Pave It Black is the official podcast of the National Asphalt Pavement Association. Hosted by NAPA's Richard Willis and Brett Williams, Pave It Black focuses on the people, issues, and technologies of the asphalt pavement industry, road building, and research and innovation.
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Recent Podcast Episodes
S8E6 - Better management, better processes: Enhancing asphalt operations with specialized software
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.
S8E5 - Loader, no driver: Transforming plant operations with remote-operated autonomous loaders
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
S8E4 - Integrating technology at your plant without disrupting flow: Using aramid fibers in production
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
S8E3 - People, process, then technology: Unlocking operational efficiencies with AI
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!
S8E2 - Giving kids a test drive: Using simulators to recruit the industry’s next generation
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.
S8E1 - There's a synergy between technology and sustainability: Understanding digital solutions for asphalt
Description: 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 are enhancing sustainability in the asphalt 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!
Episode is sponsored by Astec Industries.
Season 7
Season seven of Pave It Black looks at the relationships between industry leaders and agency stakeholders by learning more about these vital Conversations from the Capital. Topics range from low carbon construction materials initiatives, how companies can get involved with the ENERGYSTAR program, and what NAPA's Government Affairs Team advocates for.
Season 6
In season six of NAPA’s flagship podcast, Pave It Black, Vice President of Engineering, Research, & Technology Richard Willis, PhD, and Director of Engineering & Technical Support Brett Williams explore groundbreaking projects and the people wielding the tools and power to break new ground. Topics range from emerging regulatory and legislative impacts like defining ‘environmentally preferred asphalt’ in episode one to diversifying the industry through affinity groups that recruit and support women and minorities not always readily identified with the industry in episode 10.
Season 5
Pave It Black's fifth season explores the people and technologies of the asphalt pavement industry and how they are working toward creating the future of net zero emissions pavement.
Season 4
Pave It Black rolls into its fourth season of exploring the people, issues, and technologies within the asphalt pavement industry. In Season Four, hosts Richard Willis and Brett Williams will focus on workforce opportunity, speaking with guests whose workplaces range from the corporate office to the work zone.
Season 3
Season 2
Season 1
Accelerating Asphalt Research
In this episode of Pave It Black, Richard and Brett talk with Navneet Garg of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about the research work he does at the William J Hughes Technical Center, the National Airport Pavement Test Facility (NAPTF), and the National Airport Pavement & Materials Research Center (NAPMRC) to continue to advance asphalt pavement innovation, performance, and sustainability.
Watch For Us
Richard and Brett talk with Emily Bay of Rieth-Riley Construction Co., Inc. about the role that communication plays in safety and how they share information with employees as well as the public.
The Asphalt Industry’s Highest Award
Richard and Brett talk with Scott Roe, Michael Terry, Derik Huber, and Ryan Booth of Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. about what it takes to win the highest award as well as what the award means to the company and its staff.
Partnering on Workforce
Richard and Brett talk with Jason Duininck of Duininck Inc, Jim Sieben of Nova-Tech Engineering, and Mike Kroeker of Willmar High School about the Manufacturing and Production (MAPs)program and how their organizations partner to help students learn about different career opportunities.
Closer Look: NAPA’s Ray Brown Airport Award
Richard and Brett talk with Chris Croom, with S.T. Wooten Corp., about recently winning the 2022 Ray Brown award as well as previous awards the company’s work has been recognized with.
Developing Relationships
Richard and Brett talk with John Hay, with CRH Americas Materials, about engaging with elected officials and how those interactions can impact how our industry does and the way we operate.