A small-scale block & paver production line installed in 2007 at the former National Concrete Masonry Association Research & Development Lab is being transferred to the World Center for Concrete Technology at Alpena Community College in northern Michigan. Besser Co., whose world headquarters borders the ACC campus, is supporting the move of equipment initially deployed to test the use of recycled materials in building or hardscape unit mix designs, advance manufacturing methods, and spur product innovations.
“We were very appreciative of the donations by several of our industry equipment suppliers to add this capacity to our research laboratory, but WCCT will be a better home for this production plant,” CMHA President Bob Thomas, adding that the move solidifies his group’s ongoing relationship with the Center in support of the industry.
“The students at ACC, as well as industry professionals attending Blockmaker Workshops, have had the unique benefit of hands-on experience in operating concrete block machines as part of their education,” affirms Besser CEO Ryan Suszek. “We’re proud to be able to provide that same experience with manufacturing concrete pavers, a key component to facilitating industry growth and expanding employment opportunities postgraduation.”
2025 BESSER BLOCKMAKERS WORKSHOPS
Besser Co. and the World Center for Concrete Technology, Alpena, Mich., have scheduled eight Blockmakers Workshop sessions across the 2025 calendar, three available in winter or fall offerings. All sessions are hosted at the WCCT, located on the Alpena Community College campus, and equipped with a full concrete masonry production facility:
- Concrete Masonry Technology, February 10-14; September 15-19
- Classroom and lab content suited to seasoned professionals or those starting careers.
- Advanced Concrete Masonry Technology, May 5-9
- Offered to those who have completed the Concrete Masonry Technology, course features in-depth discussions, extensive instruction, plus firsthand testing and production.
- Vibrapac, February 17-21; September 22-26
- Firsthand machine model exposure, including adjustments, electronics and basic electrical schematic print reading.
- Advanced Vibrapac, April 21-25
- Deep dive into the machine model’s mechanical and electrical operation; advance troubleshooting.
- Electronic Controls, March 3-7; October 6-10
- Covers advanced troubleshooting on Vibrapac, Besser-Matics, splitters, LSC Product Transporter systems and cubers.
- Executive Session, July 22-24
- Provides managers an understanding of concrete materials technology and block plant operation basics with an eye to increasing their effectiveness as leaders.
- Product Handling, October 13-17
- Focuses on unique maintenance and troubleshooting required for concrete masonry unit handling and curing equipment.
ACC issues college credits for each course. Participants can earn Master Blockmaker designation—a widely recognized educational achievement in the North American concrete industry—by completing five Workshops. Registration and additional course information can be obtained from WCCT, www.wcct.net.