[App] Conference (Descriptions)

APAM Annual Conference Session Descriptions

Paving the Future: Perspectives on Sustainability from the Asphalt Binder Industry (0.75 CEH)

Hear from Reed Ryan, the new President of AI, about current emissions research, innovative applications, and a newly released report analyzing the asphalt binder supply chain in a net zero world. Taken together, these initiatives paint a picture of the future of asphalt and where we are all headed together as an industry and the need for us to engage now on the innovations, policies, and approaches that will guide us for the generation to follow.

Compaction Fundamentals (0.75 CEH)

Join Tim Kowalski from Wirtgen Group as he delves into the fundamentals of asphalt compaction, emphasizing techniques that save time, conserve energy, and produce longer-lasting pavements. In this session, Tim will share expert insights on optimizing compaction processes to achieve superior pavement performance and durability. Attendees will learn about the latest equipment and methods that enhance efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and contribute to sustainable construction practices.
Tim will also discuss how mastering these fundamentals can lead to significant cost savings and potential bonuses for projects completed with exceptional quality. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge from an industry leader and elevate your asphalt compaction skills! This session is ideal for professionals looking to understand the principles of compaction for consistency and pavement longevity.

MDOT General Update (0.75 CEH)

Listen in as the Department provides a recap on the previous construction season and talks about the good, the bad and the opportunity. That will be followed up with an update/forecast on 2025 construction lettings as well as any new initiatives that the Department is beginning or planning to implement in the near future.

Why RAP (0.75 CEH)

Join Adam Hand from the University of Nevada, Reno, as he explores the significant benefits of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavements (RAP) for pavement owners. This session will delve into how RAP can enhance sustainability, reduce costs, and improve the performance of asphalt pavements. Adam will share insights from recent research and practical applications, highlighting the economic and environmental advantages of incorporating RAP into pavement projects.
Attendees will learn about the cost savings associated with RAP, including reduced material expenses and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The session will also cover best practices for utilizing RAP to achieve high-quality, durable pavements that meet modern performance standards.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge on how RAP can transform your pavement management strategies, making them more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. This session is ideal for pavement owners, engineers, and anyone interested in sustainable infrastructure solutions.

Baldly Bipartisan

Adrian Hemond, a Democrat, and John Sellek, a Republican, are two of Michigan's top political consultants and news analysts. They will go in-depth about what recent political outcomes mean. From the State House to the White House, they talk about what is happening in politics and why.
Politics can be cordial and funny and that's what John and Adrian do for audiences across the state.

MATC Introduction & Capabilities (0.75 CEH)

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Mobile Asphalt Technology Center (MATC) is a program whose mission it is to spread and encourage asphalt innovation within state transportation agencies and the paving industry. It includes an accredited asphalt laboratory that brings hands-on education, testing of materials, and demonstration of advanced tools to stakeholders on agency selected paving projects. The trailer is scheduled to be in Michigan during 2025 and be located on or near a paving project for a few weeks. Materials from other projects can also be sampled and tested. Potential projects will be confirmed early in 2025 as part of the planning process with MDOT. Sampling and testing materials, comparing results to those obtained by others, reviewing contract specifications, demonstrating state-of-the-art test equipment, hosting in-person sessions on pavement-related topics, and providing suggestions for possible improvements is some of what the program can provide. Hope to see you all during the visit!

Rubblization (0.75 CEH)

Discover the cost-effective and sustainable benefits of rubblization with Matt Shinners from Antigo Construction. This session will highlight how rubblization transforms deteriorated concrete pavements into a high-quality base for new asphalt overlays, significantly reducing costs and environmental impact. Matt will share the latest updates on the rubblization process as well as the best practices that make rubblization a preferred method for pavement rehabilitation. Attendees will learn about the economic advantages, sustainability aspects, and successful case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach.

NCAT Test Track Update (0.75 CEH)

Join Nathan Moore from the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) as he provides an in-depth update on the latest findings from the NCAT Test Track. This session will cover key insights and innovations presented at the 2024 Test Track Conference, highlighting the advancements made during the most recent research cycle. Nathan will discuss the practical implications of these findings for mix and materials, structural pavement design, and pavement preservation.
Attendees will learn about the impact of various additives on pavement life, balanced mix design, and innovative strategies for crack prevention and surface rejuvenation. Nathan will also share details about the reconstruction efforts undertaken during the summer of 2024, including updates to test sections and new experimental setups designed to push the boundaries of asphalt technology.
This session is a must-attend for professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of pavement research and implementation. Gain valuable knowledge on the latest trends and technologies that are shaping the future of asphalt pavements.
Don't miss this opportunity to hear directly from an NCAT expert and enhance your understanding of cutting-edge pavement solutions.

Recycling Agents: What You Need to Know (0.75 CEH)

As the industry continues to seek low carbon transportation materials (LCTMs), recycling agents are becoming essential in maintaining and even increasing pavement performance. In this session, Adam introduces the ever-increasing usage of recycling agents in asphalt pavements and provides a comprehensive overview of what recycling agents are, how they work, and their crucial role in modern pavement management. Adam will explain the science behind recycling agents, detailing their ability to rejuvenate aged asphalt and improve the performance of reclaimed asphalt pavements (RAP).
Attendees will learn about the benefits of recycling agents, including cost savings, enhanced pavement durability, and reduced environmental impact. This session will also highlight best practices and successful case studies, demonstrating the practical applications and long-term advantages of using recycling agents.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the future of sustainable pavement solutions. This session is ideal for pavement owners, engineers, and anyone interested in innovative approaches to infrastructure development.

MDOT Technical Update (0.75 CEH)

Back by popular demand, the Michigan Department of Transportation and APAM will discuss changes that impact the asphalt industry. Current topics that will be touched upon are the SMA specification, IPL process review, Laboratory Round Robins LCTM Grant and more! In addition, the conversation will include things that the Technical Committees is working to finish and plans to work on in the near future.

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