2026 Annual Meeting Recap

ICPI Foundation Highlights 

Trustees approved $818,138 in new funding, including: 

– Phase II of the Mechanistic-Empirical Design Tool for ICP Field Confirmation 

– Online training of manufacturing concepts for masonry and hardscapes products (joint with NCMA Foundation) 

– Block & Hardscapes Promoters Workshop (joint with NCMA Foundation) 

Additionally, ​t​rustees reviewed emerging research opportunities related to stormwater quality and microplastics mitigation, reinforcing leadership in sustainable pavement solutions. 

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NCMA Foundation Highlights 

The NCMA Foundation approved nine new projects totaling $444,295. The following projects indicate the areas where the foundation is investing: 

– Lightweight masonry grout studies 

– Ballistics testing of concrete masonry assemblies 

– Use of concrete masonry shear walls in Type IV-C ​c​onstruction 

– Developing a masonry research strategic road map 

– Continued investment in interns and education initiatives 

– Online training of manufacturing concepts for masonry and hardscapes products (joint with ICPI Foundation) 

– Block & Hardscapes Promoters Workshop (joint with ICPI Foundation) 

These approvals reflect a coordinated strategy to strengthen masonry and hardscapes systems across research, promotion and workforce development. 

Certification Committee 

The Certification Committee advanced several key initiatives, including updated exams for CMHA’s certification courses by the end of Q1 2026 and refining renewal policies to improve clarity and engagement. The committee is exploring interest in a company-level certification along with updates to CMHA’s CEU criteria and pricing structures to better support professional development. 

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Education Committee 

The Education Committee endorsed updates to core paver, SRW and MSV installer and specialist courses and supported development of new offerings, including a potential Rooftop Paver Installer ​​c​​ourse. Efforts continue to modernize content, expand e​-l​earning opportunities and strengthen instructor training, ensuring CMHA education remains relevant and accessible across North America. 

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Government Affairs Committee 

Advocacy remained a strong focus, with continued progress on resilience policy initiatives and expanded DOT outreach efforts in support of increased use and recognition of segmental and permeable pavement systems by slate agencies across multiple states. The committee also reviewed federal appropriations language supporting effective use of Checkoff resources and discussed strategies to strengthen political engagement and member advocacy. 

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​​Hardscapes Committee 

Hardscape leaders supported advancing the efforts to develop a year-round engagement model for contractors through the Hardscape North America brand to provide engagement opportunities beyond the annual show. Technical subcommittees continue progressing research integration, software updates and industry guidance documents, while marketing efforts remain focused on workforce development and digital outreach initiatives. 

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Segmental Pavement Technical Subcommittee 

The subcommittee focused on integrating open-graded base research into training and technical guidance while reviewing updates related to compaction protocols and CO2 sequestration efforts. Members also advanced work on stormwater modeling resources and related technical tools. 

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SRW Technical Subcommittee 

The subcommittee continued progress on updates to the SRW Design Manual and Top of Wall guidance on crash barrier loading research. Task groups continue advancing research and working on new research, such as alternative structural fill and multi-depth gravity wall design considerations. Discussions also addressed standard updates and efforts to enhance industry education. 

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Hardscapes Marketing Subcommittee 

The subcommittee concentrated on workforce development and digital outreach, including strategic direction for HardscapingIs.com. Members emphasized aligning marketing initiatives with broader strategic planning to ensure consistent, effective industry messaging. 

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Hardscapes Construction Subcommittee 

The subcommittee advanced several contractor-focused initiatives, including publication of updated technical resources (PAV-TEC-014, PAV-TEC-020 and the Edge Restraint Performance report), release of new FAQs, formation of a resin sand task group, and action on certification and contractor directory improvements. Members also endorsed contractor engagement strategies and discussed restructuring the Residential Specialist course to better align with field needs, reinforcing CMHA’s focus on practical, contractor-driven solutions. 

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Canadian Hardscape Activities Subcommittee 

The outcomes of the subcommittee meeting, which took place in November 2025 in Montreal, were reported across applicable committees, strengthening Canadian member engagement and representation across CMHA committees. Plans are underway for continued municipal outreach, symposium opportunities and participation in key Canadian industry events. The group also reviewed sponsorship engagement and strategies to address uniquely Canadian market needs. 

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Commercial Hardscapes Solutions Community Subcommittee 

The group reviewed ongoing Foundation research projects and updated its needs assessment planning for the Midyear Meeting. Discussions centered on identifying priority technical challenges and ensuring commercial segment concerns are reflected in future research and program development. 

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​​Masonry Committee 

The Masonry Committee advanced education, research and promotional initiatives, including approval to hold the Block & Hardscapes Promoters Conference in ​s​pring 2027 as well as a new masonry education concept for 2027 to train sales personnel to deliver education to architects and designers. Technical subcommittees continue work on updated codes, standards, EPD enhancements and industry guidance to strengthen masonry’s competitive position in the marketplace. 

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CMU Marketing Subcommittee 

The subcommittee discussed strategic alignment between CMHA initiatives and CMU Checkoff marketing efforts, with consideration given to future structural adjustments. The committee also reviewed ongoing promotional initiatives designed to strengthen concrete masonry’s market position and increase awareness among architects and designers. 

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MSV Marketing Subcommittee 

The subcommittee continued expanding digital content efforts, including blog development and outreach planning to reach architects and specifiers. Task groups are refining strategies to enhance visibility of manufactured stone veneer systems while maintaining alignment with broader masonry marketing priorities. 

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CMU Technical Subcommittee 

The subcommittee discussed ongoing research initiatives related to thermal performance, functional recovery relative to seismic events, and carbon sequestration. They approved an updated Tech Note on fire safety and reviewed efforts related to updating the Product Category Rule for manufactured concrete products and the plan for ballistics testing of concrete masonry assemblies. 

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MSV Technical Subcommittee  

The subcommittee approved substantial updates to the MSV Installation Guide to align it with current codes and standards, as well as changes to ASTM installation standards for adhered veneers. They also discussed future updates to adhered veneer details and the successful pilot of a new hands-on MSV installation course. 

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Membership & Meetings Committee 

The committee reviewed strategies to enhance member engagement and brand awareness while maintaining strong event experiences. Discussions included meeting scheduling flexibility, continued presence at World of Concrete and expanding the Concrete Women Connect community. 

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Dues & Bylaws Committee  

The committee recommended forming a special committee to explore hardscape contractor development through Hardscape North America and continued reviewing long-term dues structure strategies to ensure financial sustainability without recommending changes for FY27. 

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HNA Steering Committee  

Planning continues for future HNA growth, including enhancements such as the “Ask the Expert” concept and early exploration of an expansion in engagement of hardscape contractors through the Hardscape North America brand beyond its current annual trade show. The committee also began preparing for the show’s 20th anniversary and evaluating long-term venue and co-location strategies. 

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Concrete Women Connect 

A reception event brought together 34 women from across the industry for networking and a focused session on practical travel strategies and safety tips. The presentation sparked meaningful discussion as attendees shared real-world insights and everyday tips they can immediately apply. Dedicated programs like Concrete Women Connect continue to provide a professional forum where women can connect and collaborate with peers and actively contribute to the future of the industry. 

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Contractor Meet-Up 

The Contractor Meet-Up provided a dedicated, casual space for hardscape contractors (both members and nonmembers) to connect, share perspectives and learn more about CMHA. Designed as a grassroots outreach effort, the session helped dispel misconceptions, highlight available resources and create an environment where contractor voices could be heard without formality or pressure. 

Conversations centered on membership value, representation and how CMHA can better support contractors of all sizes. Attendees left with a clearer understanding of the association’s direction and a renewed commitment to strengthening contractor engagement, collaboration and proactive industry leadership. 

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Emerging Professionals Group (EPG) 

EPG provided a dynamic space for rising leaders to connect, share ideas and engage more intentionally within CMHA. Discussions focused on career growth, leadership development, innovation and mentorship, with participants feeling energized by the shared challenges and opportunities facing the industry. 

Attendees left with expanded professional networks across producers, contractors and suppliers — along with a renewed sense of purpose and ownership in shaping the future of concrete masonry and hardscapes. By investing in emerging professionals today, CMHA is actively building the leadership pipeline that will carry the industry forward tomorrow.