Student Innovative Asphalt Competition
Student Innovative Asphalt Competition at NCAT: Bridging Industry and Education
In late February, the Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida (ACAF) joined forces with the AAPT Student Chapter at Auburn University to host a Student Innovative Asphalt Competition at the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT). Originally invited to speak at a Lunch & Learn, ACAF members leveraged their planned NCAT visit to organize an evening event bringing students and industry professionals together for dinner, brainstorming, and fun.
Competition Format
Students were challenged to deliver a “Shark Tank–style” pitch related to asphalt or pavement construction. Each pitch had a strict 2-minute time limit, followed by 2 minutes of questions from the judges. Ideas could include:
- Innovative paving construction techniques
- New mix designs or materials
- Asphalt performance testing methods
- Asphalt equipment concepts
- Process improvements or creative solutions
Creativity was encouraged. Students were invited to think outside the box—even if ideas weren’t technically feasible today—and convince judges to “invest” in their concept.
Judges and Presentations
The panel of judges included:
- Steve McReynolds – Director of Operations, Duval Asphalt Products, Inc.
- Tim Carter – Director of Quality Control, CWR Contracting
- Patrick Pienkos – Quality Control Manager, Ranger Construction Industries
- David Allain – Technical Director, Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida
The event lasted over two hours, featuring a mix of fun, creative, and thought-provoking ideas from students. Additionally, guest presentations by Travis Walbeck, Assistant Director for Training and Outreach at NCAT, and David Allain provided insights and inspiration for the students.
Winners and Recognition
Students competed for cash prizes, and the top three winners were:
- 1st Place – Madhav Verma
- 2nd Place – Kevin Ambrose
- 3rd Place – Logan Close
Congratulations to the winners! ACAF thanks all students, judges, Auburn faculty, and members for making this a successful and enjoyable evening celebrating creativity and innovation in the asphalt industry.