20-Year VRAM Success Story: US-51

After decades of testing, J-Band®, the premier Void Reducing Asphalt Membrane (VRAM) from Asphalt Materials Inc. (AMI), is the proven innovation that dramatically reduces the age-old problem of longitudinal joint deterioration. Take a look back with us at one of the first projects to incorporate this game-changing asphalt product.

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States. It accounts for about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new female cancers yearly.  Even though it is more common in women, men can also develop breast cancer. About 1 out of every 100 breast cancer cases are found in men in the U.S. That is why spreading awareness is crucial in promoting early detection, educating people about prevention, and supporting fundraising efforts that drive research. 

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AMI Supports Nationwide Buckle Up Phone Down Campaign

Join the movement! The Buckle Up, Phone Down campaign is a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting road safety by encouraging drivers to adopt two critical habits: always wear a seatbelt and put cell phones down while driving. This initiative first began in 2017 by the Missouri Department of Transportation. Since then, several states have adopted this initiative including Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio, Louisiana and more.  

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Employee Spotlight: Darin Wendt, Portage Wisconsin Logistics Manager

We are excited to feature Darin Wendt, who has dedicated thirteen years as a logistics manager!

Before working at Asphalt Materials, Darin worked as a fleet manager for a large feed mill servicing areas in Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa and Minnesota. His job as a fleet manager provided him with many transferable skills that he now applies in his current position.

Darin currently works at our Portage, Wisconsin, location at H.G. Meigs, LLC. He enjoys seeing AMI products being implemented in projects, from distributor crews spraying emulsion with chip seal or drivers hauling product to customers.

Darin oversees a team of truck drivers and mechanics at both our Portage and Abbotsford, Wisconsin, locations. He also leads the staffing and execution of our Meigs Advantage & Transport operations. It is important to him and his team that they get the loads of products delivered promptly and safely.

“Darin brings a lot to the table in our Wisconsin market when it comes to our logistics program,” said AMI Director of Logistics Tyler Trent. “He is always willing to hop in a truck himself to help deliver our business in times of need. I am happy to have Darin as part of our logistics team and proud of the impact he delivers in our Wisconsin market.”

Darin works closely with Plant Manager Garrett Barquist at the Eau Claire location and Plant Manager Brent Faber at the Abbotsford location. Together they help mitigate any potential problems and ensure there are enough resources available for customer orders.

At the Portage plant, Darin works closely with Business Delivery Manager Rachel Yates and Plant Operator Jerry Griffin.

“Rachel has a great relationship with many of our customers and can receive information on upcoming jobs that may require additional trucking while Jerry has been with Meigs for over 42 years and has an amazing ability to adjust on the fly,” said Darin. “With one phone call our dispatch board can change dramatically, and Jerry can sort everything out calmly and methodically. We have a great team at Meigs, from our awesome mechanics to our dedicated drivers everyone is willing to step up to the plate when it’s their turn.”

Pictured from left to right are Darin Wendt, Derek Puhl, Jerry Griffin and Rachel Yates.

“Darin is a quiet but powerful force behind our logistics in Wisconsin, and his knowledge and experience make him a clear standout on the team,” said Heritage Construction + Materials Compliance Manager Samantha Komperda. “What I have enjoyed most about working with him is his straightforward approach to sharing knowledge and his dedication to boldly advocating for the group he leads. Because of his hands-on experience in transportation and logistics, he is uniquely situated to make sense of the issues the logistics team faces and continues to share his experience in a way that drives the entire team forward.”

Over the years, Darin learned that adapting to changing circumstances and responding quickly are great skills. He has also learned never to underestimate experience and to learn from the people who are doing the work. What drives Darin most in his career is his family, his wife Kelly and son Brock.

Darin Wendt’s dedication and expertise have significantly impacted our logistics team. We look forward to seeing his future accomplishments and the continued success he will bring to the organization. Thank you, Darin, for your outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication!

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The New Year Marks the Start of AEMA’s 2024-2025 LEAP Class

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.  

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