A leading player in embedded thin brick systems for architectural precast concrete has rejoined licensor AltusGroup as an Innovation Partner to lend members its expertise and technical support. Innovative Brick Systems of Lafayette, Colo. produces concrete form liners that enable plants to embed brick, tile, and stone into their precast products to deliver timeless, quality finishes. The involvement of the principals in manufacturing the very first urethane rubber brick inlay form liner in 1973 for a Rocky Mountain Prestress project in Denver demonstrates their early dedication to advancing the field. Eight U.S. patents further attest to their contributions to the art and engineering of brick-faced precast work. With the fourth generation now part of the business, Innovative Brick will continue to bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the industry.
“We are pleased to have Innovative Brick back on board to collaborate with our members on advancing the integration of embedded finishes into precast walls,” says AltusGroup Executive Director John Carson. “Its focus on aesthetics perfectly complements the performance-centric precast innovations that are currently in our product development pipeline.”
Innovative Brick formliners and embedded brick systems have been used regularly in the fabrication of CarbonCast High Performance Insulated Wall Panels, AltusGroup’s flagship technology. The addition of Innovative Brick expands AltusGroup’s Innovation Partner roster to nine. Innovation Partners work with producer members to advance breakthrough precast concrete technology. Through AltusGroup, these companies focus on ways to improve the performance, connectivity, aesthetics and resilience of architectural or structural precast elements.
MEMBERS BEGIN SEARCH FOR SUCCESSOR TO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CARSON
AltusGroup is seeking applicants to succeed John Carson, who will retire as executive director in February 2025. Reporting to the AltusGroup board of directors, the full-time position spearheads strategic planning efforts and manages related initiatives, including the exploration and commercialization of new precast technologies, partnerships with innovative precast suppliers, plus ongoing marketing and technical efforts. The executive director is also responsible for managing group finances, membership and recruitment activities, intellectual property and legal affairs, and coordinating the team of expert consultants and advisers who work on AltusGroup’s behalf. A full job description and instructions for applying are posted at www.altusprecast.com.
Carson has held the executive director position since July 2012. During his tenure, the organization expanded its geographic footprint into Canada while solidifying its coast-to-coast U.S. presence. AltusGroup members now operate 27 production facilities across North America. In addition to the flagship CarbonCast technology, Carson continues to coordinate development initiatives intended to streamline the construction process and reduce the carbon footprint of precast enclosure systems. He was previously commercial director of Development for Chomarat NA, supplier of the carbon fiber reinforced polymer grid technology behind CarbonCast products. Members credit him for an instrumental role in spearheading the AltusGroup’s 2003 formation, which arose from joint development initiatives starting in 1999.
“John’s unique background, skillset and conviction have led AltusGroup to its current preeminent position in the precast concrete industry today,” says Chairman Joe Bunkers (Gage Brothers, South Dakota). “We are committed to finding an innovation-minded executive director who can continue moving us forward quickly and strategically while leveraging the significant benefits of our co-opetition model.”