If you had told me 2021 would in many ways be more challenging than 2020, I wouldn’t have believed you. But the ready-mix industry is delivering on its promise to always test us. Whether it be labor constraints or supply shortages, our industry is faced with overcoming challenging headwinds. I’m grateful that the CRMCA continues to work behind the scenes to strengthen our mission, and provide the products that make Colorado a better place to live. As we set our sights on the second half of the year, it’s important to rally around industry initiatives like Build with Strength and the Concrete Testing Adherence Collaboration (CTAC). “Stronger Together” isn’t something we just talk about at the CRMCA. Here’s an update on what we’ve been up to:
June Networking Event
- CRMCA and CSSGA joined forces and held our first full in-person event since the start of the pandemic. To say that folks were excited to network is an understatement. Over 60 people attended the event at the Ace Eat & Serve on what was a beautiful summer evening. To see members and talk with people in person was truly refreshing. Thanks to all our sponsors and those who came out for the evening. This was the first of many more networking events to come!
Summer Conference
- Next up is our Summer Conference. This year’s event is scheduled for August 12-13 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Vail, and EagleVail Golf Course. This will be our first year we partner with CSSGA for a summer event. It will begin with Board of Director meetings the afternoon of Aug 12, followed by the first annual Rock & Roll Race!!! Yes, there are advantages to inviting the rock guys! While we normally work together on industry related issues, Thursday evening will be a head-to-head competition to see if you have the Fastest Rock in Colorado. Just bring your 1 inch or smaller rock, or pick from one we supply, and get in line for the race track. We will also golf on Friday and have a dinner function Friday evening. It will be a great event to get back in action, so make plans to attend! Details are available here.
ACI Full Sessions resume
- ACI Certifications will resume full classes in mid-August. CDOT’s 10-person facility limit was lifted, again allowing for larger gatherings. We thank CDOT for their guidance and partnership, and welcome the opportunity to certify more technicians with this change.
CTAC National Launch
- Many of you are aware of and participate in CTAC. Designed to improve concrete testing accuracy and accountability, we are currently in the process of expanding this program across the US and Canada. After receiving a grant from the RMC Research Foundation, we are pleased to report the IT development and associated training programs are underway. On July 22 we held our first Task Force meeting with national partners. We updated the group on progress and solicited feedback, ensuring a truly collaborative effort. Thanks to the RMC Foundation and NRMCA for their support and guidance. We’ll continue to provide updates as we move the program forward.
As always, thank you for your support of the CRMCA. I hope to see you all at an upcoming event. Until then, enjoy Summer and stay safe.
Cole Jacobs, Martin Marietta
Board President, Colorado Ready Mixed Concrete Association
