The American Concrete Institute Concrete Convention is the premier gathering for professionals committed to advancing concrete materials, design, construction, and repair. It brings together globally recognized leaders and eager learners looking to expand their knowledge and impact the future of the industry. The ACI Fall 2024 Convention will be located in Philadelphia, Pennslyvania, November 3-6.
To recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in the concrete industry, the "Women in Concrete Panel," sponsored by Chryso (part of Saint-Gobain Construction Chemicals) brings together diverse professionals to share insights on innovations, industry trends, and personal development. Attendees will hear inspiring stories, have the opportunity to network with industry leaders and emerging talent, and explore how women are shaping the future of construction. The panel is scheduled for November 4, 2024, from 1-3 pm Eastern.
Panelists include:
- Michelle Wilson, Senior Director of Concrete Technology and Industry Outreach & Support, Portland Cement Association: Ms. Wilson has over 25 years of experience relating to concrete materials, specifications, performance, troubleshooting and repair. She is the primary author of PCA’s "Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures."
- Dr. Christine Fiori, Program Director of Construction Management, Drexel University: Prior to joining Drexel in 2015, Ms. Fiori served as the Preston and Catharine White Fellow and Associate Director of the Myers-Lawson School of Construction at Virginia Tech. Her interest in ancient construction led to a National Science Foundation grant to explore the construction techniques of the Inca.
- Alana Guzzetta, National Research Lab Manager, Vulcan Materials: Ms. Guzzetta has worked in the lab since 2011, testing and vetting new materials for use in concrete ready-mix. She collaborates with architects, engineers and sustainability consultants to develop concrete specifications that are performance-based and incorporate achievable embodied carbon goals.
- Andrea Lebed, Concrete Admixtures Development Manager, Chryso North America: Ms. Lebed has over 12 years of experience in polymer centric product development in various specialty chemical industries; paints, inkjet colorants, and now concrete admixtures. She has been a champion for sustainability, innovating new pathways to reduce CO2 in the construction industry.
- Madeleine Murphree, Staff Engineer at J. Lloyd Engineering: Ms. Murphree recently graduated from the University of Florida with a Master's in Civil Engineering. Her research focused on concrete shrinkage and test method development.
"This panel is a powerful platform to highlight the incredible impact women are making in the concrete industry,” said Chryso North America Sustainability Program Manager Lisa Barnard. “We are on a collective journey to pioneer the future of construction. It’s critical that we share our backgrounds to set new standards and help move the industry forward. We are thrilled to be a part of the conversation on how to foster inclusivity, sustainability, innovation and leadership for future generations."
