Part 2: John Belcik, CEO, International Code Council, Shares His Vision for ICC and the Path Ahead

This January marks John Belcik’s first year as CEO of the International Code Council (ICC).  

After a productive year working alongside ICC members, partners, the Board of Directors and staff, the Building Safety Journal spoke with Belcik about what’s next.  

How do you see ICC’s role in the building safety industry evolving over the next few years?

ICC will continue to lead in building safety, and that core mission won’t change. Driving our mission in 2026 and beyond will be a focus on resiliency, affordability and of course, safety. Building codes and solutions need to bolster all three. 

What’s important for us to know about the 2030 Strategic Plan that launched last year?

From the start, we actively engaged with members, stakeholders and industry professionals through surveys and consultations to ensure their voices helped shape the strategy. This collaborative approach ensures that our 2030 Vision Plan remains relevant and aligns our strategic goals with the real needs of those we serve. 

At the heart of this plan is the One ICC Strategy, which unites our family of solutions to empower our members, protect our communities and strengthen ICC.   

We will continue to identify and serve member needs, providing tools and resources that empower career growth and strive to create improved connections with and among all our ICC Chapters.  

As CEO, how are you driving leadership and innovation?

One of my key priorities is investing in our people to equip them with the tools, knowledge and confidence to lead ICC into the future. We’ve developed an internal training program that focuses on enhancing the skills employees need today, while preparing them for future roles within the organization. 

We will continue to support professional development and career progression to ensure we have leaders ready to step into greater responsibilities as we continue to grow.  

What do you think is the biggest misconception about ICC, and how are you working to change that perception?

A common misconception is that ICC is just a standards development organization or that we just sell code books. We’ve evolved into a comprehensive resource for our members and the industry by offering training, tools and services that support the entire building safety ecosystem. 

We’re also highlighting our broader role in advancing building safety, housing affordability and building resilience. Our building safety solutions include product evaluation, accreditation, technology (including the latest in artificial intelligence), training and certification. 

What do you see as the most impactful ways ICC can support and advance the building safety industry?

The two most impactful ways we advance building safety is by supporting ICC members who do the real work every day on the ground, and by bringing our codes, training and solutions to communities around the world.  

We aim to empower our members and stakeholders with resources and information to make the best safety-driven decisions possible. The codes are the heart of what we do, but it’s critical to support the dedicated people who help develop, integrate, and enforce the codes. This support includes actively addressing the challenges of the industry, including the skilled labor shortage, and more. 

It’s also important to foster strong public/private partnerships and align to reach the common goal of public safety. 

You’ve been meeting with members and chapters throughout the year, what insights have you gained?

While each jurisdiction faces unique challenges, one thing remains consistent: the unwavering dedication of our members. Whether in their professional roles or as volunteers, they commit countless hours to building safety and to their communities, which is essential for our mission.  

I’ve witnessed how ICC Chapters play a key role in both code development and supporting future leaders. They provide a system where individuals can progress through chapter governance and committee roles to eventually serve on the national board. This underscores the importance of keeping members engaged locally, as it creates a pathway for leadership development. 

Chapters are also crucial in engaging the next generation of professionals by organizing the grassroots level in schools and training programs, ensuring the industry’s future is strong. 

How are you ensuring that ICC remains dedicated to delivering ongoing value to our members?

This starts with our talented and dedicated staff, driven by a shared commitment to our mission.

We’re always rolling out new resources and updating existing programs. I encourage our members to take advantage of our expanded training catalog, increased membership support, our online member community and mentorship program, scholarships and more.

We will also continue to embrace emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to stay current and make it easier for our members to do their jobs. By leveraging technology, we ensure that ICC remains a valuable, forward-thinking organization well into the future.

For the latest news and updates from the Code Council, be sure to subscribe to the BSJ Weekly here. Read Part 1 of our conversation with Belcik, here.