Pave It Black: The Official Podcast of NAPA

In the final episode of Season 10, we welcome DWayne Edmondson, Safety Director at Gallagher Asphalt and author of Twist of Faith: Finding the Silver Lining. Dwayne shares how attitude shapes not only job site safety, but personal growth and leadership. The conversation explores how communication, emotional awareness, and a positive approach can prevent injuries, strengthen teams, and create a culture where people feel supported both professionally and personally. Our season concludes with a reminder that success is not just about technical skills, it’s about how you approach each day, how you respond to adversity, and how willing you are to grow. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we explore the intersection of cutting-edge technology and asphalt infrastructure with Noor Saleh, an engineer and entrepreneur from Continuum Infrastructure Solutions. Noor shares her journey from researching asphalt materials at NC State to being recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30 for her work in manufacturing and industry. The conversation highlights how the next generation of leaders are re-envisioning the pavement lifecycle through automation and advanced data analysis. Beyond technical innovations, Noor offers practical advice for early career engineers on the value of finding mentors and being an engaged mentee to drive meaningful impact. Be inspired by someone who is actively pushing the industry forward! This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to become a trusted technical resource in the asphalt industry? This week, Todd Mansell of Caterpillar shares how decades of hands-on experience evolved into a career dedicated to training crews, improving paving performance, and raising the standard of quality across projects. Todd explains why success in asphalt paving goes beyond materials and technology. It comes down to people, communication, and a clear understanding of the fundamentals. This episode also explores how technical expertise translates into real-world impact, along with the many career paths available in the asphalt pavement industry. Tune in to hear practical insights from someone who has spent a career helping others build better roads. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to lead one of the most complex transportation systems in the United States? In this episode, Mark Compton, CEO of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, offers a behind-the-scenes look at modern infrastructure leadership and how agencies are adapting to increasing demands in construction, safety, sustainability, and customer experience. We explore the innovations reshaping the Turnpike, including open road tolling, the expansion of a statewide fiber optic network, and the launch of an internal Innovation Council designed to empower the next generation of engineers. Tune in for valuable insights on transportation leadership and a forward-looking view of the future of mobility. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we sit down with Tyler Hackman of AlignOps once again, to discuss how real-time hauling data is shifting the day-to-day experience for paving crews across North America. We explore the transition from using fragmented, bespoke tools to adopting holistic platforms that provide a clear window into the entire paving process. Tyler shares insights into how tracking inbound loads helps foremen reduce site clutter, manage truck queues, and eliminate the learned behaviors caused by a lack of data. We also dive into the practical challenges of technology implementation and the importance of top-down leadership. Tune in to find out how data solutions can improve your paving operations. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Pave It Black, we explore how non-engineers are transforming the road construction industry. Lauren SeBlonka shares her unconventional journey from studying sociology at the University of Glasgow to leading innovation and sustainability initiatives in the UK highways sector with Amey. Lauren highlights her work with the Live Labs 2 project and her involvement with PIARC, the World Road Association, to illustrate how international collaboration and diverse perspectives accelerate progress. For professionals considering a career change, this episode offers practical advice on overcoming the intimidation of entering a technical industry. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we welcome Jo Sias Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of New Hampshire, to discuss the evolving landscape of asphalt research. With nearly 25 years of experience in the field, Jo highlights the growing necessity of cross-disciplinary collaboration, specifically how engineering must integrate with social science and data science to improve long term pavement performance. She emphasizes the importance of the relationship between academic researchers and industry partners to ensure that scientific discoveries are practically applicable at the construction site. Tune in to learn more about the new era of collaboration driving the asphalt pavement industry. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marvin Joles shares his 23-year journey from teenage roofing laborer in rural Wisconsin to respected asphalt contractor, entrepreneur, and industry storyteller. As the founder of Wis-Coat and the voice behind In the Mix and Blacktop Banter, Marvin explains how social media, content creation, and personal branding transformed his business and expanded his impact across the asphalt pavement community. We also discuss the importance of industry visibility and Marvin’s mission to document the life stories of the people who build our infrastructure. Whether you are a small contractor looking to scale or just curious about the trade, this episode offers practical insights into building a unique, long-term career in asphalt. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we explore how technology, leadership, and culture are reshaping modern asphalt job sites. Guests Adam Harshman, President of FleetWatcher, and Tyler Hackman, Director of Sales, share why true innovation in the asphalt pavement industry starts with the boots on the ground, not the boardroom. From digital tools that drive transparency across plants, trucks, and paving crews to building a culture where data becomes a shared language, this episode delivers practical insights on asphalt innovation and job site technology you can apply right away. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we sit down with keynote speaker and author Sam Demma, to explore the critical role of empathy within the world of construction. Recorded live at NAPA’s Annual Meeting, Sam shares his unexpected journey from a high school volunteer initiative to becoming a sought-after motivational speaker. Sam dives into the concept behind his upcoming book, Return on Goodwill, explaining how acts of kindness create lasting impact both personally and professionally. We explore how the asphalt pavement industry can better connect with Gen Z talent and why is important to assume positive intent. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To celebrate the 100th episode of Pave It Black, Richard Willis and Brett Williams sit down with the new NAPA Chair, Jay Lemon, for a live episode recorded at NAPA’s 2026 Annual Meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona. The conversation explores the rich history of the association and the evolving landscape of the asphalt pavement industry. We dive into the critical importance of advocacy and the upcoming Highway Bill. From leadership lessons inspired by General Norman Schwarzkopf to the story of a hidden time capsule at a State Capitol, this episode offers a relaxed discussion about the people and passion behind the roads that connect our country. This season is sponsored by FleetWatcher by AlignOps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Pave It Black, NAPA leadership reflects on the biggest achievements of 2025 and what those wins mean for the asphalt pavement industry moving forward. Richard Willis and Brett Williams are joined by NAPA President and CEO Audrey Copeland, Director of Government Affairs Mitch Baldwin, and Senior VP of Membership Ester Magorka to unpack both the visible milestones and the behind-the-scenes work that shaped the year. Tune in for a candid and forward-looking discussion on how involvement, advocacy, and leadership continue to advance the asphalt pavement industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During this special episode we recap The Road Forward International Summit, a first-of-its-kind global gathering focused on asphalt decarbonization, sustainability, and innovation. Richard and Brett sit down with Dr. Amlan Mukherjee, NAPA’s Senior Director for Sustainability and Intelligent Construction, to explore the insights, breakthroughs, and unexpected conversations that emerged across the event. With participation from North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America, the summit revealed new perspectives on environmental product declarations, lifecycle assessment, and the future of sustainable asphalt production. If you couldn't make the conference, tune in to recap the best bits of this dynamic conference. Learn more about The Road Forward: www.asphaltpavement.org/forward Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final episode of Pave It Black, Jim McEvoy, President & CEO of Wirtgen America, shares why a deep knowledge of how your products, teams, and services come together is critical to staying true to your company’s vision and brand promise. From integrating multiple brands under one umbrella to leading innovation in roadbuilding equipment, Jim explains how aligning every step of the process with a clear purpose drives long-term success. We discuss the importance of visibility at industry tradeshows, and how a strong brand is built through service and strategy. Tune in to the season finale for insights that will sharpen your leadership mindset. Episode sponsored by Wirtgen Group. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Organizational transitions involve more than balance sheets and operational plans—they require navigating the emotional dynamics that often make or break leadership changes. In this episode, we speak with leadership development expert and author of Succeeding: Stepping Up Without Stepping In It, Albert Ciuksza. With decades of consulting experience, Albert walks us through the nuanced dynamics between successors and predecessors in asphalt and beyond. He emphasizes emotional intelligence as the key to managing transitions effectively and warns how ignoring the human side of leadership can derail even the best-laid plans. Whether you’re planning an exit or preparing to step up, this conversation gives you the tools to lead a successful transition. Tune in today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we shift gears and dive into leadership in a vital area of our industry: sales. With the help of Brodie Hutchins, Vice President of VÖGELE Products at the Wirtgen Group and Chair of NAPA’s Associate Member Council, we break down what it takes to become a trusted voice in the field. Brodie shares what it truly takes to succeed in sales roles—a blend of deep technical knowledge and relationship-building that puts people first. He discusses key sales philosophies like value over price, how to motivate teams during down cycles, and why honesty builds lasting customer trust. Tune in to sharpen your business development mindset and learn how to thrive in your sales role. Episode sponsored by Wirtgen Group. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stepping into a new industry can be challenging or intimidating, but for Amanda Mohr, it brought tremendous growth. This week, the President of Superior Bowen shares how her background in finance became a powerful foundation for leading with precision, adaptability, and authenticity. Through her commitment to lifelong learning, she’s embraced every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Whether she's innovating operational practices at Superior Bowen or championing women in the industry through Women of Asphalt, Amanda’s stayed true to her core values of hard work and commitment to excellence. If you’re considering an industry pivot or want to transition your skills, this episode offers actionable advice. Tune in today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When we think of leadership, we often picture the teams we manage or the goals we set—but sometimes, we need to look a little closer. True leadership starts with self-awareness: it starts with me. In this episode of Pave It Black, executive coach and leadership expert, Wally Adamchik, shares how he has helped leaders grow by embracing grace and humility. With decades of experience coaching executives in the construction industry, Wally breaks down what it means to develop values and why your mission matters more than you think. Listen to uncover the leadership lessons that bring real value to the asphalt pavement industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Relationships in leadership are vital for success—both with clients and with your crew. This week, global business development expert Hilary Fordwich brings 30+ years of experience to unpack how strong leadership attracts business, builds loyalty, and drives results. Through her “Want v. Need” framework, Hilary explains how to develop teams that don’t just perform, they believe in the work. Listeners will learn the three characteristics every leader must have to drive team performance and why emotional buy-in matters more than just a paycheck. Tune in to learn how you can build trust and boost morale at your company, plus key tips on how to get more hours out of your workday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Aaron Witt, the Founder of BuildWitt, joins us to share how a relentless drive for curiosity has shaped his leadership journey—and how it can do the same for you. Aaron emphasizes that building authentic cultures and investing in people as individuals, not just workers, is the secret to success. Drawing from global experiences and countless conversations with industry leaders, he shows how staying continually curious and bettering yourself can drive real change. Whether you're managing a crew, navigating early leadership challenges, or simply wanting to build a stronger team, this episode will leave you motivated to think differently, lead boldly, and build better. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can you transition between roles while staying true to your values? This week’s guest, Deb Schwerman, demonstrates that a passion for your work and industry can reinforce those values, no matter your position. As the current Executive Director of the Wisconsin Asphalt Pavement Association, she shares her journey—from inspecting asphalt in the field and testing samples in the lab to leading industry-wide initiatives. Her willingness to embrace every opportunity and forward-thinking perspective shows that leadership is shaped by the journey, not just the destination. Be inspired by Deb’s path, passion, and purpose. Listen now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This special edition honors National Work Zone Awareness Week with an in-depth look at how awareness, advocacy, and innovation are creating safer job sites for road workers. First, we hear from Mitch Baldwin and Cameron Greene —two leading voices in the Work Zone Safety Coalition—who break down the latest policy efforts, the impact of federal and state-level changes, and how you can join the awareness campaign. Then, we spotlight NB West Contracting, winner of NAPA’s 2024 Asphalt Operations Safety Innovations Award. Their team share stories from job sites and explain how they developed this award-winning technology. Whether you're on the job site, advocating on the Hill, or driving through a work zone, this episode will inspire you to play an active role in protecting the people who keep America moving. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Diverse professional experiences play a crucial role in shaping effective, people-centered leadership. This week, Maure Creager, the Director of Circular Economy at CertainTeed, discusses how her varied background has enabled her to successfully transition into the asphalt pavement industry. She offers valuable advice for professionals aspiring to leadership roles, highlighting the importance of surrounding oneself with diverse perspectives, learning from past experiences, and remaining authentic. Tune in to learn what it means to lead with humility and curiosity while promoting principles of the circular economy and sustainability in business. Episode sponsored by CertainTeed Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam Tarnow didn’t plan to become a leadership expert—but his curiosity and drive to be a better boss led him to coach hundreds of professionals to become leaders others want to follow. This week, Adam helps us break down three essential traits every leader needs—and how asphalt pavement professionals can apply them to lead teams, projects, and companies more successfully. He highlights the importance of being realistically optimistic when faced with challenges and how developing a personal brand can support your leadership aspirations. This episode will leave you with actionable ideas on how to lead with more clarity, empathy, and confidence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Successful leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about building healthy relationships within and outside your organization. For this week’s episode, Audrey Copeland returns to the studio to lead a conversation with Christine Shaw, President and CEO of Naylor Association Solutions, a company that has partnered with NAPA for over 20 years. Together, they explore how partnerships, humility, and visibility shape effective leadership. Christine shares how great leaders acknowledge their blind spots, build strong teams, and seek continuous growth—both for themselves and the organizations they serve. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this episode will challenge you to rethink leadership as a journey of learning, adapting, and giving as much as you receive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What role do values play in setting the direction of a company? During this week’s episode, we learn how Superior Paving’s focus on developing remarkable employees through excellence, partnership, integrity, and commitment (EPIC) has strengthened their company culture. With the help of David White, President of Superior Paving, we discuss how values aren’t just words on a wall, but a daily practice that shapes decision-making and leadership. Tune in to hear how leading with integrity, fostering self-awareness, and truly caring for your people can transform both businesses and the industry.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creativity isn’t solely reserved for artists, it’s a critical skill that leaders can use to innovate, adapt, and thrive. This week, Richard and Brett welcome Josh Linkner – entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and jazz musician – to the studio to uncover how leaders can embrace their innate creative abilities. After an inspiring session at Annual Meeting, we dive deeper into Josh’s 5 Big Principles, learn personal stories of overcoming failure, and discuss the future of leadership. Listen for an inspiring conversation on thinking differently, fostering fear-free cultures, and the power of creativity.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we sit down with NAPA President and CEO Dr. Audrey Copeland to discuss her journey from engineer to industry leader. Audrey shares insights on leadership transitions, the key qualities of successful leaders, and key moments that helped her succeed on her career path. She also discusses the importance of setting the right tone as a leader, making decisive choices, and embracing change. Tune in to hear her perspectives on fostering collaboration, leveraging peer networks, and ensuring long-term industry success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season nine of Pave It Black returns and we're diving into the topic of leadership. To kick things off, we sit down with Pat Nelson, newly elected NAPA Chairman and President of Lehman-Roberts, a Granite Company. Pat reflects on his path from fieldwork to industry leadership, the role of mentorship, and why advocacy is essential for shaping the future of the asphalt pavement industry. Don’t miss this deep dive into what leadership looks like in action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final episode of Season 8, we pick up our conversation with Tim Kowalski and Laikram Narsingh from Wirtgen Group. We explore two innovative technologies changing the asphalt pavement industry: 3D paving and Cold Central Plant Recycling. We learn what these technologies are, how they were developed, and we share real-world examples of these technologies in action. Join us as we wrap up this season focused on Technology and the People Who Use It! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the penultimate episode of Season 8, we kick off the first half of a two-part conversation with Tim Kowalski and Laikram Narsingh from Wirtgen Group. During this conversation, Tim and Nars delve into the critical role of training and sustainability in asphalt paving. We explore how to help the workforce understand and adopt new technologies and discuss the retention challenges manufacturers are facing. Finally, we discuss how equipment technology can contribute to the sustainability goals of the industry and the steps contractors can take to join this movement.Episode sponsored by Wirtgen Group: https://www.wirtgen-group.com/en-us/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Richard and Brett explore the technology of wear parts. With the help of Brian Handshoe and Randy Barrington from Kenco Engineering, we break down what wear parts are, how this technology evolved, and where Kenco stands as an innovator in the field. From asphalt drums to auger blades, we’ll discuss specific examples of wear parts, including best practices for integration and maintenance to maximize equipment lifespan. Finally, we take a look at the future of wear part technology and discuss how wear parts contribute to the sustainability efforts of our industry.Episode sponsored by Kenco Engineering: https://www.kencoengineering.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Pave It Black, we delve into the technologies and strategies shaping the European asphalt pavement industry. With the help of Breixo Gómez Meijide, Technical Director for the European Asphalt Pavement Association (EAPA), we look at the innovations helping the industry work towards its goal of being carbon-neutral by 2050. We discuss emerging topics such as low-temperature asphalt, the circular economy, and the potential impact of the rise of electric and autonomous vehicles on road durability. Lastly, we highlight the relationships between NAPA, EAPA, and other international organizations, and their role in driving technological advancements in the asphalt pavement industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Pave It Black, we discuss how specialized software can enhance your operations. While many think of everyday tools like Office 365 and CRM databases, there are software platforms uniquely designed for the needs of asphalt pavement companies. To dig deeper, we talk to Ari Bleemer from OneCrew, a company at the forefront of creating innovative software solutions for our industry. Ari shares the story behind developing a unified platform for asphalt professionals and explains how digital tools can streamline operations, enhance productivity, and overcome common industry challenges. We also explore the broader trends in software adoption, the hurdles companies face when integrating new technology, and the exciting emerging technologies on the horizon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re exploring a technology that will significantly change how asphalt plants operate: remote-operated, autonomous loaders. To learn more about this technology, Richard and Brett talk to Vince Hafeli of Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, the first company in America to introduce this technology. Vince walks us through the technology behind autonomous loaders, how Ajax began its journey with this tech, and its impact on its operations. We dive into the challenges of introducing new technologies, from team training to integration hurdles, and hear Vince’s advice for other companies considering similar advancements.Episode sponsored by ADM: https://www.admasphaltplants.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Pave It Black we’re diving into the world of additive technologies. Additives play a crucial role in enhancing mixture performance and promoting sustainability through increased recycle content and lower production temperatures. To help us learn more about this topic, Richard and Brett talk to Patrick Weaver from Surface Tech. Patrick discusses best practices for introducing and controlling new technologies in asphalt mix production, the benefits of precision dosing, and key metrics producers should consider when evaluating additives. Whether you're an asphalt producer or just curious about the latest technologies, this episode is packed with essential information and expert advice. Episode sponsored by Surface Tech: https://surface-tech.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the third episode of season 8, Richard and Brett discuss today’s most popular technology advancements: artificial intelligence. In 2023, in partnership with XBE, we launched HeyNAPA, a dedicated AI search engine that lets you access technical documents and helps answer any asphalt pavement-related queries. As more companies within the industry adopt AI technologies, we talk to Luke Kotz of Mannatts, Inc. to discuss how AI is making a noticeable impact, the unexpected benefits it’s brought to their operations, and how to overcome challenges in adopting the technology. If you're curious about how AI is transforming construction and what the future holds for the asphalt pavement industry, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Pave It Black, we tackle one of the asphalt industry’s biggest challenges: recruiting and retaining talent. While many regions are struggling, Georgia is seeing success thanks to the integration of innovative workforce simulators. To help us dive into this topic, we asked Ray Rodriguez from CW Matthews to explain what these simulators are, how they work, and the tangible benefits they provide for both companies and workers. Listen to learn more about Georgia’s HEO Program, its impact on CW Matthews’ recruitment, and how this technology is reshaping workforce strategies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to a brand-new season of Pave It Black! For Season Eight, we are revisiting the topic of technology and learning from the people who use it. To kick off our season, Richard and Brett explore how technological innovations enhance sustainability in the asphalt pavement industry. With the help of Trevor Wagoner and Eric Baker from Astec Industries, we explore how data analytics aid sustainable decision-making, why integrating technologies can be advantageous, and future technology trends for the asphalt pavement industry. Don’t miss the first conversation of season eight!This episode is sponsored by Astec Industries. For more information, visit: https://www.astecindustries.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the episode of Conversations from the Capital, we revisit the topic of airfield paving. To understand how agency and industry work together to improve pavement performance, Richard and Brett sit down with Jeff Crislip from the Federal Aviation Administration and Marty McNamara from Granite Construction. Tune in to learn more about the upcoming changes in airfield specifications, the reason behind stricter specifications for airfield projects, and why communication is a vital aspect of the process. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Richard and Brett discuss airfield construction and the importance of employee training. In this high-stakes environment, ensuring that employees are well-trained is vital for constructing quality pavements. They talk to Matthew Hoyle from the US Army Corps of Engineers and Travis Walbeck from the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) at Auburn University to learn more about the Airfield Asphalt Certification Program. Listen to discover why the program was developed, how to enroll, and its impact on the asphalt pavement industry. Visit https://airfieldasphaltcert.com/ to learn more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode of Pave It Black, Richard and Brett delve into the topic of electric vehicles (EVs) and how they affect the asphalt pavement industry. With more EVs on the road, new technologies are emerging to support these vehicles. To shed light on these developments, Reed Ryan from the Asphalt Pavement Alliance and Amir Golalipour from the Federal Highway Administration were invited to discuss inductive charging and its implications for the asphalt pavement industry. Tune in to learn what inductive charging is, which organizations are making progress in this area, and how this technology could be integrated into the lifespan of a pavement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this episode of Pave It Black, Richard and Brett discuss the topic of standards and their role in the asphalt pavement industry. With the help of Oak Metcalf from the Montana Department of Transportation and Kelly Cook from the Edward Levy Company, we learn how industry and agencies work on specifications to ensure that our products help build the best highway systems and roads. Deep dive into the world of AASHTO and ASTM, learn how you can get involved, and why it’s important to be involved in this process. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest episode of Pave It Black, Richard and Brett catch up with NAPA's Government Affairs Team to get an update on their recent advocacy activities and upcoming plans. Nile Elam, the Vice President of Government Affairs, joins the conversation to discuss NAPA's advocacy goals, his World of Asphalt PPP session, and the upcoming efforts planned for Distracted Driving Month. Listen and find out how you can participate in the upcoming advocacy events, including the TCC Fly-In on May 14-15 and the Hill Days on September 25-26. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Pave It Black, Richard and Brett explore the use of low carbon construction materials in the asphalt pavement industry. To guide our conversation, we spoke with Walter Tersch from the General Services Administration, as well as Scott Legg and Fred Marvel from Brannan Companies. Gain insight into the specific requirements the GSA asks of businesses, including the importance of providing Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for asphalt products.To learn more about how the GSA interacts with the asphalt pavement industry, attend their upcoming Virtual Inflation Reduction Action Industry Exchange webinar on March 21 at 11 AM ET. Register here: https://sam.gov/opp/5417ad0239dc448880c9947ecb92ba87/view Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest episode of Pave It Black, Richard and Brett delve into the ENERGY STAR program and its potential benefits for companies in the asphalt pavement industry. To steer the conversation, they speak with Danny Macri of the Environmental Protection Agency's ENERGY STAR program, Bill Jerald, Chief Energy Engineer at CalPortland, and Matt Hinck, their Vice President of Government Affairs. Tune in to learn how ENERGY STAR can help companies achieve their sustainability goals, support program partners, and encourage employees to adopt energy-efficient practices. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Pave It Black, we discuss how Balanced Mix Design (BMD) is implemented at an industry and agency level. To understand both perspectives, Richard and Brett talk to Derek Nener-Plante of the Federal Highway Administration’s Resource Center, and Steve Jackson of N.B. West Contracting. Listen to learn more about the agency and industry collaboration, how challenges are overcome, and NAPA’s role in supporting BMD implementation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the Season Seven premiere episode of Pave It Black, Richard Willis and Brett Williams return with a live recording at NAPA's 2024 Annual Meeting from Orlando, Florida. Learn how the podcast got off the ground, revisit previous seasons, and hear about some of Richard and Brett's favorite moments. For Pave It Black's Seventh Season, Conversations from the Capital, Richard and Brett will facilitate conversations between industry leaders and federal partners. Tune in every Tuesday to learn about industry developments, agency updates, and much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the season 6 finale, we dig into how the Women of Asphalt organization continues to help bring awareness about the opportunities that abound in the asphalt industry. In this episode of Pave It Black, Richard and Brett talk with Sheila Barkevich, President of Women of Asphalt and Northeast Division Performance Manager at CRH Americas Materials about how she became involved with the Women of Asphalt and the numerous efforts that the organization is undertaking at both the national level and with their local branches. Tune in to learn more about Women of Asphalt and visit https://www.womenofasphalt.org/events to find their upcoming events. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Proving out technologies and innovations in asphalt mixtures and pavements can be difficult when industry already expects our pavements to perform 20 years or more into the future. In this episode of Pave It Black, Richard and Brett talk with Randy West, Director of the National Center for Asphalt Technology at Auburn University about the research conducted at the test track and how that enables the asphalt industry and agencies to quickly evaluate new products as well as find answers to challenges faced by pavement owners. Tune in to learn about the many ways that asphalt research is making a difference in the performance and efficiency of our infrastructure as well as seeding our industry with the next generation of asphalt materials and pavement experts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.