Industry insights.

Informative Industry Insights are free sessions that give attendees the latest and best information to take advantage of emerging trends. Two sessions each will be held on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Don't wait until the last moment. The seats fill quickly and the sessions will only be

2-3 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 18 Concrete Housing

Residential concrete construction is booming and the Concrete Home Building Council will present information on innovative construction methods of above-grade concrete walls using autoclaved aerated concrete products, concrete masonry, insulated concrete forms, precast panels, and removable and reusable forms.

Concrete Thinking

The Portland Cement Association has a strong message to create a positive, responsible image of concrete. Hear about sustainability, which balances economic, social, and environmental impacts, and how concrete is a responsible choice for sustainable development.

2-3 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 19 Instant Access

Hear about the Construction Materials Database (CMATS), a secure Web site where test data can be recorded, viewed, and distributed to owners, architects, engineers, testing companies, contractors, and material suppliers. CMATS allows instant secure access to project test data from any location.

Construction in Mexico

They're building 400,000 new homes in Mexico each year, and the trend is to get away from conventional brick and block. Poured concrete with removable forms offers benefits in costs and construction time. Learn how to finish a home in 19 days.

2-3 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 20 Structural WWR

Using structural welded wire reinforcement (WWR) addresses rising steel costs. This will include recent research for future highway and bridge structures and components, buildings and houses utilizing high-strength structural steel reinforcing, and how it has led to expanded uses.

Green Building

The green building movement represents a significant change in both materials and methods for the concrete industry. It presents opportunities for both contractors and producers. You'll hear about mix designs, using high pozzolanic replacements, recycled water, and other concrete innovations.