VAA Virginia Asphalt Fall/Winter 2021

06 FALL/WINTER 2021 Trenton M. Clark, PE, President, Virginia Asphalt Association Have you ever thought about the view Prancer and Vixen have while pulling Santa’s sleigh? They can see clearly to the left or right, but their view to the front never changes! All they see is the backside of Dasher and Dancer. So no matter where Prancer and Vixen may want to go, they go where Dasher and Dancer lead them. Today, we see profound and fast changes in our world and our industry. Many of these changes have been driven by tech- nology innovations meeting current needs or future desires. For example, look at the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the highways over the last decade. Elon Musk had a vision for EVs, and now all other car manufacturers have followed. In addition, in the previous six months, private industry has launched three crafts into space. While some have seen this as a competition to be the first billionaire in space, many recog- nize how the advancements from these efforts can benefit the world. Consider how many innovations came from America’s race to put a man in space, on the moon and the space shuttle in orbit. For the transportation industry, technol- ogy profoundly impacts how projects are developed, inspected and built. The automation used in self-driving quarry trucks to modeling the paving operations on a runway are examples of technologies in action. Private industry leaders recognize the need to be more efficient and improve quality by developing tools that support operations and, in some cases, replace a lost workforce. Instead of waiting for others, following the pack, or relying on the adage “that is the way we have always done it,” peo- ple and organizations are taking charge to Lead the Change . In this magazine, we will highlight the changes being led to improve the environ- ment. Many of the articles will highlight the advancements in asphalt technology result- ing in improved sustainability, increased resilience and cleaner water. Along with these advancements, the materials and pavements are performing at or beyond the designer’s expectations. Partnerships between industry and VDOT are a common theme in these articles. As we enter into 2022, I ask you to consider this question—do you want to maintain the status quo, or are you willing to lead PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE Lead the Change the change? Every person and organization can make that decision for each situation by weighing the risk. Some may say, “But I don’t hold a title that allows me to make the final decision on a project, design or tech- nology implementation.” However, authen- tic leadership is not a title but the ability to influence those around you. I hope you enjoy this issue of Virginia Asphalt and look forward to any thoughts you have. Stay safe! As we enter into 2022, I ask you to consider this question—do you want to maintain the status quo, or are you willing to lead the change?