CIM Graduate
Katie Poss
School: Middle Tennessee State University
Graduation Date: Class of 2016
Employer: National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA)
“The CIM program laid the foundation (pun intended) for my current role at NRMCA. I would not be able to address the sustainability challenges of our industry without first understanding the material; how it is made, in what applications it is used, supply chain, quality control, site logistics, scheduling, estimation, etc.”
What is your current position and responsibilities at NRMCA?
I am currently the Director of Sustainability Initiatives with the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA). In this role, I provide technical support to NRMCA members and state affiliates regarding green building standards including LEED, Green Globes and the International Green Construction Code, among others. I also manage education and certification programs for members such as Environmental Product Declarations, Responsible Sourcing and embodied carbon reduction strategies.
Why did you choose this position and this company?
I am very passionate about sustainability and reducing the impact our industry has on the planet. The built environment is responsible for nearly 40 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions between operational emissions and emissions associated with manufacturing building materials. When I was offered this position, I was excited about the opportunity to get back to my concrete roots and narrow my focus on efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the industry. The NRMCA and its members have committed to a goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050. Concrete is a fascinating and versatile material. I am excited and encouraged by the innovation happening to make the goal of
carbon neutrality a reality.
How has the CIM program prepared you for your current job responsibilities?
The CIM program laid the foundation (pun intended) for my current role at NRMCA. I would not be able to address the sustainability challenges of our industry without first understanding the material; how it is made, in what applications it is used, supply chain, quality control, site logistics, scheduling, estimation, etc. I use the education I gained
through the CIM program daily in my role…I’ve even pulled out a few of my old textbooks from time to time! In addition to the curriculum and knowledge I gained, the CIM program provided an opportunity to build lasting relationships with fellow students, my professors and the industry. In fact, my former professor Dr. Heather Brown is the one who introduced me to the team at NRMCA. I encounter former classmates regularly and maintaining those relationships has served me well in my career.