This year’s edition of the World of Concrete exceeded expectations and according to organizers was the largest event in over a decade. The annual event registered over 60,000 attendees and more than 1,500 exhibiting companies. It was a smashing success.
One of the key events we attend is a presentation by Ed Sullivan, the Portland Cement Association’s Senior Vice President and Chief Economist. Over the years, he has continually been accurate about the direction of the industry and what contractors should be prepared for over the coming months.
In this month’s issue, our Cover Story features a summary of Mr. Sullivan’s forecast as well as an examination of what you can expect from each of the primary construction markets: residential, non-residential, and public. Turn to page 16 to learn more..
Other highlights of the show this year included the Bob Weatherton Award established by the World of Concrete to honor his contribution to the industry. The award includes a $2,500 scholarship and was presented at the CIM National Board Meeting. This year’s recipient of the Weatherton Award was Paige Silva, who attends California State University - Chico.
Concrete Industry Management (CIM) is a business program that has been developed specifically for the concrete industry to provide students with a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Concrete Industry Management. CIM held its 14th annual unreserved silent and live auctions. The silent and live auctions raised gross revenues of $1.2 million, setting a record for funds raised at WOC.
Wacker Neuson once again held its popular Trowel Challenge competition. As the competition has continued to gain loyalty, many familiar faces returned to compete for the grand prize, a Wacker Neuson eight foot CRT48-37V ride on trowel. Over 100 operators from around the world competed for the fastest time as they maneuvered through the tight turns of the 1,750-sq.-ft. course.
At the conclusion of the tight competition, Manuel Vasquez Flores, ACE Avant, Archdale, N.C. came in first place as he started the final run in sixth place with a qualifying time of 44.137 seconds. With the fastest final run time in the championship heat of 43.383, Manny’s total combined and winning time came in at 87.520 seconds.
Second place was awarded to Chris Thorpe, George J. Shaw Construction, Kansas City, Mo. He came into the final round in third place with a qualifying run time of 43.576. When he ran his final run in 44.321, his finishing total time of 87.897 moved him into second place.
Finally, third place went to Akeo Cuban, Swinerton Builders, Honolulu, Hawaii. He had the second best qualifying time of 43.140, but couldn’t quite hold the second spot, coming in the final run time of 44.952, for a total of 88.098 and a third place finish.
Congratulations to all who participated.
