable. Their friendship has been even more noteworthy. But all things do come to an end. Past President Anne Ellis, of AECOM, will leave the Executive Committee. While her perspective will be missed by those remaining on the committee, I have no doubt she will continue to be a valued contributor to the Institute.

And then our new captain will take the helm. Sharon Wood, of the University of Texas at Austin, will become our next President at the conclusion of The ACI Concrete Convention and Exposition in Kansas City, MO. Over the last few years, I have come to see how great she will be in that role, bringing her technical background and knowledge as key components to her anticipated success. But even more than that, as we have worked together, I have had the honor of knowing her as a friend. And right behind her is Mike Schneider of Baker Concrete Construction Co., who will continue to bring his experience as a Contractor to the Executive Committee. And joining us on the Executive Committee will be Khaled Awad of ACTS, who will be starting his term as Vice President. As our first Vice President from outside the Americas, he will certainly bring a new outlook and valuable insights to ACI as we continue to broaden our international reach.

Lastly, I also want to express my gratitude and thanks to my lovely wife Sheila for her support over this last year. She has been so supportive and understanding of the commitments and time involved. And again, I want to thank everyone for the opportunities of the past year—but more importantly, the opportunity to represent ACI.

William E. Rushing Jr.