Updates from Cory

 

Executive Director Update, July 2026

Staff Updates 

Ryan is working hard to build a solid relationship with Local 528. We’re close to finalizing an agreement to use their facility for Pervious and Field Certifications—stay tuned for schedule details. Great work, Ryan! 

Mary continues to streamline messaging, tidy up the website, manage invoices and accounting, and ensure you’re getting better information faster and easier. Let’s give her a well-deserved round of applause!

WACA Emerging Leaders Fund

Applications are now reviewed year-round! You may view & print the application HERE. This fund supports:

    • Individuals seeking internships or employment in Washington's aggregate, concrete, or cement industries.
    • Employees of member companies, WA ACI chapters, or affiliated student chapters.

Got needs in mind? Reach out to staff for details!

Summer Meeting Highlights

Wow — what a fantastic Summer Meeting! If you joined me at Gamble Sands on Friday, thank you for bringing the energy. It was incredible to reconnect with so many familiar faces and make new connections. The sunshine was out, spirits were high, and yes, we were the first group to take a swing at Scarecrow, their newest course!

Our Friday night BBQ came alive with a rocking performance by Whiskey Trail. And just when you thought we’d peaked… Saturday brought over 70 Wiffle Ball champions and a sold-out Presidents’ Banquet that delivered in style. Between stellar fundraising, plenty of laughter, and Jim Borgen stealing the show once again as auctioneer extraordinaire, it was unforgettable. Hats off to Jim!

WACA Board Meeting and Committee Update Highlights

Here's what's new and notable:

  1. Quarterly Board Meetings Now Open!
  2. Members are now welcome to attend all quarterly board meetings, including those held at the Winter Workshop and Summer Meeting. Join these conversations, enhance your education, and help shape our future.
  3. Your new Board of Directors

We thank those who are stepping down for their hard work and commitment, and we welcome our newest leaders with excitement and optimism!

Our dedicated committees are keeping the wheels turning:

  • Environmental is deep in discussions with DOE over the Sand & Gravel General Permit. If the draft doesn't shift, we're gearing up for an appeal.
  • Government Affairs is strengthening relationships with agencies and lawmakers as we build toward the next session's goals.
  • Technical is collaborating with WSDOT to improve materials acceptance, E-ticketing, and meeting formats for sharper communication and faster outcomes.

And guess what? We've got two new committees hitting the ground running:

  • Sustainability Committee – Championing education and outreach to regulators and industry leaders on current advancements and challenges.
  • Membership & Marketing Committee – Spreading the word about our work, value, and benefits with outreach that shines.
A Measured Step on Membership Dues
 

The Board approved a 3% dues increase based on key pricing indexes—our goal? Smooth out big jumps and keep pace with inflation so there are fewer surprises!

Click [here] to explore an insightful visual representation that illustrates our income, expenses, and staff time. Learn how each element contributes to our mission and how your support helps in shaping a brighter future for our industry.

Where Does Your Money Go? A Visual of WACA's Budget

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 Member Visits!

Upcoming visits

  • August 12, 2025, with Derek Hergenhein, Amrize

Past visits

April 17, 2025, David Freels, Freels Sand and Gravel

April 16, 2025, Bill TraegerAsh Grove Cement Co.

December 9, 2024, Jon Hart, Washington Rock Quarries