Episodes

  • Better management, better processes: Enhancing asphalt operations with specialized software

    Better management, better processes: Enhancing asphalt operations with specialized software
    Oct 15 2024
    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.
    Show more Show less
    30 mins
  • Loader, no driver: Transforming plant operations with remote-operated autonomous loaders

    Loader, no driver: Transforming plant operations with remote-operated autonomous loaders
    Oct 8 2024
    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/
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • Integrating technology at your plant without disrupting flow: Using aramid fibers in production

    Integrating technology at your plant without disrupting flow: Using aramid fibers in production
    Oct 1 2024
    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/
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • People, process, then technology: Unlocking operational efficiencies with AI

    People, process, then technology: Unlocking operational efficiencies with AI
    Sep 24 2024
    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!
    Show more Show less
    28 mins
  • Giving kids a test drive: Using simulators to recruit the industry’s next generation

    Giving kids a test drive: Using simulators to recruit the industry’s next generation
    Sep 17 2024
    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.
    Show more Show less
    32 mins
  • There's a synergy between technology and sustainability: Understanding digital solutions for asphalt

    There's a synergy between technology and sustainability: Understanding digital solutions for asphalt
    Sep 10 2024
    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/
    Show more Show less
    24 mins
  • Airfield Specifications

    Airfield Specifications
    May 14 2024
    In the penultimate 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.
    Show more Show less
    50 mins
  • Airfield Asphalt Certification Program

    Airfield Asphalt Certification Program
    May 7 2024
    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.
    Show more Show less
    24 mins