In December 2025, the ACPA Foundation Board of Directors approved $41,000 in funding for three impactful projects that reflect our mission to advance the concrete pavement industry through innovation, education and sustainability. These grants are enabling both top-tier academic research and targeted leadership development across our community.
Investing in innovation: 2025 grant awards
The largest grant supports a groundbreaking research initiative at the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub. Titled “Market Dynamics of Competing Paving Materials: Quantifying the Cross-Price Effects of Increased Design and Procurement Alternatives,” this project investigates how evolving market and procurement options impact pavement costs and long-term sustainability. By developing a predictive model grounded in rigorous analysis, this research will offer new tools for industry leaders, government agencies and academic partners to make strategic, sustainable infrastructure decisions. The insights generated will guide future material selection and help position the concrete industry at the forefront of innovation and environmental stewardship.
The Board also allocated funds for two Emerging Leaders educational workshops to be hosted by the ACPA chapters in Pennsylvania (2026) and South Dakota (2027). These professional development programs are designed to strengthen the pipeline of industry leaders at the local level, providing early career professionals with structured education, mentorship and networking opportunities. By focusing on technical skills, leadership development and peer-to-peer learning, these workshops foster a culture of inclusive workforce growth and community engagement. Participants will receive guidance from established professionals and gain practical tools needed to address current and future industry challenges.
These targeted investments underscore the Foundation’s commitment to building both technical excellence and strong leadership. By supporting strategic research and professional development, we are laying a foundation for industry-wide advancement and lasting impact.
2025 in review: Milestones and momentum
Our accomplishments in 2025 were driven by the generosity of donors, the enthusiasm of our emerging leaders and the collaborative spirit of our members. The Emerging Leaders Group (ELG) provided early career professionals with platforms for growth, holding events such as the second annual 5K Fun Run and a December community service project at Pine Avenue Park Community Garden in Carlsbad, California. The group’s dedication to professional development was on display during sessions on business acumen and leadership communication, and we proudly recognized Rob Kish as the first Emerging Leader of the Year for his outstanding contributions.
Fundraising efforts reached new heights, thanks to a successful silent auction that raised $24,000 and additional direct donations and pledges bringing the total year-end fundraising to $46,000. The generosity of our community ensures the continued support of mentorship programs, research grants and workforce advancement. Auction proceeds are already making a measurable difference, funding vital programs that benefit both veteran and emerging professionals.
Shaping the future: The Foundation’s lasting impact
Every dollar invested by our supporters delivers direct benefits to the industry—whether through technical research that informs national best practices or through workshops that launch future leaders. By funding the MIT research project and Emerging Leaders workshops, your contributions are supporting the industry’s journey towards sustainability, knowledge sharing and leadership continuity.
The achievements and new initiatives from 2025 serve as clear evidence of what our community can accomplish together. Innovative research, dynamic education programs and authentic mentorship opportunities are key to our mission. As we look ahead, ongoing engagement and financial support will be crucial as we continue to expand our impact.
How you can help pave the way
We invite you to partner with us for another successful year:
- Attend an event: Join us at upcoming Emerging Leaders workshops or connect at the ACPA Mid-Year Meeting.
- Mentor the next generation: Share your experience and play an active role in developing new leaders.
- Apply for funding: Academic and industry professionals are encouraged to submit research and program proposals for Foundation grant consideration.
- Donate: Make a single gift or establish recurring support to propel future research, education and leadership programs.
Thank you for your commitment to our shared goals. Together, we are building lasting value in the concrete pavement industry.