LEAD-ING THE NEXT GENERATION Cody Sullivan, Area Manager, Virginia Paving Company The asphalt industry is faced with unprecedented change: a large-scale generational turnover, shifting societal norms, rapidly evolving technology, and increasingly complex networks of data, people, and resources. To maintain a foundation rooted in the principles that have made the industry strong and dynamic, we must be deliberate in equipping the next generation of leaders with the skills, network, and judgment necessary to propel the industry into the future. In 2023, the Leadership, Engagement, and Development (LEAD) Committee was founded by the Virginia Asphalt Association (VAA) to meet the needs of our industry. LEAD’s primary purpose is to cultivate rising leaders in the asphalt industry who are willing to serve as its stewards and drive progress while supporting the mission and goals of VAA. Navigating unprecedented challenges requires strong leaders who can provide a vision and unite people with different perspectives to work toward a common goal. The asphalt industry is no different. It takes education, mentorship, and practice for anyone to grow into a successful and trusted leader. That’s why LEAD committee members and affiliates will gain exposure to different leadership principles and styles, have access to a broad network of experienced industry leaders, and be given opportunities to stretch their abilities and share their experiences with peers. This will position LEAD members to ultimately step into the leadership roles and responsibilities of the association’s network. One of the strengths of VAA has always been the ability of its members to have frank conversations about the issues affecting the industry to drive meaningful progress, and that requires respect and trust. Whether through a technical training session, a committee meeting, a fundraiser golf tournament, or advocating with our legislators, these interactions allow members to form lasting friendships and strengthen critical business relationships that enrich the industry. Through its commitment to engagement, expect to see LEAD members taking an active role in these initiatives. Working with other committees, liaising with the VAA board, serving the members at large, and recruiting new members are some of the ways that LEAD intends to fulfill this obligation. The inaugural LEAD committee is filled with a diverse group of individuals who have already firmly established themselves in the industry and are excited to expand their influence and impact throughout the VAA network. Having established a strong vision, core values, and high-level goals for the committee, LEAD is currently developing strategic initiatives that will make a meaningful impact. So, what’s next? Your support! A Friends of LEAD affiliate group is on the horizon and will provide an opportunity for a broader network of VAA members to get involved, share their thoughts, and be a part of shaping the future of the industry and VAA. Stay tuned for announcements regarding upcoming events and opportunities to get involved through the VAA app, email, and social media. Finally, find us at the various VAA events this year. We’re excited to get to know you! 2023–24 LEAD Committee Members Cody Sullivan Virginia Paving Chair AJ Boyd Superior Paving Vice Chair Macklin Boone National Asphalt Secretary Ben Miller F.O. Day VAA Board Liason Tigre Fortune Virginia Asphalt Association VAA Staff Ally Glover Cargill Caroline Cahill Martin Marietta Materials Ethan Hensley S.L. Williamson Co. Josh Hopkins Virginia Paving Kevin Stewart Superior Paving Marie Greer Associated Asphalt Mathew Ciuros Chemung Contracting Matt Gutkaiss Asphalt Emulsion Mike Tyree Associated Asphalt Robert Ridgell Wallace Montgomery Tanner Taylor W-L Construction & Paving Travis Menefee ATCO Hauling Tyler Mitchell Superior Paving VAASPHALT.ORG 29
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