Category: Management
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Be the Problem Solver Clients Remember
As asphalt contractors we wear many hats, but the most critical one is that of a problem solver. Every day, we navigate a maze of challenges—crumbling pavement, tight schedules, or complex site conditions. Yet, the problems that matter most are those of our clients. By focusing on their needs and delivering creative, practical solutions, we…
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Labor Shortage Isn’t What You Think It Is
When I see current articles that mention the COVID-19 pandemic now, it almost seems quaint or odd. I am generally struck with a brief moment of realization that, in my head, sounds something like, “oh yeah, that was terrible, and crazy.” However, it’s still really valuable as a marker, as it represents, perhaps, the largest…
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Building More Than Roads: A New Approach to Growth in the Asphalt Industry
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In an industry known for grit, legacy, and tradition, Ali Williams brings something different to the table: perspective. As Business Development Manager for Elite Paving, she doesn’t just help grow the company’s client base — she’s helping to reshape how the asphalt industry presents itself, both to potential customers and future workers. Williams is part…
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9 Steps to Keep New Asphalt Crew Members from Quitting
Almost every pavement maintenance contractor will be adding to their employee count by hiring new workers this year. It is incredibly important that those contractors set the pace and expectations they desire for the new worker. How a new worker is assimilated into the crew, that is, made to feel like one of the crew…
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Building Trust in Asphalt: The Power of Communication and Consistency
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In an industry where communication breakdowns, vague quotes and inconsistent crews can sometimes cause a headache, Sommerset Paving Companies, LLC offers something different. The Michigan-based contractor has built its reputation on clear communication, consistent quality, and a culture that values people as much as pavement. Louise Pernicano didn’t set out to run a paving company.…
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Transform Your Asphalt Maintenance Operation With Internal Customer Service
In the asphalt maintenance and reconstruction industry, we’re laser-focused on delivering a quality product to our clients, smooth, durable pavements that stand the test of time. But here’s a question that doesn’t get asked enough: How do we treat our internal customers? It’s a concept that might sound foreign at first, especially in a trade…
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Why Cash Flow Determines Long-Term Success in Construction
In the construction industry, it’s easy to get caught up by seven-figure contracts and impressive profit margins. But while revenue and profitability are important, they can mask an underlying threat that has taken down many otherwise successful contractors: poor cash flow management. Profit Isn’t Enough: The Cash Flow Blind Spot Many business owners equate financial…
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PAVE/X Builds the Education Your Whole Crew Needs
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At PAVE/X, we talk a lot about education. But not just the kind that targets business owners or first-year laborers. What about the people in the middle? The foremen, project managers, estimators, and superintendents who are the operational backbone of any paving company. That gap is exactly what Bryce Harem, General Manager of Central Paving,…
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Addressing Head Protection and Rotational Motion in the Workplace
In today’s hazardous workplace, safety remains a top priority– especially in construction, which consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous industries. In 2023 alone, construction experienced 1,075 fatal work injuries, the highest of any private industry sector[1]. The fatal injury rate stands at nearly three times the national average, at 9.6 per 100,000 full-time…
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10 Essential Sealcoating Strategies | For Construction Pros
Sealcoating is a significant part of our industry, whether directly or indirectly. Most of us deal with it in some capacity — and for many, it’s a substantial part of their business. This prompted me to reflect on various strategies and lessons learned over the years to optimize sealcoating jobs. When considering this topic, I…