IRMCA's NPC Expands Student Outreach in 2025

The Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association has long believed that the future of our industry depends on investing in today’s students. That belief was on full display in 2025, as NPC, the Northern Promotions Committee spearheaded a year filled with student-focused outreach, workforce partnerships, and community engagement.

From STEM camps to plant tours, NPC members worked side-by-side with educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to inspire the next generation of engineers, contractors, and ready mix professionals.

Concrete in the Classroom: Summer STEM and Construction Camps

This past summer, students across Indiana rolled up their sleeves to experience concrete in action.

• At Purdue Northwest’s Construction Camp in Hammond, more than two dozen middle school students participated in hands-on activities like slump tests, finishing techniques, and concrete pouring. Volunteers from IRMCA Member Companies guided students through each step, helping them discover the science and skill behind one of the world’s most important building materials.
  
  
• At Ivy Tech’s STEM Camp in Fort Wayne, industry volunteers offered the same engaging mix of classroom lessons and field demonstrations. Students gained valuable exposure to the role concrete plays in infrastructure and community development.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Educators emphasized that these events not only taught STEM concepts but also showed students viable career paths in construction and engineering. For many participants, it was their first time working with concrete, a powerful moment that connected curiosity with career potential!

Member Companies Leading the Way

IRMCA members were the backbone of these programs. Companies like Smith Ready Mix, Heidelberg Materials, Euclid Chemical, Buzzi
Unicem, Ozinga, and imi donated materials, provided technical guidance, and shared their employees’ time and expertise.

The commitment of these member companies underscores a shared mission: Investing in the workforce pipeline to ensure Indiana’s concrete industry remains strong for decades to come.

Strengthening Partnerships and Expanding Reach

The Northern Promotions Committee’s work doesn’t stop at summer camps. In September, NPC members convened in Valparaiso with representatives from the Center for Workforce Innovations and special guest Congressman Frank Mrvan.

Congressman Mrvan highlighted ongoing federal efforts around CDL legislation, infrastructure funding, and workforce development. His presence reinforced how industry, education, and government can work together to create lasting career pathways. During the meeting, NPC members also discussed future opportunities, like a plant tour at an imi facility; giving students a closer look at how concrete is produced and delivered. 

A Broader Impact on Indiana Communities

The outreach work of NPC in 2025 represents more than a series of events. It is part of a larger movement to integrate concrete into education, encourage young people to explore construction careers, and connect communities with the resources they need to thrive. Every camp, tour, and student interaction is a building block in a broader effort to ensure Indiana has the skilled workforce required to meet its growing infrastructure and development needs.

Looking Ahead

As NPC wraps up a successful 2025, the group is already planning for the year ahead. With no more meetings scheduled for this year, attention is shifting to quarterly meetings in 2026, and possibly a gathering during the IRMCA Winter Mixer in January. The enthusiasm of educators, the participation of students, and the dedication of member companies make it clear: This work is only just beginning.

The Northern Promotions Committee has proven that meaningful outreach requires collaboration, creativity, and commitment. By engaging students directly and fostering partnerships with educators and policymakers, IRMCA members are ensuring the industry’s future is strong, sustainable, and inspiring.

Want to make an impact? Join an IRMCA Committee today and help lead the way in workforce development and community engagement.