One of the last things Ward Malisch told me to do as he left The Aberdeen Group and I took over as editor of Concrete Construction in 2001 was to call Tommy Ruttura. We were planning a feature for later in the year titled Contractors to Watch and Ward suggested that Ruttura seemed a likely person to include.
When I got in touch with him and asked about recent projects, he told me “I don’t really have a favorite. It’s all part of building the American infrastructure. It’s the best job in the world.” Nearly 20 years have passed but Tommy hasn’t slowed down, although he may have mellowed a bit.
In September, at the ASCC Annual Conference, Tommy’s contributions to the association were recognized with the 2019 Lifetime Achievement Award. Bev Garnant, ASCC executive director, wrote, “Some people join an organization and give their time. Some join and contribute dollars. A special few give their heart and soul. Tonight we honor a heart and soul member, Tommy Ruttura. Since joining ASCC in 1982 Tommy has been a preacher, cheerleader, mentor, advocate, ambassador, fan, critic, watchdog, fundraiser, rabble rouser. All with the intent of making the organization sounder and stronger. His impact within this congregation is everlasting and has made us ever better.”
