The Story of Pavers and Progress at ICPI

Fueling industry market share growth through strategic communications for the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute.

In December 2021, the Boards of the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) and the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) approved a merger that created the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association. The merger brought together two highly respected organizations serving complementary segments of the concrete construction industry.

For the 25 years preceding the merger, ICPI earned an exceptional reputation as the leading technical authority on segmental concrete pavement systems. The organization's mission centered on providing reliable technical support, advancing industry education, and promoting best practices throughout the design and construction community. Through a comprehensive portfolio of certification programs, ICPI delivered essential training in quality, safety, productivity, and installation practices to manufacturers, suppliers, designers, contractors, inspectors, and students.

Among the organization's most visible accomplishments is the annual Hardscape North America (HNA) educational conference and trade show held in Louisville, Kentucky. HNA evolved into one of the industry's premier events, bringing together professionals from across North America for education, networking, product innovation, and hands-on demonstrations.

Supporting these extensive initiatives required a focused and highly dedicated team. Equally important was ensuring that members and stakeholders remained informed about the value being created on their behalf through technical development, education, certification, advocacy, and industry outreach.

As the marketing communications leader, my role was to help strengthen awareness, improve engagement, and extend the reach of ICPI's programs and resources. Efforts focused on creating clarity and continuity across communication platforms while supporting strategic growth objectives. Key initiatives included website redevelopment, promotional support for HNA, enhanced visibility of educational resources, and the development of communication tools that connected diverse audiences with the institute's technical expertise.

It is particularly rewarding to see many of these programs, resources, and communications initiatives continue to thrive and expand today under the leadership of CMHA, advancing the concrete masonry and hardscape industries through education, technical excellence, and industry collaboration.