The Southeast Concrete Masonry Association (SCMA) Foundation is dedicated to advancing and supporting the concrete masonry and hardscape industry through various educational initiatives. Here are some of their key activities:
Educational Programs: They develop and deliver presentations, workshops, and hands-on demonstrations for architects, engineers, and academic institutions to foster safer construction practices.
Public Awareness: They promote the benefits of resilient and sustainable construction using concrete masonry and hardscape products through increased educational outreach to the general public.
Community-Based Programs: They implement programs aimed at raising awareness about building stronger and safer communities.
The foundation also offers scholarships, such as the Dr. Richard Bennett Engineering Scholarship Program and the Paul LaVene Architecture Scholarship Program, to support students pursuing degrees in engineering and architecture.
Below is a summary of its key activities:
1. Educational Programs
The Foundation concentrates on developing and delivering educational content aimed at professional communities, including universities, AIA chapters, CSI chapters, and SEA chapters within the building industry. This includes:
- Presentations: Informative sessions designed to enhance general masonry knowledge, current trends, and advancements in concrete masonry.
- Workshops/Symposiums: Interactive learning experiences intended to improve the skills and knowledge of construction professionals with masonry.
- Hands-on Demonstrations: Practical demonstrations to exhibit best practices for safer and more effective construction techniques. These initiatives target architects, engineers, and academic institutions to promote safer and more efficient construction practices.
2. Public Awareness
The Foundation advocates for the benefits of resilient and sustainable construction by:
- Enhancing Public Outreach: Initiatives focus on informing the public about the long-term advantages of concrete masonry and hardscape products.
- Emphasis on Sustainability: Emphasizing the role these materials play in developing robust, environmentally sustainable buildings and communities.
3. Community-Based Programs
The Foundation collaborates directly with communities to elevate awareness about:
- Safer Construction: Educating local populations on the significance of using robust building materials.
- Stronger Communities: Executing initiatives that foster community development through concrete masonry and hardscape solutions.
Through these comprehensive efforts, the SCMA Foundation aims to enhance the overall understanding of best practices in masonry construction, improve public knowledge of resilient materials, and expand masonry expertise within universities. Additionally, the Foundation seeks to identify research opportunities that address the evolving needs of the industry.
SCMAF Board of Directors
The board of directors serves as the governing body of the nonprofit organization, in accordance with state and federal regulations. This board is responsible for ensuring that the organization fulfills its mission and adheres to the conditions of its tax-exempt status.
President, Jody Wall
jwall@stalite.com
704.650.8281
Vice President, Gary Hensley
gary.hensley@oldcastle.com
864.590.9273
Treasurer, Neal Ragsdale
neal.ragsdale@chandlerconcrete.com
434.548.5368
Secretary, Steve Hotchkiss
shotchkiss@van-smith.com
843.871.2199