FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. (Feb. 3, 2017) – In conjunction with the Women in Concrete Alliance (WICA), the American Concrete Institute (ACI) will host a Workforce Innovation Summitat the upcoming Concrete Convention and Exposition in Detroit, Michigan, on March 29.
 
Addressing the question, “Do we have the right labor force for the jobs that will exist in 10 years?” attendees will learn about an effective diversity strategy – what is working and what is hurting progress. The session will provide attendees with an understanding of actions that can be taken to drive progress in organizations.  
 
In addition to a keynote session as well as roundtable forums led by Pam Jeffords, a partner at Mercer and a global expert on diversity and inclusion in the workplace, the morning will include commentary and insight from industry leaders related to key issues facing the concrete industry including:
 
The session will also include an update from Sefla Naomi Fuhrman on her recent doctoral research focused on women in nontraditional occupations, specifically the concrete-construction industry. She will share why women’s participation remains low, discuss tactics to address the shortage, as well as examples of support for women.        
 
Registration is required for this free event, organized by WICA and sponsored by ACI and Baker Concrete Construction. Use the promo code WICA. The event is designed for all levels of the concrete industry and both men and women are encouraged to attend as strategies to drive innovation, revenue and profit are for everyone. 
 
“Building on the success of similar gatherings in South America, the Women in Concrete Alliance Steering Committee is excited to be able to host an event for the concrete industry that shares insight on today’s changing workforce,” said Kimberly Kayler, WICA co-founder and ACI Board of Direction member. “Through the sponsorship of the American Concrete Institute and Baker Concrete Construction, we have been able to assemble leading-edge speakers that will not only educate but provide practical guidance on how to thrive in today’s global workplace environment.” 
 
For more information,  visit womeninconcretealliance.org.