Press Release: PAAMA Hosts Successful First Regional Trainings in Pennsylvania

Fostering Education and Excellence in Pavement Preservation and Asphalt Recycling

The Pennsylvania Association of Asphalt Material Applicators (PAAMA) recently held its first regional training sessions from May 20th to May 22nd at Hyatt Place in Allentown, Pennsylvania. This landmark event marks a significant step in PAAMA’s mission to provide educational opportunities and foster collaboration among Pennsylvania agencies and professionals in the asphalt industry.

A Model of Leadership and Initiative

Ken Messina, President of Asphalt Paving Systems and the current leader of PAAMA, has made education the central focus of his tenure. Now serving his second term as PAAMA President, Ken has worked tirelessly to ensure that agencies across Pennsylvania have access to quality training and resources. His commitment to advancing pavement preservation and asphalt recycling techniques has been the driving force behind PAAMA’s educational initiatives.

The association’s Executive Director, Rex Eberly, has played a crucial role in coordinating and managing the logistics for these events. Together, Ken, Rex and the PAAMA Board of Directors are shaping PAAMA into Pennsylvania’s top resource for pavement preservation and asphalt recycling.

Comprehensive Training Sessions

The three-day event offered distinct training opportunities tailored to different audiences.

Days 1 and 2: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PENNDOT)

The first two days of the event were dedicated to PENNDOT, with over 100 employees from Districts 4, 5, 6, and 8 participating. Day 1 featured instruction from the Asphalt Emulsion Manufacturers Association (AEMA) education team, led by Scott Dmytrow. The session, titled “An Owner’s Manual for Your Pavement Network,” provided attendees with crucial insights into managing pavement systems effectively.

Day 2 showcased PAAMA’s expertise with 11 presentations focused on preservation and recycling techniques. Members of PAAMA led discussions on processes such as Microsurfacing, Seal Coat, Crack Seal, Slurry Seal, Cape Seal, Hot Pour Mastic, Ultra Thin Bonded Wearing Course, Fog Seal, and Fiberized Chip Seal. These strategies, aimed at extending the service life of asphalt pavements, were presented as environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternatives to traditional paving methods.

Day 3: Local Agency Training

The third day was reserved exclusively for local agencies in the region, attracting over 70 professionals. A repeat of “An Owner’s Manual for Your Pavement Network” by AEMA ensured that these agencies received the same high-quality instruction as their PENNDOT counterparts. The inclusion of local agencies underscores PAAMA’s commitment to serving a broad spectrum of stakeholders within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Acknowledgments and Partnerships

Ken Messina and the PAAMA Board of Directors express gratitude to PENNDOT Chief Executive Jonathan Eboli for his support in approving the training sessions and delivering opening remarks. Special thanks were also extended to Andrew Firment for his instrumental role in spreading the word through PENNDOT’s Maintenance Department.

Additionally, the board recognizes the efforts of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS) and the Regional Public Works Associations for their assistance in promoting the local agency training day. These partnerships highlight PAAMA’s collaborative approach to advancing pavement preservation and asphalt

recycling across Pennsylvania.

Ongoing Commitment to Education

Under Ken’s leadership, PAAMA has successfully hosted numerous educational workshops, including sessions for the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS), PENNDOT District 5 Winter School, PENNDOT Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP), and PENNDOT’s Municipal Advisory Committee. The association has also contributed to the PENNDOT Maintenance Executive Conference and is slated to participate in the upcoming PSATS Public Works Expo.

PAAMA is dedicated to educating agencies on the benefits of pavement preservation processes, including Microsurfacing, Seal Coat, Crack Seal, Slurry Seal, Cape Seal, Hot Pour Mastic, Ultra Thin Bonded Wearing Course, Fog Seal, and Fiberized Chip Seal. The association also advocates for asphalt recycling techniques such as Cold in Place Recycling and Full Depth Reclamation. These methods not only extend the service life of pavements but also offer cost-effective and environmentally sustainable solutions.

A Bright Future Ahead

As PAAMA continues to grow under Ken Messina’s leadership, the association remains steadfast in its mission to provide educational resources and promote new technologies and innovative practices. PAAMA’s efforts are supported by Asphalt Paving Systems and we commend Ken for his dedication and passion for advancing our industry in Pennsylvania.

The success of the recent regional trainings is a testament to PAAMA’s role as a leader in pavement preservation and asphalt recycling. By equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools they need, PAAMA is paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient future in road management.

For more information about PAAMA and its initiatives, please visit www.paama.org