Concrete Industry Management

Student Learning Outcomes

An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and technology to technical problems     

  1. Calculate areas and volumes for concrete elements
  2. Calculate absolute volumes of concrete ingredients
  3. Perform basic statistical analysis of data
  4. Compute cost estimates for concrete projects
  5. Demonstrate the use of non-destructive testing devices or methods and interpret the results
  6. Explain chemical reactions of cementitious and pozzolanic materials

A knowledge of modern techniques, tools and concrete construction methods

  1. Describe concrete flat work construction practices per ACI standards
  2. Describe common decorative and architectural concrete practices
  3. Recognize and explain concrete and construction equipment and tools and their usage
  4. Use software applicable in concrete construction

An ability to conduct standard tests and experiments and to analyze and interpret data      

  1. Pass ACI Field Technician Grade 1 exam
  2. Conduct basic aggregate quality control experiments
  3. Conduct laboratory tests in accordance with ASTM and ACI procedures
  4. Analyze tests data and interpret the results and their effects on concrete performance

An understanding of principles of concrete production, efficiency and quality management procedures   

  1. Illustrate materials schedule and dispatching routines.
  2. Interpret income statements and balance sheets
  3. Discuss industry standards pertaining to efficiency and quality management practices in concrete production

An ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms and demonstrate effective teamwork skills

  1. Write lab reports
  2. Write technical and business reports
  3. Present project reports to an audience in a professional manner
  4. Participate as an effective team member in group projects
  5. Write an  effective executive summary and present an  “elevator speech”

An understanding of the legal, professional, and ethical responsibilities of the profession

  1. Explain legal responsibilities of concrete producers and concrete contractors as outlined in industry manuals
  2. Identify common legal issues faced by the concrete industry
  3. Discuss the importance of ethical practices on professional and personal development
  4. (All CIM schools cover this in one way or the other, but we are not able to assess this)

An understanding of safe work practices pertaining to the concrete industry and recognition of the importance of a culture of safety

  1. Pass OSHA 30-hour construction safety training course
  2. Pass a safety exam pertaining to concrete laboratory safety practices
  3. Develop a safety strategy promoting a culture of safety in an organization   

An understanding of sustainability and resiliency of the built environment

  1. Explain sustainable practices pertaining to the concrete construction industry
  2. Compare concrete and alternative building materials in terms of sustainability and resiliency
  3. Explain the impact of concrete construction practices on the built environment

A recognition of the need for engagement in professional development

  1. Participate in technical and professional industry associations and related events
  2. Discuss the opportunities for professional development through seminars and trade associations
  3. Complete an internship in the concrete industry
  4. Clearly articulate their career goals and long-term plans

An ability to create concrete mix designs and mix proportions

  1. Create mix designs and proportions for conventional concrete following ACI standards and guidelines
  2. Create mix designs and proportions for specialty concretes

An ability to apply basic accounting, economics, finance, marketing and management principles to create business plans and conduct financial analysis applicable to the concrete industry

  1. Create a business plan for a concrete related business
  2. Develop a technical marketing plan applicable to the concrete industry
  3. Develop a technical sales and pricing plan applicable to the concrete industry
  4. Analyze a concrete market related issue and prepare a benefit cost solution    

An ability to evaluate and analyze technical problems and to develop effective solutions

  1. Explain mechanisms of concrete deterioration and repair concepts and procedures
  2. Evaluate problems in concrete structures and pavements and develop possible solutions
  3. Analyze technical issues in concrete production and identify possible solutions

An ability to utilize project drawings to develop cost estimates for concrete projects

  1. Read and interpret projects drawings and specifications
  2. Perform quantity take off for steel, formwork, and concrete
  3. Develop a cost estimate for placement and finishing concrete projects
  4. Develop a cost estimate for formwork
  5. Prepare a bid for a potential concrete project, and discuss common bidding procedures

An understanding of project scheduling and project management principles

  1. Develop a work schedule for a concrete project
  2. Identify the critical path for a project schedule
  3. Explain differences between different project delivery methods
  4. Explain responsibilities and relationships among stakeholders in construction of concrete projects