Kentucky Construction Professionals Team Up to Host ICF Training, Tour

Late last month, the Kentucky Concrete Association (KCA), the Kentucky ACI chapter and the Insulating Concrete Forms Manufacturers Association (ICF-MA) hosted an insulated concrete forms (ICF) symposium with guest speakers along with a concurrent installation training event. The event was also accompanied with a tour of a nearby Drury Inn & Suites where the exterior walls were made with ICF. The purpose of the event was to enhance the construction infrastructure to build with ICFs; they are quickly becoming the method of choice for all forms of construction due to speed and safe construction, operation maintenance and energy savings, resilience, sound control and building insurance discounts. These benefits are creating ICF project demand, so training to deliver a knowledgeable contractor workforce which can augment its portfolio of construction services is critical. Nearly 100 architects, engineers, concrete contractors and ready mixed concrete producers were in attendance and offered continuing education credits and AIA credits following completion of the event.

“The energy and environmental benefits of using systems like ICFs are clear,” said Kevin Lawlor, spokesperson for Build With Strength. “It is important as an industry leader that we engage on efforts that make a positive impact in the community and on the environment. The state of Kentucky has a forward-thinking approach to the future of construction and should be applauded for its efforts. We look forward to continued partnership and hope that other states take a similar approach.”

Randy White of ICF-MA/Nudura (left) addresses participants on the benefits and anatomy of an ICF block. Kenny Stanfield of SCB Architects (center) discusses success stories of net zero energy ICF schools in Kentucky. At right, Scott Peterson of Drury Southwest, Inc. showed audience members how the hotel was constructed.

Build With Strength has recently partnered with ICF-MA and launched ICF contractor training. The training is driven locally by NRMCA state affiliates and is targeting concrete contractors, framers, masons and other tradespersons who will learn the techniques to expand their construction services portfolio and be more competitive in today’s construction environment.

As part of the Build With Strength campaign, NRMCA promotes sustainable concrete solutions for buildings. For more information, contact Derek Torres at dtorres@nrmca.org or 973-876-0938.