Association Highlights | Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association

Recognizing the 2025 IRMCA Developing Concrete Leaders

Written by IRMCA | February 17, 2026

The Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association is proud to recognize the graduates of the 2025 Developing Concrete Leaders program, a leadership initiative designed to strengthen the future of Indiana’s ready mix concrete industry. Honored during the 2026 IRMCA Winter Mixer, these individuals represent a new generation of leaders who have invested in their growth, their teams, and the long term success of our industry.

The Developing Concrete Leaders program reflects IRMCA’s commitment to cultivating talent, encouraging leadership development, and supporting professionals who are ready to take on greater responsibility within their organizations. Through education, collaboration, and self-reflection, the 2025 cohort demonstrated a clear dedication to learning and leadership.

About the IRMCA DCL Program

Launched in Spring 2025, the IRMCA Developing Concrete Leaders program was created to equip emerging industry professionals with essential leadership knowledge, skills, and confidence. Developed through months of planning and delivered in partnership with the IU Indianapolis Office of Community Engagement, the program provided a comprehensive leadership training experience tailored specifically to the ready mix concrete industry.

The program was designed for individuals who aspire to grow within their companies and take on leadership roles. Participants engaged in expert led instruction, hands on learning, and meaningful peer discussion, all while building relationships that extend beyond the classroom. IRMCA’s goal was simple but impactful: Prepare leaders who can strengthen their organizations and help move the industry forward.

Program Structure and Learning Experience

The 2025 Developing Concrete Leaders program consisted of four in person sessions held throughout the year in Indianapolis. Each session focused on practical leadership principles and real world application, with no virtual option to ensure full engagement and collaboration.

The program began with You Are a Leader Part I, introducing foundational leadership concepts such as self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and credibility. The second session, You Are a Leader Part II, expanded on leadership behaviors, decision making, resilience, trust building, and strategic thinking.

Participants then moved into Leading Teams Effectively, where the focus shifted to communication, conflict resolution, accountability, and innovation within teams. The program concluded with Leadership in Action, a hands-on case study experience that allowed participants to apply leadership principles to real world scenarios.

In addition to classroom learning, participants took part in IRMCA facilitated networking dinners and attended Concrete Professionals of Indiana Committee Meetings. These experiences reinforced the importance of relationship building and industry involvement as core components of effective leadership.

Distinguished Instruction and Academic Partnership

Developing Concrete Leaders was led by experienced faculty from IU Indianapolis, bringing academic expertise and practical insight into every session. Instruction was provided by professionals from the Kelley School of Business and the Tobias Leadership Center, ensuring a high level of credibility and relevance.

Facilitators included senior lecturers, associate professors, and leadership center directors who specialize in management, organizational development, operations, and community engagement. This partnership strengthened the program’s curriculum and reinforced IRMCA’s commitment to providing meaningful, high quality leadership education for its members.

Honoring the 2025 Developing Concrete Leaders Cohort

At the 2026 IRMCA Winter Mixer, IRMCA proudly recognized the individuals who completed the 2025 Developing Concrete Leaders program. Their commitment to professional growth and leadership development reflects the values of the association and the future direction of the industry.

  • Blue Star Redi Mix
    • Devin Weber
  • Concrete Supply, LLC
    • Will Schmidt
  • imi [Irving Materials, Inc.]
    • Andrew Bales
    • Zeke Lockwood
  • Ozinga Ready Mix, Inc.
    • Mitchell Biancardi
    • Patrick Michael
    • Kara Oppenhuis
    • Sara Svendsen
  • Shelby Materials, Inc.
    • Jason Whitis
  • Smith Ready Mix, Inc.
    • Sam Barkas
    • Tyler Frye

Each participant brought unique perspectives, experiences, and strengths to the program. Together, they formed a cohort defined by curiosity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to leadership excellence.

Investing in the Future of the Concrete Industry

The Developing Concrete Leaders program is more than a training series. It is an investment in people and in the long term health of the ready mix concrete industry. By encouraging leadership growth at all levels, IRMCA continues to support a strong, resilient, and forward thinking industry community.

As these individuals return to their companies and teams, they carry with them the tools, insights, and confidence gained through the program. Their leadership will help shape workplaces, projects, and industry culture for years to come.

IRMCA Winter Mixer Recap

The recognition of the Developing Concrete Leaders cohort was one of many highlights from the 2026 IRMCA Winter Mixer. To explore the full event recap, including awards, speakers, and industry celebrations, read the complete Winter Mixer Recap: https://www.irmca.com/association-highlights/winter-mixer/recap-2026