AASHTO re:source Q & A Podcast

Season five wraps up with hosts Brian Johnson and Kim Swanson reflecting on the season and the ever-evolving podcast itself. This shorter season marked a shift from weekly to biweekly episodes, prompting honest conversations about the sustainability and future direction of AASHTO re:source Q&A podcast.The hosts highlight memorable conversations with industry experts, including beloved guest Bryce Hanlon from Oklahoma DOT and Matt Lineman from North Dakota DOT, who shared valuable insights on committee participation and building positive professional relationships. Kim particularly enjoyed discussing the "four eyes of the corrective action process," diving into quality theory while maintaining their trademark touch of humor that makes complex concepts accessible.Throughout the episode, Brian and Kim make a heartfelt plea for listener feedback—a resource more valuable than download metrics. They're particularly curious about their international audience, wondering about listeners from Ukraine and Kenya who've reached out in previous seasons. The mystery of who's listening and what content resonates most strongly echoes a common challenge in quality management: determining whether efforts truly address stakeholder needs. This transparency about their own continuous improvement journey mirrors the very processes they discuss with laboratories.Looking ahead, Brian announces his participation in the upcoming Technical Exchange in Bellevue, Washington (March 17-20, 2025), where he'll lead panel discussions and possibly record content for future episodes. With season six on the horizon after this hiatus, the hosts invite you to explore their extensive back catalog of over 40 episodes per season from their first four seasons. Email podcast@aashtoresource.org with your thoughts, questions, or to simply let them know the juice is indeed worth the squeeze.Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Dive into our latest episode as we explore the critical need for laboratories to evolve from mere compliance to a thriving culture of continual improvement. Brian Johnson shares valuable insights from the recent Mid-Atlantic Quality Assurance Workshop, highlighting a new strategic roadmap aimed at enhancing operational practices within laboratories. Throughout the episode, we address the pivotal role that AASHTO plays in guiding laboratories towards adherence to rigorous standards, emphasizing that compliance is just the beginning. We underscore the importance of understanding the root causes of nonconformities and foster a proactive mentality that seeks systemic solutions over temporary fixes. Listeners will appreciate the actionable examples provided, including how to utilize proficiency sample data for setting realistic quality objectives. With a focus on collaboration, Brian stresses the necessity for communication among all stakeholders involved, paving the way for a unified approach to quality management.This episode speaks directly to laboratory managers and quality assurance professionals seeking to enhance their practices. Are you ready to elevate your lab's standards? Tune in to learn how to integrate continuous improvement into your quality framework effectively. Don't forget to subscribe and share; let's foster a community committed to excellence in laboratory quality!Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

We dive into the 2025 AASHTO re:source Technical Exchange with insights from key planners Bob Lutz and Tracy Barnhart.  This episode focuses on the event's unique structure, networking opportunities, and targeted sessions for various professional roles. Attendees can expect valuable insights, interactive experiences, and assurance of fresh content during the event on March 17-20, 2025 in Bellevue, WA. Learn more on our website: https://aashtoresource.org/events Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Oklahoma DOT's Bryce Hanlon brings his proactive approach to geotechnical engineering processes. In this follow-up episode to S4 E07, he discusses the importance of effective communication, data management modernization, and how a unified team approach enhances project delivery and efficiency.Related information: S4 E07: Geotechnical Investigations at Oklahoma DOTSend us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Have you heard about the new AASHTO Accreditation Program policy on masonry unit and prism testing? Discover the historical context beginning with the 2019 updates to the ASTM C1716 standard for compression testing machines that left some labs wondering if their compression machines are compliant. This discussion reveals how labs are now categorized based on their capacity to test full-size versus reduced-size specimens. Our exploration unpacks how these distinctions simplify the process for clients and agencies seeking specific testing capabilities.Our conversation also zeroes in on the prohibition against accrediting labs that only test masonry "coupons." Uncover the rationale behind this decision and why it's crucial for maintaining high-quality standards in the industry. Plus, learn how providing detailed documentation before your assessment can streamline the accreditation process, saving labs time and resources by cutting down on follow-up visits. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the requirements of ASTM C140, C1314, and C1716.Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

In the final part of this series, uncover the essential subsections of Section 3.5 of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual. Our exploration reveals the significance of independence of judgment, the importance of transparency in conflict scenarios, and how demonstrated job performance can outweigh formal education in personnel qualifications. Discover the historical context and evolution of temperature guidelines and learn how labs can navigate unexpected challenges, like seasonal shutdowns while maintaining accreditation. The conversation also spotlights the need for clear definitions and the role of standards development organizations in addressing ambiguities. Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Unlock the secrets of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual with us as we dissect Section 3.5. Navigate the critical responsibilities of accredited laboratories in reporting significant changes within 60 days, per section 3.5.1. We break down what constitutes a 'major change' and highlight our role and the potential sanctions for non-compliance. Learn more as we go through the first half of Section 3.5, in part one of this two-part series. Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

What if the dreaded corrective action process could be transformed into a beacon of opportunity? Join us as we introduce and explore the "Four I's of the Corrective Action Process" concept. This fresh approach transforms common sense ideas into a memorable strategy that enhances the understanding of the process while keeping continual improvement as its focus. Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

This episode explores the development and significance of the new AASHTO R 119 standard, officially titled “Standard Practice for Grinding the Ends of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens.” Brian shares his firsthand experience in creating this standard, highlighting the collaborative efforts with various state DOTs and the importance of standardizing concrete practices. Listeners will learn why AASHTO R 119 is crucial for those working with ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and how it addresses the limitations of traditional capping methods.The episode also looks at the broader implications of AASHTO R 119, including its potential integration into other key standards like AASHTO T 24, ASTM C31, and ASTM C39. We also discuss how AASHTO R 119 moved from a provisional to a full standard and the ongoing efforts to promote its adoption across the industry.Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

This burning question is at the heart of our latest episode, where we unravel the complexities of choosing the right organization for aggregate and rebar evaluations. We navigate the nuanced scopes of CCRL and AASHTO re:source, addressing why each offers these services and how customer demand has fostered an overlap.Explore the essentials of proficiency sample programs and the critical distinctions in assessment services—CCRL's focus on specific testing methods versus AASHTO's broader coverage. Dive into strategic insights for laboratories, empowering you to make informed decisions in the assessment process.Our conversation also uncovers the financial and logistical factors pivotal to selecting your assessment provider. We spotlight the hidden costs and timing implications that can affect your lab's operations. Learn how to navigate the intricacies of obtaining estimates, and understand why timing is everything when it comes to maintaining AASHTO Accreditation without a hitch.Related information:aashtoresource.org/aapccrl.usSend us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Unlock the secrets of effective laboratory monitoring with insights from Greg Uherek, Manager of Business Development and Technical Services. Greg sheds light on the specifier feature of the AASHTO re:source website, a game-changer for agencies that require AASHTO Accreditation like DOTs and California's Division of the State Architect. Journey through the evolution of laboratory monitoring from outdated methods to the cutting-edge specifier tools that enhance transparency and accountability. Greg takes us through the transformation, revealing how features like mapping and real-time alerts have made lab monitoring more intuitive and effective. Learn how these specifiers streamline oversight, ensuring labs comply with stringent testing standards. Discover why this tool is indispensable for public and private entities aiming for efficiency and compliance.Related information: aashtoresource.org/specifiersaashtoresource.org/eventsYouTube videoCompanion articleSend us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

What's the secret to engaging volunteers and fostering a supportive, inclusive committee environment? Find out as we welcome Matt Linneman, Chief Engineer for North Dakota DOT and Chair of the Committee on Materials and Pavements (COMP), along with AASHTO liaison Casey Soneira. We discuss effective volunteer engagement, from creating psychological safety to micro-engagements that encourage wider participation. They share thoughts on succession planning, the balance between industry and academic leadership roles, and future committee initiatives, including shifts in meeting formats to boost peer exchanges and best practice sharing.  This conversation underscores the importance of stakeholder involvement and the challenges of managing a 6,000-page annual publication filled with detailed materials standards. Whether you're a state volunteer, industry member, or academic, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights into the workings of COMP, now and for years to come.Read this episode's companion article or watch the video on YouTube.Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Ever wondered how and why a new proficiency sample scheme was created? Special guests John Malusky and Ryan LaQuay join hosts Brian Johnson and Kim Swanson to reveal the meticulous planning process behind the Hamburg Wheel Tracking samples, a groundbreaking addition to AASHTO re:source's Proficiency Sample Program. Hear firsthand accounts of the logistical challenges faced during its development, the steps taken to prevent segregation, and the lessons learned from pilot studies with DOTs that highlight the critical importance of well-blended materials.Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Transform your organization's approach to quality with Benjamin's strategies for engaging and empowering the workforce. Empowering employees with responsibility and capability at the ground level can operationalize quality, ensuring that processes like equipment maintenance and accurate data reporting are meticulously followed. Benjamin shares how transparency and stakeholder involvement can shift the mindset from viewing new processes as burdensome to seeing them as opportunities for improvement. Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

This episode reveals laboratories' most common pitfalls with implementing AASHTO R 18, such as calibration record-keeping, training and competency evaluation, and internal audits. Learn how to sidestep these issues by implementing robust quality management practices. Listen in to transform your laboratory practices and get tips to move beyond standard compliance.Send us a Text Message.Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

What if your organization could lead a quality management revolution? Join us as we explore AASHTO re:source's roadmap for 2024 to 2027 with Bob Lutz, the Director of AASHTO re:source. Bob shares the inspiration and process behind this ambitious strategy, which aims to transform the construction materials, testing, and inspection industry. Learn how identifying key stakeholders and understanding their needs laid the foundation for a bold vision and mission that promises to shift the paradigm from compliance to excellence.In our conversation, Bob delves into the collaborative approach that defined AASHTO re:source's mission, vision, and values. We discuss the strategic objectives that prioritize leading by example, building trust, and fostering continual improvement, all while holding safety, integrity, and inclusivity at the core. Discover exciting plans for educational content and innovative use of proficiency testing data to better serve customers. This episode provides insights into how this dynamic roadmap can propel AASHTO re:source and its stakeholders toward unparalleled success. Don't miss it!Related Information: https://aashtoresource.org/qualitySend us a Text Message.Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Curious about what's in store for this season? Get ready for an array of compelling topics covering common findings in standards like R18, new proficiency sample programs, and essential equipment maintenance tips. This episode kicks off with a promise of enriched content quality, a new bi-weekly release schedule, and a sneak peek into potential video episodes. With over 160 episodes in our archive, we're dedicated to making this new season as informative and engaging as ever. We also share some behind-the-scenes fun, including a mix-up with our podcast email that kept us on our toes. Your suggestions shape our content, so tune in and contribute to our mission of delivering top-notch content!Send us a Text Message.Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

We share some of the highlights from this past season and explain why we take a break in March and April (spoiler, it's because of the AASHTO re:source Technical Exchange).Related information:AASHTO re:source EventsThe Stream by AASHTO: A Conversation with AASHTO President, Craig ThompsonS4 E05: Paving with Recycled Plastic - Hawaii's Pilot Project - Part 4S4 E07: Geotechnical Investigations at Oklahoma DOTS4 E10: Soft Skills: Dealing with StressS4 E15: Talking Balanced Mix Design with Illinois DOTS4 E16: Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and the CO DOTS4 E22: Soft Skills: Goal Setting - Part 2

We share the audio from January 2024's webinar "A Behind-the-scenes Look at Assessment Scheduling." Related informaiton: AASHTO re:university Webinar Series: A Behind-the-scenes Look at Assessment Schedulinghttp://aashtoresource.org/lap 

Get a high-level overview of why a laboratory's AASHTO Accreditation is not an "umbrella" accreditation that extends to other locations. Related information:S1 E13: FAQ - Mobile Lab AccreditationS1 E16: Understanding Technician Certification RequirementsS1 E35: FAQ - AASHTO Accreditation Directory S1 E37: FAQ - Multi-Site and Off-Site PersonnelS2 E09:  FAQ - Can I back-date my accreditation to when I received my assessment? S2 E20: Terminology - Accreditation, Certification, and Related TermsS2 E37: FAQ - Field Tests and ASTM E329 (Concrete) AASHTO Accreditation Policy on Mobile LaboratoriesAASHTO Accreditation Policy and Guidance on Temporary LaboratoriesTemporary Facility Accreditation Extension FormWhat's the Difference? Accreditation, Certification, and Related TermsAASHTO Accreditation Policy and Guidance on Multi-Site PersonnelMulti-Site or Off-Site Personnel Form

We go through Brian's inbox to answer some of the questions he's been asked recently. Related information:S3 E17: From the Cutting Room Floor - Consensus Standards S2 E19: FAQ - Refusal of ServiceS1 E39: FAQ - Policy for New Lab Internal Audits and Management ReviewsS1 E31: FAQ - How long does it take to get accredited? AASHTO re:university Webinar Series: A Behind the Scenes Look at Assessment SchedulingAASHTO Accreditation Policy and Guidance on Refusal of ServiceSpecifiers

How familiar are you with fine and coarse aggregate specific gravity tests? Does your knowledge surpass Kim's? It's not difficult, but find out as we discuss some of the most common nonconformities for AASHTO T 84/ASTM C128 and AASTHO T 85/ASTM C127.Related information: Common Findings In Aggregate TestingS4 E34: Common Findings in Aggregate Testing - Part 1S2 E31: Top Nonconformities for AASHTO T84 and ASTM C128Top Nonconformities AASHTO T84 and ASTM C128S2 E05: FAQ - Which report findings are required to be resolved?How to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report Findings

Have Kim's guesses of common nonconformities improved as we move along in this series? Find out how she does as we discuss some of the most common nonconformities during aggregate testing in regards to general equipment, AASHTO T 11/ASTM C117 and AASHTO T 27/ASTM C136.Related information:S4 E32: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments: ASTM C138, C172, C173, C231, C617, C1231S4 E18: FAQ - What is the difference between an observation and a nonconformity?S3 E34: Sieve Requirements and ASTM E11S2 E05: FAQ - Which report findings are required to be resolved?Behind the Screens: Determining the Sufficiency of Mechanical Sieving DevicesSieves: Making the Grade, Part ISieves: Making the Grade, Part 2Balances 101How to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report FindingsAASHTO re:source Policy and Guidance on Go-No-Go Gauges 

While the policy on how to publicize your AASHTO Accreditation hasn't really changed, how it is being enforced recently did. We discuss what this means for AASHTO Accredited laboratories. Related informaiton:  AASHTO Accreditation Policy on Publicizing Accreditation S2 E07: FAQ - Publicizing AASHTO Accreditation AASHTO Accreditation DirectoryFalse Claims of Accreditation

In this "Common Findings" episode, we continue with the concrete series and discuss ASTM C138, C172, C173, C231, C617, and C1231.  As a refresher, in this series, Kim blindly tries to guess some of the most common nonconformities in concrete assessment reports, and then Brian shares the actual findings and some possible ways to resolve them. Related information: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C138, C172, C173, C231, C617, C1231 companion documentS4 E29: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C31, C39, C78, C511 S4 E26: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C1077S4 E18: FAQ - What is the difference between an observation and a nonconformity?S3 E10: Common Concrete Nonconformities S2 E05: FAQ - Which report findings are required to be resolved?How to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report Findings

John, Ryan, and Joe join us once again, this time to discuss the recent Performance Graded Asphalt Binder, Viscosity Graded Asphalt Cement, and  Slurry and Micro Systems samples. Related information: S4 E27:  November PSP Insights - Unmodified Emulsified Asphalt and PaintS4 E20:  October PSP Insights - Aggregate Gradation and GravityS4 E14:  August PSP Insights - Polymer-Modified Emulsified AsphaltS4 E13: August PSP Insights - Gyratory S4 E12: August PSP Insights - Marshall and HveemS4 E06: June PSP Insights (PGB and BAC)S4 E03: May PSP InsightsS3 E30: November PSP InsightsS3 E23: September PSP InsightsS3 E15: July PSP InsightsS2 E29: The Proficiency Sample Program Participation Guide and Prerequisites for Accreditation 

Learn who, what, where, why, and when we can share specific customer information.Related information:AASHTO re:source Policy on ConfidentialityS2 E28: FAQ - Mail Call!S2 E15: What is the ATG?S1 E35: FAQ - AASHTO Accreditation Directory

Continuing the "Common Findings" series, with no context, Kim guesses the most common nonconformity in concrete assessment reports for ASTM C31, C39, C78, and C511. Then Brian shares a few of the real common findings for those standards and some general tips on how to resolve them.Related information: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C31, C39, C78, C511 companion documentHow to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report FindingsThe Cure for the Cure: A Guide to ASTM C511 and Your Curing FacilitiesS4 E26: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C1077 S4 E18: FAQ - What is the difference between an observation and a nonconformity?S2 E13: FAQ - License PE Requirements S2 E05: FAQ - Which report findings are required to be resolved?S1 E12: Curing Facilities - ASTM C511 and AASHTO M 201

We are giving listeners a sneak peek into the planning of the 2024 AASHTO re:source Technical Exchange and sharing details about what they can expect from this unique industry event. Related information: aashtoresource.org/events 

John and Joe join us to discuss the most recent Unmodified Emulsified Asphalt and Paint sample rounds. Related Information: S3 E30 November PSP Insights (2022)http://aashtoresource.org/psp/schedulehttp://aashtoresource.org/psp/reportshttp://aashtoresource.org/psp/sample-round-analysis

In this "Family Feud" type episode, Kim tries to guess the most common nonconformity in concrete assessment reports for ASTM C1077. Then Brian shares a few of the real common findings for that standard and some general tips on how to resolve them.Related information: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C1077 companion documentHow to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report FindingsAssessment Corrective Action Report FormProficiency Sample Corrective Action Report FormS1 E15: FAQ - How and when do I respond to low ratings?S1 E16: Understanding Technician Certification RequirementsS1 E19: FAQ - Does my Laboratory Manager have to be a Professional Engineer?S2 E04: FAQ - How many times can I try to resolve the same nonconformity?S2 E05: FAQ - Which report findings are required to be resolvedS2 E13: FAQ - License PE RequirementsS2 E19: FAQ - Refusal of ServiceS2 E30: Top Nonconformities of AASHTO T209 and ASTM D2041S2 E31: Top Nonconformities for AASHTO T84 and ASTM C128S2 E35: Top Nonconformities for AASHTO T 315 and ASTM D7175S2 E37: FAQ - Field Tests and ASTM E329 (Concrete)S2 E42: Top Nonconformities for AASHTO T 59S3 E02: Reports and RecordsS3 E10: Common Concrete Nonconformities S4 E18: FAQ - What is the difference between an observation and a nonconformity?

We look into the AASHTO Accreditation Program's recent internal audit to share insights as to how the process has added value to the program and organization. Related InformationS4 E24: The Value of Internal Audits - Part 1February 2023 Webinar - Internal Audits: What's the Point?S3 E7: Internal Audits - Back to BasicsS3 E3: Internal Audit Awareness Month - Who Can Perform Internal Audits?S2 E24: Taken from TechEx: Internal Audits: The Focus on ImprovementS2 E12: Conducting Effective Internal AuditsS1 E39: FAQ - Policy for New Lab Internal Audits and Management ReviewsS1 E28: Management Review Extended Q & AInternal Auditing: Just the Facts, Ma'am!S2 E15: What is the ATG?

We are joined by AASHTO re:source Quality Manager, Tracy Barnhart to cover some of the basics of conducting an internal audit and how the process is valuable to individuals and organizations. Related InformationFebruary 2023 Webinar - Internal Audits: What's the Point?S3 E7: Internal Audits - Back to BasicsS3 E3: Internal Audit Awareness Month - Who Can Perform Internal Audits?S2 E24: Taken from TechEx: Internal Audits: The Focus on ImprovementS2 E12: Conducting Effective Internal AuditsS1 E39: FAQ - Policy for New Lab Internal Audits and Management ReviewsS1 E28: Management Review Extended Q & AInternal Auditing: Just the Facts, Ma'am!AASHTO re:source ISO/IEC 17025 Assessment: What to Expect and Tips to Prepare

We share audio from the October 19, 2023 webinar Benefits of a Corporate Quality Management System (QMS) Review.   Senior Quality Analyst, Trudy Eckstine covers the basics of if an AASHTO re:source corporate QMS review is right for your laboratory. Related information: Complete Webinar Recording: https://youtu.be/odHZLzSJhSI?si=K7Wo4R65mvxajldWPolicy and Guidance on Corporate Quality Management System (QMS) Reviews Corporate QMS Review Request Form

We share 8 brainstorming questions to help you set more effective goals and discuss how these questions would be tweaked based on if you are setting personal or professional/organizational goals.Related information:S4 E21: Soft Skills: Goal Setting Part 1S4 E10: Soft Skills: Dealing with StressS3 E18: Soft Skills: Authentic Networking

We discuss the basics of personal and professional goal setting (including SMART, HARD, and DUMB goals), as well as the role personal and organizational values play in creating effective goals.Related information:S4 E10: Soft Skills: Dealing with StressS3 E18: Soft Skills: Authentic Networking

John Malusky and Ryan LaQuay from the Proficiency Sample Program (PSP) join us to discuss the results of the recent Aggregate Gradation and Gravity samples 3 and 4. Plus, share in our excitement as we discover the benefits of using slide lock bags in the PSP packaging process. Related information:S4 E14: S4 E14: August PSP Insights - Polymer-Modified Emulsified AsphaltS4 E13: August PSP Insights - GyratoryS4 E 12: August PSP Insights - Marshall and HveemI Received A Low PSP Score, What Next?S3 E23: September PSP Insights

We want your feedback! Head over to the  AASHTO re:source LinkedIn page and answer the current poll.  We want to know what types of podcast episodes you want to hear more of in the future.  

Some people call them gigs, docks, dings, notes, or deficiencies. CCRL calls them footnotes. AASHTO re:source calls them findings and classifies findings into 2 categories: observations and nonconformities. We learn the differences and discuss some best practices on how to resolve them. Related Information: How to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report FindingsAssessment Corrective Action Report FormS1 E25: FAQ - Policy on Resolving Findings During the AssessmentS2 E05: FAQ - Which report findings are required to be resolved?http://aashtoresource.org/contact-ushttp://aashtoresource.org/aap/faqs

We learn how, and why changes are made to the AASHTO re:source Proficiency Sample Program. Plus get a sneak peek at some potential changes coming soon. Related information:S4 E13:  August PSP Insights - Gyratoryaashtoresource.org/psp

Craig Wieden, from Colorado DOT, joins us to discuss Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and shares insights into implementing EPD requirements for material used in projects throughout the state.Related information: https://www.codot.gov/business/designsupport/materials-and-geotechnical/epdhttps://www.asphaltpavement.org/programs/napa-programs/emerald-eco-label

Brian Pfeifer and Brian Hill from the Illinois DOT, join us to talk about developing a balanced mix design program in their state. Related information:Testing Protocols to Ensure Performance of High Asphalt Binder Replacement Mixes Using RAP and RASDevelopment of Long-Term Aging Protocol for Implementation of the Illinois Flexibility Index Test (I-FIT) Utilizing Lab Tests To Predict Asphalt Concrete Overlay Performance Positive Practices, Lessons Learned, and Challenges When Implementing Balanced Design of Asphalt Mixtures: Site Visits Tech Brief: Balanced Asphalt Mix Design: Eight Tasks for Implementation Case Studies on the Implementation of Balanced Mix Design and Performance Tests for Asphalt Mixtures: Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) North Central Peer Exchange on Balanced Mix Design (BMD): Outcomes Summary:  Seven States from the North Central U.S. gathered for a peer exchange and discussion on implementation activities to support Balanced Mix Design (BMD)

Yes. Another PSP Insights episode this month. We dive into the Polymer-Modified Emulsified Asphalt sample round results and the lessons learned after this first round. Related information: S4 E13: August PSP Insights - GyratoryS4 E 12: August PSP Insights - Marshall and HveemI Received A Low PSP Score, What Next?

We get insights into the Asphalt Mixture Gyratory 55/56 sample rounds and share some tips to avoid common issues labs may encounter when running these tests.Related information: S4 E12:  August PSP Insights - Marshall and HveemUnboxing AASHTO re:source Proficiency Sample: Asphalt Mixtures Gyratory Design - HMG 55-56I Received A Low PSP Score, What Next?

John, Ryan, and Joe are back to discuss the most recent Asphalt Mixture Marshall and Hveem proficiency samples. This was the first year the Hveem sample was separated by compaction method - what does that mean for your lab, and what did we learn?Related information: Changes to the Asphalt Mixture Hveem Design Samples Francis Hveem Testing the Limits of His AbilitiesUnboxing AASHTO re:source Proficiency Sample: Asphalt Mixtures Marshall & Hveem Designs

Sonya Puterbaugh, Laboratory Assessment Program Director, gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how her team schedules assessments for over 2,000 laboratories. Plus, she answers the question "Can we always have our assessment in the off-season?"Related information:S1 E07: FAQ - What happens after an assessment? S1 E21: FAQ - Who needs to be present during the assessment?S1 E23: FAQ - What if I need to postpone my assessment? S1 E27: FAQ - How can I prepare for an assessment?S1 E29: FAQ - What occurs during an assessment?

We get up close and personal in the episode, sharing some of our recent experiences with stress and our go-to coping strategies.  While we're no experts, hopefully, we can give you some tips on how you can deal with stress (or at least you can learn from our mistakes).

The outgoing Director of CMRL, Steve Lenker, joins us to discuss his career and some lessons he's learned along the way.  Plus, Brian shares some of the lessons he's learned from Steve.Related information: AASHTO re:source and CCRL: Two Organizations, One Mission

We are deep into the weeds in this episode, discussing false claims of accreditation process and how to use the AASHTO Accreditation logo correctly.  Related information: AASHTO Accreditation Policy and Guidance on False Claims of AccreditationAASHTO Accreditation Policy and Guidance on Refusal of ServiceAASHTO Accreditation Policy on Publicizing Accreditationhttps://www.aashtostaging.org/aap/false-claims/S2 E7: FAQ- Publicizing AASHTO AccreditationS3 E27: From the Cutting Room Floor - Down a Rabbit HoleS2 E20: Terminology - Accreditation, Certification, and Related TermsS2 E36: On the Road - NTPEP Part 1S2 E38:  On the Road - NTPEP Part 2S2 E40: On the Road - NTPEP Part 3Why is AASHTO Accreditation important to the construction materials testing industry? [VIDEO]

We are joined by Siv Sundaram and Bryce Hanlon with the Oklahoma DOT to learn about how their geotechnical investigation processes are evolving. Related information: https://oklahoma.gov/odot.htmlhttps://transportation.org/materials/

John, Ryan, and Joe are back again. This time to discuss the most recent Viscosity Graded Asphalt Cement and Performance Graded Asphalt Binder proficiency sample rounds and results. We also dive into why the samples are shipped twice a year and what happens to all of the optional data that is collected. Related information: S4 E03: May PSP InsightsS3 E30: November PSP InsightsS3 E23: September PSP InsightsS3 E15: July PSP InsightsS3 E06: Digging into Soil Classification and Compaction Samples 185/186S2 E29: The Proficiency Sample Program Participation Guide and Prerequisites for AccreditationS2 E22: Taken from TechEx: Hydrometer Analysis of Fine-Grained SoilsS1 E30: Inside PSP with Guest Host, Oak MetcalfeS1 E24: The transition from ASTM D422 to D6913 and D7928S1 E15: FAQ - How and when do I respond to low ratings? S1 E02: Dealing with Repeat Low Ratings