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/

Loader, no driver: Transforming plant operations with remote-operated autonomous loaders

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.

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

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.

Designing pavements in a changing world: How technology shapes asphalt in Europe

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/

Built to last: Enhancing productivity and sustainability through wear parts

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/

[Part 1] Paving the future: Achieving sustainability goals through technology and training

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!

[Part 2] Paving the future: Cold central plant recycling and 3D paving

Pave It Black is the official podcast of the National Asphalt Pavement Association. Since 2020, NAPA's Richard Willis and Brett Williams have sparked conversations about the people, issues, and technologies that drive the asphalt pavement industry forward. 

Stay tuned for Season 7: Conversations from the Capitol! Coming soon to all streaming platforms.

This track is not available anymore.

Other tracks from National Asphalt Pavement Association