Agencies face significant challenges when pursuing a pavement preservation program. Equipment and material costs continue to rise, and local talent recruitment and retention are difficult. Yet, the Sheboygan County Transportation Department – Highway Division provides an excellent example of how to navigate these challenges and boldly steward public transportation infrastructure with remarkable success.  

The Sorenson Award 

In memory of beloved champion of pavement preservation, Jim Sorenson, FP2 Inc.’s James B. Sorenson Award for Excellence in Pavement Preservation recognizes superior pavement preservation practices of a local government agency, usually a city, township, county or state agency.   

The new year brings a brand-new LEAP (Leadership Education for Asphalt Preservation) class for 2024-2025. The LEAP program is intended for AEMA (Asphalt Emulsion Manufacturers Association) members looking to increase their knowledge of the asphalt emulsion industry. It is a 12-month immersive program that allows members to immerse themselves in the asphalt industry through facility/jobsite tours and other key learning opportunities. The classes kick off during the annual AEMA, ARRA and ISSA meetings and conclude at the meeting the following calendar year. 

Asphalt Materials’ very own Kim Gessner was named Class Dean for this year’s LEAP program. Zach Robinson and Jordan Vaughn, members from our division of companies under The Heritage Group, are also participants in this year’s program.