Concrete Credentials

Discover why concrete is the material of choice for resilient, sustainable, and cost-effective homebuilding in this episode of Concrete Credentials. Host Shamim Rashid-Sumar sits down with Buddy Hughes, NAHB's 2025 Chairman of the Board, who shares his journey from homebuilder to industry advocate. Buddy offers expert perspectives on the benefits of concrete, discusses the latest resilient construction practices and explains how innovation is helping the industry tackle challenges like extreme weather and rising insurance costs. Tune in to gain valuable insights into why concrete remains the go-to material for strength, durability and efficiency across the construction industry.

On this episode of Concrete Credentials, we are joined by Birgitte Messerschmidt, Director of Research at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  She highlights NFPA’s unique, data-driven research and advocate for shifting fire safety assessments from product comparisons to evaluating real hazards. Tune in to hear insights on how these practices—and a focus on inclusive standards—are shaping the future of fire safety in the built environment. 

On this episode of Concrete Credentials, we are joined by Franck Boursier, CEO of Everlasting Homes Group. He explores how Everlasting’s use of SCIP and Ultra High-Performance Concrete enables homes to withstand disasters, reduce energy and maintenance costs, and minimize environmental impact. Tune in to learn how innovation, strategic execution and a focus on long-term value are setting new standards in housing for safety, efficiency and durability. 

On this episode of Concrete Credentials we are joined by Rich Szecsy, CEO of Big Town Concrete for an in-depth conversation on AI adoption in concrete production and construction. Rich explores how clearly defining problems, prioritizing data quality and collaborating across industry and environmental groups are essential to leveraging AI for greater efficiency and sustainability—including advances in low-carbon concrete. Tune in to learn how ongoing dialogue, strategic partnerships and a focus on outcomes are shaping the future of concrete and construction. 

In this episode of Concrete Credentials, we’re joined by Laurie Schoeman, Chief Investment and Impact Officer at Partners for the Common Good, for an insightful conversation on creating climate-resilient communities. Laurie discusses how stronger building codes, innovative financing and broad collaboration are essential to tackling extreme weather risks and supporting underserved populations. Tune in to discover the value of proactive investment, effective communication and engaging diverse stakeholders in building a safer, more resilient future.

In this episode of Concrete Credentials, we welcome Illya Azaroff, AIA President Elect, for a conversation on the ethical duty of architects and allied professionals to prioritize resilient, disaster-resistant design and to advocate against rebuilding in high-risk areas.

Tune in for the latest episode of Concrete Credentials with Karin Perrisinotto, Sustainability Manager at CalPortland. Learn more about the critical elements of effective sustainability communication and explore the importance of not only delivering the right message but also taking impactful actions and effectively sharing those efforts with your audience. 

On the Season 6 premier of Concrete Credentials, host Gregg Lewis is joined by Jeannette Monroe, Senior Vice President of Learning and Development at NRMCA. Jeannette shares insights on the significance of open communication and collaboration in managing change and advancing progress within the concrete industry, emphasizing the goal of increasing member value and industry engagement. 

On the Season 5 finale of Concrete Credentials, host Shamim Rashid-Sumar is joined by Brian Meacham, Director of Risk and Regulatory Consulting at Crux Consulting LLC. Brian discusses his expertise in the fire resilience of concrete and explores how engineers and architects can go beyond building code requirements to prioritize sustainability and resilience.

Tune in for the latest episode of Concrete Credentials with Julie Garbini, President of Concrete Advancement Foundation. Learn more about Julie's experience in the concrete industry and how the Foundation is building resilient, affordable communities and advancing the industry's role in decarbonization, sustainability and innovation.