CRMCA launched its 2025 Town Hall series with an engaging virtual meeting focused on growth, education, and industry advancement. The session served as both a progress update and a platform for member feedback, demonstrating our shared commitment to continuous improvement and collaboration.
One of the standout successes highlighted was the Southeast Low Carbon Symposium, which drew over 150 attendees and continues to gain recognition as a vital event for our region. The association also celebrated a new milestone: 210 members strong, reflecting the growing impact and reach of CRMCA across the Carolinas.
Key Focus Areas
The meeting zeroed in on pressing industry needs, including driver training and retention, a continued challenge across the ready-mix sector. Discussions also touched on the increasing importance of performance-based specifications, which require more collaboration with general contractors and DOTs. The CRMCA continues to work with the North and South Carolina DOTS through multiple avenues including the upcoming DOT Concrete Training Series each Wednesday in August.
Looking ahead, CRMCA is making strategic moves to enhance educational offerings. Plans are in motion to develop a state-of-the-art classroom at our Charlotte office to host NRMCA-certified courses. Additionally, the Concrete Learning Forum will kick off in Wallace, North Carolina, offering targeted, regional education opportunities.
What’s Next: Action Items
To keep the momentum going, several action steps were identified during the meeting. These initiatives will help guide the association as we strategically shape our role in the industry across the Carolinas.
- Explore CDL Training Solutions – Investigate opportunities to create or support commercial driver’s license (CDL) training programs to address the ongoing driver shortage.
- Launch the CTAC App – Roll out a tool for members to provide real-time feedback to testing labs and support quality control efforts.
- Develop a Training Resource One-Pager – Create a clear, sharable handout outlining all available educational courses and resources for members and non-members.
- Engage with Specifiers – Increase outreach to general contractors and specifying engineers to advocate for performance-based specifications and DOT alignment.
- Distribute Member Resource Packets – Provide members with curated educational materials (e.g., Concrete 101, spec review guides, and training options) they can easily share with their networks.
