The ACA Blended Cements Workshop (in partnership with NRMCA, ASCC, and CRMCA) recently brought together more than 50 industry professionals in Kannapolis, NC for a highly collaborative discussion focused on the future of blended cements and cross-sector alignment across the concrete construction industry. Hosted with the objective of strengthening communication and practical understanding between material suppliers, producers, contractors, and industry stakeholders, the workshop highlighted the importance of collaboration as blended cement adoption continues to expand across the Southeast.

CRMCA members played a key role by providing real-world perspectives from multiple points within the construction value chain. Eric Koehler of Titan America shared the cement industry perspective, discussing evolving blended cement technologies and innovation’s role in supporting both performance and sustainability goals. Adam Neuwald of Concrete Supply Company offered the ready mixed producer perspective, emphasizing operational considerations, mix consistency, and the importance of quality control and customer communication as new materials integrate into production.

Chad Hensley and John Ashworth of Wayne Brothers provided the contractor perspective, sharing practical lessons learned in the field regarding project team communication best practices, constructability, placement, finishing, and project coordination. Their discussion emphasized that successfully implementing blended cements while maintaining quality and schedule expectations depends on communication between producers, contractors, and project teams. Collectively, the workshop reinforced that successful blended cement implementation depends on strong interdisciplinary communication, realistic expectations, and continued industry education across all sectors of the built environment.

A special thank you to Michelle Wilson for her efforts on bringing this workshop to the Carolinas!