The National Precast Concrete Association has created a new Director of Technical Specifications position and named Jennifer Harrell, P.E., to the role, strengthening NPCA’s efforts to ensure precast concrete remains fairly represented in state and local infrastructure specifications.
Harrell will monitor, evaluate and help shape specifications nationwide, working with agencies, engineers, industry partners and NPCA members to support fair consideration of precast concrete in infrastructure projects. She also will provide technical insight to support policymaker engagement and legislative efforts affecting the precast concrete industry.
“Specifications determine whether our members get a fair opportunity to compete,” said NPCA President and CEO Nick Rhoad. “Jennifer brings the technical credibility, agency relationships and industry experience needed to help NPCA engage earlier and more effectively in those decisions.”
Harrell brings more than 25 years of experience in civil engineering, stormwater infrastructure, industry advocacy and business development. Throughout her career she has worked to build partnerships with public agencies, private companies and industry stakeholders to advance resilient infrastructure solutions.
The new position was created to help NPCA develop and maintain a level playing field for precast concrete in specifications at the state and local levels.
“Specifications have a direct impact on whether precast concrete is considered in infrastructure projects,” said Brad Chinery, NPCA vice president of technical services. “This new position gives NPCA a dedicated resource to identify specification challenges early, work with agencies, partners and members to address those challenges.”
“I’m excited to join NPCA and support its members by bringing technical perspective to specification discussions across the country,” Harrell said. “Precast concrete plays a critical role in resilient infrastructure, and I look forward to working with agencies, engineers and industry partners to ensure specifications reflect the performance and value precast can provide.”
Harrell will begin her role with NPCA on May 18.