EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR UPDATE DFI’s Goal: Sharing Knowledge D FI has always been ambitious in setting goals to achieve our mission. We focus on leading the way in technical and related concerns of all disciplines, and for all technologies within the foundation design and construction industry. We try to tackle each and every application within our scope and even peripheral to our scope with detail and attention. So how are we doing in the achievement department? We continue to attract experts and innovators to our technical committees and, through these committees, give atten- tion to a broad spectrum — drilled and driven techniques, ground improvement methods, design considerations, quality control/assurance, marine applications, slope stabilization applications… We are sought out across the globe by colleagues in related industries who wish to learn from DFI’s knowledge base, and partner with us to achieve their goals, which in turn advance ours. From offshore technology…to design challenges in Mexico and Brazil…to geotechnical advancement in the Middle East...to updating the grouting community…to assisting the Army Corps on seepage control of dams and levees…to educating the Indian community on infrastructure development options…DFI is there to lead, to support, to inform, to synthesize. And what allows us to make strides in these varied areas? You do! The DFI members, board of trustees, technical committee chairs, regional chapter leaders, seminar speakers, conference exhibi tors, researchers, Educational Trust supporters — You! You are the engine that drives our ambition and gets the ideas flowing on ways we can continue to grow our membership and disseminate our message to a wider audience! How can we continue to progress? If you’re a member and haven’t been as active as you’d like to be, take a moment and sign up to attend an Theresa Rappaport Executive Director [email protected] event, join a committee or submit an idea to headquarters on what else DFI can do to make advances. If you’re a non-member, JOIN! Together we will keep the lines of communication open between industry disciplines and educate others on deep foundations technology. Our Annual Con- ference in Houston is a perfect opportunity to see DFI in action and get involved. DEEP FOUNDATIONS • SEPT/OCT 2012 • 7
