Concrete Boot Camp Spurs Maryland Ready Mix Companies to Action

It has been just over two months since the Maryland Ready Mix Concrete Association (MRMCA) hosted its Concrete Promotion Boot Camp at NRMCA’s training center in Silver Spring, MD. MRMCA Executive Director Tom Evans reports that some of the attendees heard the message loud and clear. According to Evans, two ready mix producers partnered to make a call on a county public works director last week about local streets and roads.

"The county official was asked if he would consider including a concrete pavement specification in the county roads manual and he said ‘YES’, " reported Evans. "They also asked if he had any paving projects coming up where we might be able to submit a concrete alternate and, again, he said, ‘YES.’ In fact, he said there are two projects ready to be let for bid and he welcomed an alternate concrete design on both projects."

            

The intent of the Boot Camp was to encourage attendees to focus more on pavement promotion (parking lots and streets & local roads) in order to increase their production and become less dependent on the residential construction market. NRMCA Senior Director of National Resources Phil Kresge served as the "drill sergeant" for the Boot Camp, introducing the "recruits" to the many NRMCA resources available. Particular focus was given to the Design Assistance Program (DAP). "It would appear that someone was listening," said Kresge. "It just goes to show what can happen when you step outside your comfort zone. I believe this is just what Tom had in mind when he planned the event."

            

Evans is reaching out to other Boot Camp graduates to report on their progress since the event. "Please let me know if you have had any similar experiences with a county official, with a parking lot owner/designer, or with a local street or road project," Evans asked. He adds that MRMCA and NRMCA assistance is available on request.