Engineer and industry educator recognized for decades of technical leadership and association service
Jeff Speck, P.E., joins the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association Hall of Fame following an induction ceremony last month, during the Awards Luncheon and General Session at the 2026 CMHA Midyear Meeting.
CMHA recognized Speck for more than four decades of advancing concrete masonry through engineering, technical leadership, education and service to the association and the industry.
Terri Grulke, Director of Corporate Advertising for Besser Company, introduced a tribute video chronicling Speck’s career, from his early interest in engineering to his lifelong commitment to strengthening the concrete masonry industry through technical excellence, education and leadership.
“Every Hall of Fame inductee earns their place in a different way,” said Terri Grulke as she introduced Speck. “Some become known for their technical expertise, others for their leadership, others for the time they willingly give to make our industry stronger. Jeff Speck is one of those rare people who earned his place in all those ways,” she added.
Accepting the honor, Speck reflected on what it means to join the distinguished group of industry leaders recognized by the CMHA Hall of Fame.
“Will Rogers said, ‘A man only learns by two things. One is reading, and the other is associating with smarter people,’” Speck told the audience. “That’s what NCMA was for me. It allowed me to surround myself with smarter people that knew more than I did and helped me grow because of it. So, thank you all very much. This honor is more than I can say. I just appreciate every one of you, and I appreciate the opportunity that you’ve given me. Thank you very much,” he added.
Technical Leadership
Beyond his professional career, Speck became one of the national association’s most respected technical leaders.
In 2002, CMHA’s predecessor, the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA), selected him to chair its newly expanded Design and Construction Subcommittee. In that role, he helped guide research, codes and standards activities, technical publications and engineering resources.
Three years later, Speck chaired a joint task force involving the national association, the Expanded Shale, Clay & Slate Institute (ESCSI) and the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA). The group developed a national strategy supporting lightweight concrete masonry.
Speck also chaired the NCMA Convention Committee, previously led the Codes and Standards and Masonry Design and Construction subcommittees, and contributed to numerous technical and sustainability initiatives.
The association continued to call on him for major programs, including NCMA’s 100th Anniversary celebration in 2018.
Speck remained a strong advocate for meaningful association involvement, encouraging engineers and associate members to contribute their expertise rather than simply attend meetings.
“Know that you have something to offer,” Speck advised new members. “Make your voice heard and help improve the association.”
Advancing Concrete Masonry
Speck’s technical work produced lasting advances for the industry.
He helped develop and validate certified fire-rated concrete masonry mix designs through full-scale testing with UL.
Later, he supported research and field applications involving internal curing with prewetted lightweight aggregate. His efforts helped move engineering concepts from research into practical applications for bridges, water-storage structures and other infrastructure projects.
A Career of Education
Speck developed that expertise over a career spanning more than four decades.
After beginning in structural engineering, he joined the Portland Cement Association, where he conducted engineering seminars throughout the Southeast.
He later helped establish the Concrete Masonry Institute of Georgia and promote concrete masonry for commercial and multifamily construction.
Speck spent more than three decades with Big River Industries and its successor companies. He ultimately retired from Arcosa Lightweight after becoming one of the industry’s most respected technical educators and advocates.
Lasting Connections
Reflecting on his years with the national association, Speck said the relationships he built remain among the most rewarding parts of his career.
“The people are what made it gratifying,” he said. “That’s the thing I miss most about being retired.”
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About CMHA
The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) represents the manufacturers, suppliers and professionals behind concrete masonry, segmental concrete pavements, manufactured stone veneer, segmental retaining walls and other hardscape systems across North America. CMHA serves as a central resource for the industry, supporting its members through education, technical guidance, research, advocacy, industry expertise and collaboration.