The Future is Riding on Ajax Ajax
2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 - 6 Messages from Ajax Leadership 7 Golden Gate Boulevard 8 - 9 Ajax Construction Awards 10 - 11 Project Highlights 12 - 15 Asphalt & Manufacturing 16 - 23 Safety 24 - 27 Total Process Reliability 28 - 32 18th Annual Charity Golf Tournament 33 Health Screening & Plant Tours 34 - 35 Job Fairs & Recruitment 36 - 37 Ajax Photo Contest 38 - 41 Milestones 42 - 44 Community Outreach Efforts 45 - 47 Mail Bag 47 Ajax in Action 2
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
CEO‘S MESSAGE 2019
was a year of re-investment in the Company! Your company has taken a large step forward in adding 9 new storage silos at three plants with an additional truck scale at each, new cold feed bins at Plant 2, and an array of other improvements including new load out systems at every plant. A much needed new laboratory at Plant 4 will be built this year, as well as a newly re-modeled existing building at Plant 1 to house our mix design lab has been completed. We also made an investment in a training and meeting center we call the “Ajax Barn” in the back 40 acres behind our Venice Main Office. This facility will be used for quality and safety improvement training, leadership training, entertainment and community activities, and many other company and social activities.
Our Tampa Division has their new office well underway in Temple Terrace. A beautiful building on our new property off US 301, which also has a satellite shop to do quick maintenance work orders, with additional office space for field folks and a new equipment wash system similar to the ones at Ft. Myers and Venice. Our hope is we will be moving to the new location mid-summer. The Ft. Myers office on Rickenbacker will also have a re-model this year and will commence in the near future pending permits. Additional offices and conference room are in order there as well as the addition of a truck bay on the satellite shop, again designed for quick work order completion. We have finished the new wash bay system and it is in use. As always we take pride in our equipment through all of our efforts in Total Process Reliability “TPR” and employee involvement. Comments from the public about the nice equipment we have is a testament to the involvement of our people. So congratulations and hopefully you are as proud of your Company as I am. Comments from the public about the
The Main Office in Venice is going through a re-model of the existing office as well as an addition that will add 5 new offices and a much needed additional conference room. Our staff has been very patient with the saws, hammers, and mess to do all this work while still taking care of our business. I am very proud of our team and the way they have been so cooperative and helpful in the design. When finished we will a have a better and efficient office that will be a pleasure to work in, I promise.
nice equipment we have is a testament to the involvement of our people. The Horizon looks clear and full of opportunity so let’s make the best use of it for another successful 2020.
Stay Safe out there! Keep the Faith! Mike Horan, CEO
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE A message from Vince Hafeli, President
AS
I prepared to put this message together, I thought about topics Mike has covered in the past. I struggled because over the years Mike has prepared his annual letter and covered most everything. So I decided to talk about family. What is family? We talk about Ajax and family quite a bit around this company. Merriam Webster describes family as the basic unit in a society traditionally consisting of two parents rearing their children. I would describe family as nurturing and caring for those within your circle. It requires having the tough conversations with those that are important to you and holding them accountable. It means that you look out for and take care of those that are important to you. Family is at the top of the list of priorities. Family is something that has to be worked on because it can be difficult. They say that you can choose your friends but you cannot choose your family. There is truth in that statement. I have aunts, uncles and cousins that I have not seen for years. They are family, but not necessarily friends. My personal family is tiny, yet large. The tiny family is my wife, son, daughter and an aging uncle. My father, mother and brother all passed at relatively young ages. I recently connected a few years ago with some family that I had never met. We text every other weekend and have seen each other three times over the last seven years or so. I guess that qualifies as family.
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My large family is truly at Ajax. I spend more time with folks in this company than I do with anyone other than my wife. I have a great deal of respect and admiration for most all 450+ employees. I have always committed to my “tiny” family to do anything that I can to help them. My large Ajax family should know that I also hold the same to be true here in our workplace, however that also means that at times there may be difficult conversations. By now you must be wondering who is this guy and what is all of the jibber jabber? As the new President, I feel that it is important that our employees, partners, vendors and customers understand that I hold the same values that Mike did in the twenty-eight years that he steered the Ajax ship.
My commitment is that Ajax has been and will continue to be about family. PERIOD!!
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Continuted from page 4
Remember that in my definition of family there is accountability.
• Managers hold their staff accountable. • Foreman hold their crews accountable. • Crewmembershold one another accountable. • Customers hold Ajax accountable. • Ajax holds our vendors and partners accountable.
In the end, I am accountable. So how does the future look?
We have a strong backlog for 2020. The Florida Department of Transportation continues to have a strong work program. The resurfacing program is slated to increase significantly in the upcoming FDOT fiscal years which is promising for our industry. We have a great group of managers/leaders that will be around for years to come. We are working on developing a formalized training plan to help employees improve and to help those that want to advance and develop a career path. We are scheduling classes for our leaders and managers so that they can improve their skills. We continue to grow our trucking fleet and have the best group of drivers in the industry!!! Bottom line, we are investing in our people because they are truly our number one asset.
So what are my long range goals? Build upon the Ajax culture that I inherited and make it even better - safety, employee retention, quality and reputation. Continue to concentrate on being the low cost producer so that we can prosper in tough economic times and soar when times are prosperous. Look for ways to expand the company so that there is room for upward growth within the organization. My vision is to be known as the guy that left behind a highly motivated group of laborers/ technicians, equipment operators, foreman, secretaries and managers that will propel the company forward.
Be safe out there and continue to make the family proud!
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
Vince Hafeli, President
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ESTIMATING & SALES A message from Andy DeCraene
CHANGING BUT UNCHANGED
L
ast year Mike Horan wrote, “Change is in the air”. This statement couldn’t be more truthful for the past, present, and future. The world is constantly evolving and perpetually changing. We must stay ahead and embrace our new normal as it approaches. Our estimating staff is seasoned with many years of experience and continually advancing in technology. We understand the need for change and will continuously work hard to advance.
We also understand somethings never change or are better left unchanged. “Nothing happen until someone sells something.” Made famous by Henry Ford and used by our founder Herb Jacob, this simple fact will not be changed by technology or advancements. This quote, “Nothing happens until someone sells something”, hung on the wall in Mark Minich’s office and has been the motto of the estimating department for years. It now hangs on my wall and I couldn’t be more proud. We should be proud to follow in the footsteps of the ones before us. We stand on their shoulders now, elevated by their sacrifices and hard work. They’ve built our foundation that will be left unchanged. Now it’s our turn build upon it. Let’s make it happen!
“Nothing happens until someone sells something.”
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Be confident in this team to take us to the next level. The Estimating and Sales staff is highly motivated and geared up for success. Our secret sauce has always been our culture and we have a great one. Moving forward this will stay unchanged and strengthen.
Our essentials are simple. Believe in Yourself and Ajax. To be highly sucessful you must be a believer. Be Customer Focused. The customer is always right. Drop the ego and be humble. Like People. People skills are important. Be genuine and respectful. Take Ownership. Offer solutions and not excuses. No blame game. Have a One Team Approach. Be quick to give credit to someone else, share the lead, and help everyone succeed The lone wolf may have great killer instincts and can be successful but team work and good relationships will make way to our future growth and repeat business. Keep up the good work!!
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
Andy DeCraene, Vice President
PROJECT HIGHLIGHT GOLDEN GATE BOULEVARD
The project is located in the Golden Gate Estates region of eastern Collier County, Florida. The Golden Gate Boulevard corridor serves as a major arterial to serve eastwest traffic movements from residential owners to urban centers to the west. The project consists of approximately 2.1 miles of 4-lane reconstruction of Golden Gate Boulevard (GGB) from the beginning of the existing four-lane to 2-lane transition east of Wilson Boulevard to 16th Street NE with an end limit of 18th Street NE plus transition tapers to existing roadway. The project also includes widening the existing Golden Gate Main Canal Bridge from two to four lanes, a boat ramp with parking and turnaround area, and reconstructing eight intersections along the project
length. Improvements to the corridor have been identified in the 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan with traffic projections of over 29,000 vehicles per day. Not only will the project serve to alleviate traffic congestion, it addressed additional needs of the local community and needed safety improvements. The local land use is primarily residential and the roadways are in need of multimodal features. This project incorporated bicycle lanes in both directions, 6-foot sidewalks on both sides of the road, and bus stop features (including shelters and bike racks) for school children at intersections along the route. All intersections provide exclusive right and left auxiliary lanes along with bulb-outs to allow safe U-turn movements.
$19,400,000 Dollar Contract 45,000 Tons Hot Mix Asphalt Golden Gate Blvd Bridge Widening Stormwater Ponds and Drainage 2017 DBIA Transportation Merit Award Winner Written by, Felipe Jaramillo Alternative Contracting Project Manager
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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2019 AJAX CONSTRUCTION
AWARDS
FTBA AWARDS 2019 FTBA BEST IN CONSTRUCTION AWARD
FTBA SAFETY AWARD
INTERSTATE I-75 EXPANSION PROJECT 413042-4-62-01 CHARLOTTE
NAPA AWARDS QUALITY IN CONSTRUCTION AWARD WINNERS Quality in Construction – Airports • Rehabilitation of Public Use Aircraft Parking Aprons - Venice Airport • Rehabilitation of Runway 5-23 & Associated Taxiways of Page Field Airport • Rehabilitation of Runway 13-31 & Associated Taxiways of Page Field Airport Quality in Construction - Under 50,000 Tons • Bee Ridge Road from Siesta Dr. to Siesta Place and from State Road 45 (US 41) to Dunn Drive • State Road 93 (I-75) From South of Mocccasin Wallow Road to the Hillsborough County Line • SR-31 Lee County Improvements
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Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
ACAF AWARDS 2019 SPECIAL PROJECTS AWARD
2019 ROADS AND STREETS – FDOT CATEGORY
SR 758 FROM BOND PLACE TO CATTLEMAN ROAD IN SARASOTA COUNTY (HONORABLE MENTION)
VENICE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT IN SARASOTA COUNTY
RESURFACING – RURAL CATEGORY STATEWIDE WINNER
SR 29 FROM 0.115 MILES SOUTH OF CR 832 TO SAM’S LANE IN HENDRY COUNTY
A.P. BOLTON CATEGORY STATEWIDE WINNER
SR 93 (I 75) FROM S OF MOCCASIN WALLOW ROAD TO THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY LINE IN MANATEE COUNTY
DESIGN BUILD AWARDS Roads & Bridge Top 10 Transportations Project Nationwide: #9 SR 82 Continuous Flow Intersection Roads & Bridge Top 10 2019: #6 I-75 Jones Loop DBIA FL 2019 Transportation Project of the Year- E1O39 FDOT District 1 Design Build Pushbutton
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS RUNWAY 4-22 PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PETER O KNIGHT AIRPORT
This project consisted of the in-place reconstruction of Runway and 4-22 and parallel Taxiway A at Peter O Knight Airport on Davis Island in Tampa. Other work consisted of the placement of airfield drainage and the reconstruction of multiple small taxiways and hangar areas. Approximately 90,000 SY of fulldepth reclamation were constructed with 15,000 tons of P-401 asphalt. The project was phased
to minimize impacts to the Airfield. Airfield electrical signage and airfield markings we also key elements of the Project. PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS: • $4.6 mil. project for Hillsborough County Aviation Authority • 90,000 SY of Full Depth Reclamation • 15,000 tons of asphalt
SR 699 GULF BOULEVARD
Traffic control was a major element of the SR 699 project on Treasure Island, a popular student winter vacation destination. Ajax Paving successfully managed the heavy traffic as it milled and resurfaced, with slope corrections, Gulf Boulevard from 105th to 125th Avenue. Requirements also included new curbs, sidewalks, and signals.
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PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS • 3,800 tons Structural SP • 2,500 tons Surface FC • 25 percent reclaimed asphalt pavement • Quality in Construction Award, National Asphalt Pavement Association Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS SR 82 CONTINUOUS FLOW INTERSECTION $55 Million Dollar FDOT Contract Reconstruct 5 Miles of one of the most dangerous roads in FL Transform a 2 lane highway into 6 lanes Create the first ever Continuous Flow Intersection (CFI) in the state. Utilized Full GPS for the roadway construction, including subgrade, base, asphalt, and over 100,000 LF of curb and gutter placed without stakes. 80,000 Tons of asphalt
ROUTE 64 The SR 64 Project had three sections calling for total reconstruction of the travel lanes totaling 12000’ lf x 24’. Plans called to mill off existing asphalt and base. Re-stabilize 12” add base group 12. Then pave 1.5 of SP 12.5 and FC 12.5 PG 76-22. Ajax did a VECP to reconstruct the 12000’ area with 4” of 19 mm asphalt 1.5” 12.5 and 1.5” of FC 12.5 asphalt. After presenting it to the VECP to the FDOT they were in agreement to move forward. That was the unique part of the project. We eliminated all the barrier wall temp striping and temporary signalization to perform the reconstruction and saved the state roughly $ 300,000.00. The overall work performed is deserving of a Quality in Construction Award. This project produced a smooth, quality asphalt pavement that benefited state taxpayers and served area motorists well. Due to the high quality work of the Contractor, it produced a 1.01 Composite Pay Factor. Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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ASPHALT &
MANUFACTURING A message from Mickey Cox, General Manager of Asphalt Plants ver this past year, there have been changes at O the manufacturing facilities to facilitate continued
PROMOTIONS:
improvement and lead Ajax into the future.
• Shane Williamson was promoted to the Northern
IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDE: • All plant load out systems were upgraded
to the Apex System allowing us to remain competitive and add new technologies such as E-ticketing as well as other technologies as they become available. • Plant 1, North Venice - three new silos were added, along with an AC tank and one of the virgin cold feed bins being replaced. • Plant 2, Punta Gorda – the existing 7 cold feed bin system was replaced in its entirety along with a new hot oil heater. • Plant 3, Palmetto - the Palmetto shop was remodled and converted into an inventory control room to store parts for all manufacturing facilities, a new lime silo was erected, the lab trailer was remodeled, and we will be installing a replacement hot oil heater in 2020. • Plant 4, Fort Myers - three additional silos will be erected and a new lab/storage building constructed in 2020. • Plant 6, Tampa three new storage silos were erected.
Regional Plant Manager in July of 2019. Shane was previously a lab technician at our Fort Myers facility. Shane is doing a great job meeting the needs and expectations of the position. • Cody McEwen has stepped into the role of plant foreman at the North Venice facility. • Tampa plant foreman Greg Hogue transferred to the Odessa facility to replace Rickey Stevens that retired in December of 2019. • Arnold Salinas was promoted from plant operator to plant foreman at the Tampa facility.
Congratulations A-Team! I would personally like to thank all plant employees that work hard every day and step up when needed so that we can continually meet our customers’ needs and expectations. I would also like to acknowledge our asphalt facility mechanics and electricians that work, night and day, and are critical in keeping our plants running. Each plant employee performs a vital role in the success of the plants and in turn Ajax Paving.
The above changes have allowed the plants to be more flexible, increase production and better meet customer’s expectations. Along with equipment upgrades and improvements, there have been some personnel changes.
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Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
AJAX PARTICIPATION IN FLORIDA CRACKING TEST TASK GROUP
T
he adoption of a cracking test for approval of asphalt mixes in the state of Florida seems to be getting closer each day. With this prospect in mind, a task group was formed by Association of Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida (ACAF) in late 2019 to analyze the implementation of one of the newer cracking tests, the IDEAL-CT.
The IDEAL-CT is a cracking test that has shown great potential to predict cracking resistance. It was developed by Fujie Zhou at the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. The IDEAL-CT test is currently being supported by large sectors of the asphalt research community. Its main advantages are that sample preparation is simple, it is highly repeatable, and it has a reduced testing time.
Having one of only three labs in the state with this testing capability, Ajax was one of the main participants of the Task Group. The other two labs that perform IDEAL-CT tests in Florida are Asphalt Testing Solutions, and the FDOT State Materials Office. All three labs have done IDEAL-CT tests on mix samples provided by contractors from all over the state. The main focus of this project is to determine lab variabilities, analyze how current DOT mixes perform on this test, and finally make a recommendation on testing requirements if this test is ultimately adopted by FDOT.
Written by Alfredo Castro QC Engineer
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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UPDATES TO FAA SPECS FOR ASPHALT MIXES Articles on pages 14-15 Written by Alfredo Castro, QC Engineer
In
2019, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) incorporated an important new testing requirement for all of their P-401 asphalt mixes. Asphalt mixes used in FAA runways should now be tested on an Asphalt Pavement Analyzer (APA). This test determines the resistance to rutting of an asphalt mix. This new requirement was implemented to identify mixes that will have a good rutting performance under the severe loading conditions imposed by heavy aircrafts. As one of only few contractors in the state with APA testing capabilities, Ajax has conducted APA testing for all of their P-401 designs in-house.
The APA is a wheel tracking test that consists of applying wheel loads on a set of asphalt samples compacted to 7% air voids. The load is applied by metal concave wheels sitting on a pressurized rubber hose that are inflated to a specified air pressure. The test is also run in a closed chamber that is kept to a constant temperature, usually 64 °C. This is meant to simulate the loads made by wheels of a truck or a heavy vehicle on a pavement under the most severe circumstances. A maximum allowable rutting for the testing samples is specified at 4,000 or 8,000 cycles of loading. Overall testing time is usually 7.5 to 8.5 hours.
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Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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NCAT ROUND ROBIN TESTING The National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) is the premiere institution in asphalt research. They are one of the main driving forces in the development and implementation of new technologies in the asphalt industry. Their research facilities include their Test Track, which is a 1.7 mile high-speed, full-scale accelerated pavement testing facility.
In 2018, NCAT initiated a Round-Robin study for asphalt performance tests used in balanced mix design. Ajax was one of the over 40 labs in the country that signed up for the different tests, which included Asphalt Pavement Analyzer (APA), Hamburg, IFIT, and IDEAL-CT tests. In 2019, the first phase of the study consisted of shipping
asphalt mix from the latest Test Track research cycle to the different participants to test using the different procedures. The second phase, which is currently on its final stages, consisted of sending compacted samples ready for testing. The study has two main objectives. The first objective is to give labs a chance to compare their results to those of other labs and if necessary, make the adequate corrections to their procedures. The second objective was to generate information and data on within-lab and between-lab variability of the different tests. Results of the first phase have been received. They showed that Ajax had great comparisson to the other labs, with a very low deviation and variability. These results from an NCAT study serve as an assurance that when Ajax conducts any in-house performance test, the results obtained should be extremely reliable.
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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SAFETY SAFETY FIRST. SAFETY ALWAYS. A Message from Ajax’s Safety Director, Mandy Kustra
We
have all heard about the four legged stool at Ajax. The four legs are Safety, TPR, Production and Quality. Each element feeds the others, and too much stress on any one part can cause the entire stool to tip over. Safety, TPR, Productivity, and Quality are equally important—they all keep the stool upright. This message on the importance of balance should be continually communicated throughout our organization. You should also hear the same message from our employees. Their words and actions will demonstrate, “We’re here to work. We can get things done. We’ll help you succeed, but not at the expense of safety.” When your employees are focused on all four objectives, then you have an engaged workforce that knows what’s important. Once all aspects of the stool are balanced, everyone benefits from a healthy, dynamic work environment. Remember we are all family here at Ajax and we need to look out for each other. All employees have a voice, so if you see something, say something. Please feel free to contact your safety department with any questions.
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Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
hether you work in an office or on nation’s roadways, everyone deserves to get home safely. This year’s NWZAW is April 8-12, 2019, and this year’s theme is “Drive Like You Work Here”.
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), in 2017 there were 710 work zone fatal crashes and 799 fatalities, the majority of which were motorists, with 132 deaths accounting for roadway worker fatalities.
ON AVERAGE:
RESULTED IN AT LEAST ONE INJURY.
⚠ EVERY WEEK, 12 WORK ZONE CRASHES OCCURRED THAT RESULTED IN AT LEAST ONE FATALITY.
2 0 1 9
⚠ A WORK ZONE CRASH OCCURRED ONCE EVERY 5.4 MINUTES. ⚠ EVERY DAY, 70 WORK ZONE CRASHES OCCURRED THAT
These startling statistics further demonstrate the importance of spreading awareness of work zone safety. At Ajax we are spreading awareness by the following:
🚧
USING THE HIRE BACK PROGRAM FROM FDOT, TO TICKET SPEEDERS IN THE WORK ZONE.
🚧
LOBBYING TO HAVE THE WORK ZONE SPEED LIMIT LOWERED IN FLORIDA
🚧
PARTICIPATING IN COMMITTEES THAT HAVE THE IMAGE BELOW ON 10 BILLBOARDS IN FLORIDA FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL AND MAY. We would like to thank those employees who are also involved in work zone safety by making suggestions and looking out for their fellow workers. Keep up the great team work and continue to promote safety at Ajax.
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
NATIONAL WORK ZONE AWARENESS WEEK
“DRIVE LIKE YOU WORK HERE.” W
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2019
AJAX PAVING’S ANNUAL SAFETY DAY Written by Safety Manager, Eric Green
O
ur annual Safety Day started off at 7am with registration and a great breakfast for everyone. Each Employee received some TPR Swag and a Water Bottle to go along with our Ajax Safety Day theme. Scott Pittman kicked off Safety Day in Tampa with opening remarks at 8 am reviewing the number of injuries and accidents last year. Scott introduced our management team and the recent promotions that had taken place over the past year. He further addressed our back log for the upcoming year and how busy the crews were going to be. That definitely put some smiles on several of our employees faces as they loved to hear how great of a backlog we had. Scott wrapped up his opening comments with some positive feedback on how the OSHA recordables (per MH ) is the best it’s ever been at Ajax. Sandy Phillips and Beth Hendricks from Kapnick Insurance introduced our new EEO officer Linda Baily. They also went over some benefits of our health insurance as well as covering our Telemedicine program.
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Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
Our next topic on distracted driving and was presented by Eric Green. Eric went over several of our Safety policies including one of our most important policies, cell phone use. Next, the ITCP (Internal Traffic Control Plan) was covered which included the daily huddle program that covers safety and production. Eric’s presentation covered several topics including our Smith System Driving class training. Our next speaker was Susie Ferguson and she grabbed everyone’s attention with her presentation. She spoke about a recent tragedy that that occurred in 2018 in our Michigan area. Throughout her entire presentation you could see she had captured everyone’s full attention. After such an intense presentation, everyone was ready for a well-deserved break.
AJAX PAVING’S ANNUAL SAFETY DAY Continuted from Page 18
Following break we had a guest speaker from one of our subcontractors, Dave Ando from Turtle Milling. Dave spoke to everyone regarding their most recent injury which resulted in a leg amputation. He did a great job delivering his message to our employees as most of them know Dave very well. It just wouldn’t be Safety Day without a great video from our Safety committee members. Mandy introduced all the members prior to showing the video. The video was on heat related illnesses, hence the water bottles. Great work by all committee members for an outstanding video. The TPR update was handled by Dan Maitland for Tampa and Mike Woody for Venice and Ft. Myers. They both covered where we are currently and the direction we want to head into in 2019.
The morning session was wrapped up with closing remarks from Mike Horan expressing how important Safety is to all of us. Mike then ended with years of service awards. Lunch was provided for management as well as all of our CDL drivers as we had an afternoon breakout session. Management covered everything from timesheets to work orders to general issues they were having in the field. The CDL Driver session came next and management went over driving hours and daily truck inspections and log books. Safety Day 2019 would not have been successful without the great coordinating and planning from Mandy and her Safety Department! Ajax truly leads the industry in showing how important Safety to everyone.
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
“AJAX TRULY LEADS THE INDUSTRY IN SHOWING HOW IMPORTANT SAFETY IS TO EVERYONE.” 19
TAMPA SAFETY COMMITTEE A Message from Safety Manager, Eric Green
In
2019 we decided to change the way we assembled our Safety Committee. We started off the year offering applications at Safety Day for anyone who would be interested in being part of an areas specific Safety Committee. I had over 15 applications turned in from employees who wanted to take part in making the environment at Ajax safer. It was not easy to narrow it down as we had several enthusiastic and qualified employees who wanted to be part of the team. Ultimately, I chose Michael Hinestroza from our under ground and utility crew, Stefan Maldonado from our grading crew and Dorrell Dobson from our concrete division. Each of these employees was an asset to the committee. They were all eager to participate and make a contribution through their thoughts and ideas toward improving our safety culture. For each meeting I would pick a different location and it included a nice lunch and good atmosphere. Not only was the team grateful to get a reprieve from the summer weather, but they were enthusiastic to talk about safety. There was usually always a nice surprise I would have for them at each meeting. Anything from a gift card to some nice Ajax Swag. What a great team it turned out to be. All three of the team members represent the Ajax culture in a positive way.
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The Safety Committee will be a one year term and I look forward to many more qualified applicants for the 2020 term. Each member will receive a nice token of appreciation as well as a certificate of appreciation.
Tampa Safety Committee having some dessert celebrating a successful meeting. The dessert followed a great lunch. The committee was happy to escape the hot humid day to discuss safety. Pictured is Darrell Robinson, Lee Bean and Michael Hinestroza. The commitee meets around every 6 weeks to discuss Safety and Safety tactics! If you are interested in joining the Tampa Safety Committee please contact Eric Green.
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
VENICE & FT. MYERS SAFETY COMMITTEE A Message from Safety Manager, Bob Kern
O
ur Safety Committee this year was a great success. We met regularly, discussed and reviewed safety policies and visited job sites and plants. In 2019, we separated from area 3 in an effort to make it easier to meet geographically and to concentrate our safety efforts in the areas we normally work. Mandy, Eric and I agreed that the two committees would stay in close communication and take advantage of all the great ideas and best practices that develop in each other’s meetings. Like Tampa, we had many people apply for membership. It was not easy to narrow the field and chose the cream of the crop...But we did, and the members selected did a great job promoting communication, education and information throughout the company. The people I finally chose were, Keith Atwater, roller operator from Albert Dowling’s crew. Danielle Bentivegna, Project coordinator Area 2. Eric McDonald, Area 1 Paving on Robbie Popielarz crew. Alex Rodriguez, MOT Foreman. Nate West, Area 2 Paving with Chris Ance and Kyle Watkins, Plant 2 operator with Ed Batha and Austin Bastinelli. Our meetings were held in a local restaurant over lunch. The business we conducted followed an agenda that kept track of our past communications and assigned new action items for discussion. We invited guest speakers like Lee Strauss to talk about Quality Control and Estimating, Josh Campbell to talk about trucking and Erica Washington who answered questions about her office and field experience.
We traveled to job sites to experience the risks and safety culture inherent to different areas. Charlie McCleaf and Jason Prokopetz showed us around their U.S. 41 project in Fort Meyers. They took us out into the field to see the work being done and talk safety with their subcontractors. We also journeyed to Plant 2, where Austin Bastinelli spent about an hour educating us about plant operations. These outings allowed us to evaluate P.P.E., hazardous conditions and recognize safe behavior. I want to thank the team for all their effort, positive energy and safety promotion this year. I am looking for another great group to represent safety in 2020 and look forward to all the success that I know we will find.
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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WHATS WITH THE GREEN HARD HATS? S
afety is always the number one priority at Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC. Ajax’s
Safety Managers work hard to come up with new programs and fresh ideas to improve our safety efforts. Ajax’s Green Hard Hat Mentor program is one example of our Safety leaders thinking outside of the box. Safety Manager Bob Kern describes Ajax’s new safety initiative, ‘‘Our new employees wear green hard hats to help us identify them, and offer help and advice. We have all been “new” at one time or another and know how great it feels to receive guidance and encouragement.’’
Pictured: MOT Foreman Chris Cook, with two new employees, Rico Vega and Sam Foster, they took a break from pressure washing driveways and gutters in Harbor Cove to show off their green hard hats.
The green hard hats also allow other Ajax employees to see who is new and offer a lending hand if needed. We all have to have each other’s backs and safety in mind while working together. The green hard hats are another way we can ensure we are looking our for one another! For more information or the opportunity to be a mentor reach please out to your safety department.
“Our new employees wear green hard hats to help us identify them, and offer help and advice.”
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Pictured here is Javier Castaldo and Mike Morgan. Javier sucessfully passed his Broom Tractor Audit. Shout out to Tyler Taylor and his crew for mentoring Javier and other new Ajax mentors!
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
SMITH SYSTEM Written by Bob Kern, Safety Manager
S
mith System is the trusted global leader in crash avoidance driver training since 1952. We began teaching our employees this system in May 2018 and have already certified over 175 people. It is hard to measure all the savings the Smith System has brought to Ajax Paving or to its people in their personal lives, because we do not measure the accident loss that has been prevented. Nevertheless, we know the information taught in a Smith System class is the industry standard for defense of a company. It is worthwhile and it is taught to over half the fortune five hundred companies in the world.
‘‘OUR GOAL AT AJAX IS TO PREVENT CRASHES, REDUCE FUEL AND MAINTENANCE COSTS—AND MOST IMPORTANTLY—SAVE
LIVES.’’
Our goal at Ajax is to prevent crashes, reduce fuel and maintenance costs—and most importantly— save lives. The class is completed in one day; it is comprised of about 3 hours in the classroom followed by a rigorous afternoon drive, full of evaluation, safety and collision avoidance. The feedback I have gotten so far from our employees tells me this training is valuable, effective and has good usability.
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TOTAL PROCESS RELIABILITY 2019 - A YEAR IN REVIEW
Written by, TPR Coordinator, Mike Woody
IN
November 2019, we passed the two-year mark on our TPR journey at Ajax Paving. We have come a long way in 2019 identifying and taking action on areas needing improvement. We have been successful in our TPR endeavors because of you - the members of the Ajax Team and the TPR Focus Teams. Below is a summary of what each team accomplished and where we plan on going in 2020 with each team.
OPERATOR CARE Chad Schmidtke led the operator care team with team members Tommy Kidd, Dale Purcell, Lee Strauss, Andrew Cary, and Dejan Vujaklija. The team developed operator care standards for skid steers, asphalt rollers, live-bottom “flowboy” tractors/ trailers, and our triaxle dump trucks. The team also developed quarterly operator care training and facilitated those training events at the area shops throughout the year. The events trained operators and supervisors in the proper care of equipment. One of the final achievements of the team was to stock file boxes with operator care standards at each area crew supply room, enabling foremen and operators to have access to new standards when the existing ones are damaged or missing. In 2020, the operator care team will begin developing operator care standards for all of our grade crew equipment and facilitate quarterly operator care training events for those equipment operators and foremen.
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AUDIT TEAM Mike Morgan and Jayson Brown led the Audit Team with team members Ginger Johnson, Sam Loumani, Jared Hardy, Matt Horan, Jason Prokopetz, and Steve Ayers. The purpose of the audit team is to ensure that operators and crewmembers are performing operator care by scheduling supervisors in each area to conduct an audit of equipment every 6 months. The team this year developed a method to schedule, record, and track equipment and shop audits. The team also coordinated training auditors and creating audit forms for the equipment with completed operator care standards. In 2020, the team will expand the audit program to include grade crew equipment, flowboy tractors/trailers, and other class B equipment.
WE HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN OUR TPR ENDEAVORS BECAUSE OF YOU.THE MEMBERS OF THE AJAX TEAM AND THE TPR FOCUS TEAMS.
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE Alex Claessens led the Preventative Maintenance (PM) Team with team members Clay Collins, Tim Smith, Wilmer Moldanado, Chip Gaines, and Dennis Wilson. The PM Team utilized manufacturer service manuals along with team member experience to create detailed preventative maintenance manuals (checklists) for our mechanics to use during services. The team created PM manuals for asphalt pavers, asphalt transfer machines, tack trucks, broom tractors, and a select few asphalt rollers and dozers. The team also analyzed the current rate of PM services conducted by the equipment division and tracked compliance of our scheduled services. The efforts of the team, in coordination with the equipment division, led to an increase in scheduled service compliance and an overall increase in PM services of our equipment fleet. In 2020, the team plans to create additional PM Service manuals for the remainder of our paving train equipment and grade crew equipment. In 2020, the team will also incorporate conditional inspections of our fleet equipment into the PM program to help early identification of potential machine failures and repairs.
CLAIRE/EIT TEAM Clay Cross and Sonny Webb led the CLAIRE/EIT Team with team members Erica Washington, Garrett Fons, Justin Scharping, David Kidd, Henry Suggs, and Roger Owens. The team planned 5 successful events, listed below. The intent of the events is to improve the state of the equipment, provide a team building opportunity, and train crewmembers in TPR. In 2020, in coordination with Construction Managers, the team will continue to plan CLAIRE equipment improvement teams and events.
COMMUNICATIONS TEAM Elliott Kresse led the Communications Team with team members Kara Coggins, Cassie Rubio, Sam Loumani, Danielle Bentivegna, and Trish Moore. The team developed an awards program for TPR that includes a $50 reward for operators passing their first audit and a quarterly audit award winner. As always, the team kept us abreast of current TPR happenings with newsletter, emails, event video, and most recently, video messaging. A staple of the communications team is posting via our social media platforms. The team also coordinated the installation of televisions at each shop and area office that will be used to display company and TPR information for visitors and employees alike. In 2020, the communications teams will continue to keep employees informed of TPR news and explore new methods of communicating our successes.
2019 TPR TEAMS
Roadtec Paver – “A-Team” – Bob Popielarz,
Broderick Belvin, Desmin Belvin, Ernest Williams, Fenel Meade, John Chaney, Keith Atwater, Pete Walker, Bob Rondeau, Aaron Chaffin, David Kidd
John Deere 310 Combo – “Team Demolition” –
Fredy Garay, Richard Gifford, Richard Garay-Colon, Michael Peery, Darren LaBolt, Michael Green, Dennis Wilson Service Truck – “Dream Team” – Tony Tovar, Jordan Brown, Dominique Figueroa, Skylair Mrazik, Todd Reynolds, David Kidd Terex Mixer – “Team Gear Heads” – Tim Smith, Matt Bell, Cody Dahlberg, Ed Bittner, Tyler Bowser 3x5 Roller – “Team Misfits” – Harry Hoxsie, Sam Manahov, Bobby Wolfe, Austin Whitehead
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2019 - A YEAR IN REVIEW Continued from pages 24/25
5-S TEAM
Tim Gearheart led the 5S Team with team members Sam Loumani, Andrew Kirkpatrick, Mike Eaton, and Eric Delaney. The team had three main tasks this year, all of which revolved around asphalt plant operations/maintenance. The first was to build a plant maintenance trailer (PMT) at Palmetto Plant 3. The team built the PMT to be a self-sufficient, total maintenance trailer for plants, complete with generator, lighting, tools, welder, air compressor, and other small items needed to repair asphalt plants. The second task was to clean up and repair the old shops at plant 3 and plant 7. The last task was to convert the old plant 3 shop to an asphalt plant parts warehouse and catalog parts into a database for use by asphalt plants 3, 5, 6, and 7. In 2020, the 5S team will be on standby and utilized as a special event crew when a facility or area is determined to need a 5S event.
Service Truck – “Dream Team” – Tony Tovar, Jordan Brown, Dominique Figueroa, Skylair Mrazik, Todd Reynolds, David Kidd
ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS This year we established a new team for Root Cause Analysis (RCA) consisting of Clay Cross, Nate Hassler, and Jim Price. The intent of this new team is to provide dedicated investigative work into issues that Ajax deems impactful to the entire company or, in the case of equipment, that may surpass a certain repair cost. In lieu of an initial “mission” to set this team on, Ajax decided to utilize the team to create crew supply stock rooms. The team established the overall plan and employed John Eagens to carry out the plan and streamline it. With a big effort from John Eagens, Ajax currently has and maintains a crew supply stock room at the Fort Myers yard, Palmetto Plant 3, Tampa 301 shop, and the Venice Plant 1 yard. John also spearheaded the renovation of the main shop equipment wash bay and coordinated the final stages of completion for the Fort Myers equipment wash bay.
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Roadtec Paver – “A-Team” – Bob Popielarz, Broderick Belvin, Desmin Belvin, Ernest Williams, Fenel Meade, John Chaney, Keith Atwater, Pete Walker, Bob Rondeau, Aaron Chaffin, David Kidd
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
Terex Mixer – “Team Gear Heads” – Tim Smith, Matt Bell, Cody Dahlberg, Ed Bittner, Tyler Bowser
John Deere 310 Combo – “Team Demolition” – Fredy Garay, Richard Gifford, Richard Garay-Colon, Michael Peery, Darren LaBolt, Michael Green, Dennis Wilson
WHAT’S TO COME?
3x5 Roller – “Team Misfits” – Harry Hoxsie, Sam Manahov, Bobby Wolfe, Austin Whitehead
In the last few months of 2019, Ajax decided to restart the CAM Tech team, Inventory Control Team, and the Planning/ Scheduling Team. Updates for these teams will be coming in the next few months as these teams formally establish their missions and processes. This year we have come a long way with TPR, and we plan to continue our improvement into 2020.
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18TH ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
A
jax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC’s 18th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at Sarasota National Golf Club was a success thanks to the tremendous support from our sponsors. Ajax was able to donate $37,500 to various charities and organizations. We would also like to thank all of our golfers and volunteers. This tournament would not be possible without your participation.
We look forward to seeing you next year!
CONGR AT UL AT ION S TO T HE W INNE R S !
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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR S! Thank you for your tremendous support. Ajax would like to acknowledge the organizations and individuals who significantly made an impact on the success of this year’s golf tournament. Please support the businesses that sponsored this fun and exciting event!
PL AT INUM S P ON S OR S Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC Bennett, Jacobs & Adams, PA Bermont Excavating LLC BW Paving of SW FL, Inc. Curb Systems of SW FL & Sarasota Davis Industrial Dobbs Equipment EHC, Inc Farr Law Firm Flagler Construction Equipment Gardner Asphalt Supply Gator Grading & Paving, LLC Gator Water Analysis & Treatment, Inc. Hyatt House Universal
Ingevity Kelly Tractor Kemmco Sales, Inc. Key Bank National Association Martin Marietta McShea Contracting, LLC Mike & Carol Horan MSB Services, LLC NexTran Truck Centers Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer Rapid Trucking, LLC RoadTec, Inc. Safety Products, Inc. Shell Fleet Navigator Shendell & Pollock
Suncoast Paving, Inc. Sunland Paving Co Tincher Concrete Travelers Turtle SE, LLC Walters, Levine, Lozano, DeGrave Wendy & John Savage Winzer
GOLD S P ON S OR S
Hazeltine Nurseries, Inc. Linder Industrial Machinery Co. Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart Ring Power Corporation
TOUR N A ME N T S P ON S OR S
HOLE & DOOR PR I Z E S P ON S OR S
Coastal Precast of FL, Inc. David, Heather, Noah & Nathan Reid GBM Sand & Gravel Marathon Petroleum Company Scott Linder Sales Trillium Drivers
Advanced Asphalt of SW, FL Apex Office Products Asphalt Contractors Association of Florida (ACAF) B2W Software, Inc. Babe’s Hardware of Venice Bob’s Barricades Dobbs Equipment Flagler Construction Equipment, LLC Folk Asphalt HighSpans Engineering Kolor Trax Unlimited National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) Peterbilt Professional Concrete, Inc. Roadtec, Inc. Safety Products, Inc. Stantec Consulting Services, Inc.
S ILE N T AUC T ION S P ON S OR S Charlotte Harbor National Golf Club Lakewood National Golf Club Legacy Golf Club Mission Valley Golf & Country Club Sarasota National Golf Club Venetian Golf & River Club Waterlefe Golf & River Club
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
Sweep It, LLC The Dave Fons Memorial Fund Trail King Industries, Inc.
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GOLF PHOTO GALLERY
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HEALTHY STARTS HERE! Healthier, happier, more informed employees begin with our annual health screenings. The screenings were held in North Venice, Fort Myers and Tampa areas beginning in January and February 2020. Ajax provided an onsite workplace mobile clinic from National Diagnostic Services to conduct these health screenings and improve our employees’ experience. Employees were able to call or go on-line to set up appointments prior to arrival of the “Heart Mobile”. The friendly, courteous health staff assisted patients with scheduling, sending reminders, and streamlining the process. Best of all, employees were able to get their results same day and receive a consultation with a Medical Doctor (MD) to discuss their individual health concerns in a confidential manner. We encourage our employees to take advantage of the wellness screenings provided as part of Ajax’ insurance benefit package. Prevention is the key to our own personal wellness journey. Our goal for 2019 is to continue to enhance the wellness of our employees.
FGCU PLANT TOURS On September 23, 2019 and February 13, 2020, Ajax Paving hosted tours at Ajax’s Fort Myers Plant 4. The tour was for Florida Gulf Coast University students enrolled in FGCU’s Bachelor of Science Construction Management program. Ajax’s Plant Manager, Mickey Cox, led the group on this informative tour. During the tour, FGCU Students were able to become familiar with the process of creating asphalt mixes. Students learned the different geographic locations Ajax’s aggregates and materials come from and the role different aggregates have in producing different mixes. Students then made their way over to Ajax’s Quality Control Lab and learned about processes for testing, quality control and various specifications of mixes dependent on type of job. The tour ended with an overview of the delivery process to jobsites, as well as a Q & A lead by Ajax’s Vice President of Estimating, Andy Decraene. Big shout-out to all of the Ajax employees who made these tours possible, Ajax looks forward to hosting more in the future! Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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RECRUITMENT JOB & CAREER FAIRS
2019
was a busy year for recruitment.
Ajax attended over 10 job and career fairs in 2019. These job and career fairs spanned from various demographics and areas throughout Tampa, Venice, Fort Myers and Port Charlotte. Ajax attended career fairs geared to veterans at multiple Recruit Military job fairs, as well as attended a career fair for sixth, seventh and eighth graders at Venice Middle School. Special thanks to the employees who volunteered their time to help assist with Ajax’s recruiting efforts!
Bob Kern talking with students at the Venice Middle School Career Day. Ajax brought asphalt cores and the students were interested in learning more!
Kara Coggins and Linda Bailey attended Construction Career Days in Tampa and spoke with students about a career in the construction industry. Special thanks to the Safety Department for donating different giveaway items to be used at each job fair!
Dee Rodriguez assisted with a Veterans Job Fair at Amalie Arena in Downtown Tampa.
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Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
Ajax Paving the Way for the Future,
TAMPA BAY CONSTRUCTION CAREER DAYS 2019
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC attended the Fourth Annual Tampa Bay Construction Career Days at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. In attendance, there were around 800 students from high schools, technical schools, and colleges. The day was filled with informative learning labs as well as hands-on opportunities for students to operate machinery and equipment. Special thanks to all the Ajax employees who volunteered!
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AJAX PHOTO CONTEST 2019 - WINNERS
A
jax Paving had a company-wide photo contest from June 2019 and all submissions were due by September 13, 2019. The six winning photos will be included in the 2020 Ajax Calendar as well as used on social media and other marketing pieces. We received over 40 great submissions, which made judging tough! It was a team effort in order to narrow down the winners. The TPR Communications Team completed the first round of judging. A group of Area 1 judges as well as Ajax’s Safety Department assisted in the second round of judging. A group of Area 3 employees chose the final Winner! Best Overall Photo - Steve Palenieck winners. Along with the six winning photos, we also have six honorable mention winners who will receive a $25 gift card. Congratulations to Matt Ohley, Dragan Savic, Paul Jaramillo, Thomas Pegg, Dayna Coney, and Spencer Wadsworth. A big thank you to all the participants as well as judges!
Categories Best Overall Photo Best Crew Photo Best Plant Photo Best Safety Photo Best Equipment Photo Best Job Photo
$500 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100
Best Crew Photo - Jared Hardey 36
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
GREAT JOB A-TEAM! 2019 - WINNERS
Best Plant Photo - Austin Wright Best Safety Photo - Joe Dutton
Best Equipment Photo - William Gearheart
Thanks for the
Submissions
Continue sending in jobsite pictures to be featured in social media posts and various marketing materials. Email pictures to crubio@ajaxpaving.com
Best Job Photo - Brett Wyrick
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CAREER MILESTONES Celebrating Years of Service - Congratulations Ajax Employeees! During Ajax’s Safety Day in Tampa and Ft. Myers, service awards were presented to our dedicated A-Team on their career milestones. We greatly appreciate your service and commitment through the years! It is your dedication, reliability and loyalty that has helped Ajax to be a successful company.
30 Years
20 Years
Mike Horan and Vince Hafeli presented Betty Myers with her 30 year service award.
Crystal Lesko, John Long, Avis Fuqua, Roger Owens, John Lake, and Jose Garcia (not pictured) celebrated 20 years with Ajax.
15 Years
Michel Wendt, Mitch Hain, Tommie Harris and Richard Rodrick receive their career milestones.
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Joseph Gauthier, Gregory Ruffin, Kevin Cruce celebrated 15 years with Ajax.
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CAREER MILESTONES continued from page 38
10 Years
Vince Hafeli and Mike Horan presented Ginger Johnson, Felipe Monroy, Robert Richardson, Jose Arellano and Bonifacio Dominguez with their 10 years of service milestone.
As our A-Team card states:
“Our reputation is important. It will be determined by the standards and behaviors of all of our people.”
5 Years
Celebrating 5 years with Ajax: Cody McEwen, Shane Stewart, Andre Pawliw, David Neal, James “Tommy“ Kidd, Wilmar Maldonado, Ronald Sweeris, Bobbi Jo Forman, James “Ralph“ Bridger, Elliott Kresse, Clay Cross, Desmin Belvin, Robert Rondeau, Curt Selbak, Payton Ray, Ryan McCutcheon, James Haywood, Rick Hargrove, Matthew Ford, Javier Garay, Jeffery Case-Mumby, Anthony Bogan and Pedrick Allen.
RETIREMENT Congrats on your retirement John Long! John Long’s journey with Ajax Paving started on September 13, 1999. On that day John started a job at Ajax Paving that slowly turned into a career. He came with an extensive background in the construction industry and desire to sell anything that was not screwed down. The old wives tale says, “he had a little black book full of contacts and it wasn’t old girl friends”. People from the industry knew him and he hit the streets selling commercial and private projects. It’s been over 20 years now and John is looking to start a new chapter in his life, so he’s made the decision to retire this year. The Ajax family feels blessed to have had John Long by our side for the last 20 years. We wish you luck as you move forward. Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC - Annual Magazine
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INGRID’S RETIREMENT PARTY Congrats on your retirement! On May 6, 2019, Ajax Paving hosted a retirement party at Sharky’s On the Pier in Venice for Ingrid Delaney. Ingrid and the Ajax family celebrated Ingrid’s accomplishments over the past 20 years. Ingrid will always be a dear friend to the Ajax Family. Thank you Ingrid for everything you have done over the years at Ajax. Enjoy your retirement and your new position as “Full-Time Nana!”
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Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC would like to congratulate Senior Estimator, Dave Reid’s son, Noah for receiving a college scholarship from the FTBA. Noah is attending Embry Riddle Aeronautical University as a US Navy Midshipman. He was awarded a full 4-year tuition ROTC scholarship from the Navy, a Presidential Scholarship from the University, and the FTBA scholarship. His major is engineering physics. Noah’s plans after college are to serve aboard nuclear submarines, and hopes to be an astronaut in the future. Ajax wishes you all the best as you start this exciting new journey, Noah! Hannah Mace, daughter of Ginger Johnson, received the 2019 FTBA scholarship. She is a graduate of Charlotte High School and started attending the University of South Florida in the Fall of 2019. She is majoring in Health Sciences and is expected to graduate a year early in the Spring of 2022. Hannah wishes to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant. Good luck in all of your future endeavors, Hannah!
Congratulations to General Manager of Estimating, Christie Alvaro’s daughter, Catherine for receiving a college scholarship from the ACAF. Catherine is headed to USF in the Fall to study ( ) Ajax wishes you the best in all of your future endeavors Catherine!
Ajax Paving Industries of FL, LLC would like to congratulate Project Manager, Jim Price’s son, Diego for receiving a college scholarship from the FTBA. Diego is attending the University of Florida, and is majoring in Materials Engineering. Diego stays active playing numerous intramural sports, hiking and snowboarding with campus clubs. In the spring semester, he rushed a fraternity and dodged Coronavirus. Ajax wishes you all the best Diego!
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH
A
jax Paving takes great pride in giving back to the communities we live and work in. In 2019, the employees at Ajax came together to volunteer their time, money and hearts to a plethora of charitable organizations. In 2019, Ajax participated and donated to many of the same organizations from previous years such as, Clay Shooting Tournament, Florida International Airshow and donated materials to various organizations, just to name a few. Ajax also added new organizations into the mix expanding our employees reach and positively promoting who we are at Ajax. Without the support from Mike Horan, Vince Hafeli, and our employees, none of this would be possible. Heading into 2020, I am positive we will have an even bigger impact and continue to come together to make a difference.
Written by, Cassie Rubio, Marketing & Public Relations Cereal for Summer - In 2019 Ajax’s Tampa, Venice and Fort Myers offices came together to collect and donate cereal and other breakfast items in conjuction with Feeding Tampa Bay. Ajax’s Tampa office has been contributing for the past few years but in 2019 stepped it up by including all areas. Special thanks to Jim Price for recommending this organization and Dan Maitland for transporting the cereal up to Tampa from Ft. Myers and Venice! Great work A-Team!
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH Habitat for Humanity Women’s Build Week - On November 4th, 2019 Ajax Paving sponsored Habitat for Humanity’s Third Annual Women’s Build Week. Angela Wike, Bobbi Jo Foreman, Cassie Rubio, Jennifer Kline and Nancy Bachop represented Ajax during the event. The ladies spent the day installing furring strips on walls, assisting with the construction of window framing and putting in windows. In addition to Ajax’s sponsorship, Ajax raised $805.00 that was donated to the homeowner. The homeowner is putting in 300 sweat hours into the construction of her new home. It was extremely rewarding to be able to work alongside her and she expressed great gratitude to Ajax. A special thank you to all of the Ajax employees who contributed donations.
Bridging Freedom Clay Shoot Tournament - On February 20, 2020, Ajax employees Mark Miller, Dee Rodriguez, Spencer Wadsworth and Jayson Brown participated in a clay shooting tournament benefiting Bridging Freedom; Restoring Stolen Childhoods – hosted by Transcor Recycling, LLC. Bridging Freedom’s mission is to combat minor sextrafficking by bringing restoration to those rescued and victim prevention. The A-Team not only participated to raise awareness about human trafficking and support Bridging Freedom’s overall mission, they also received first place in the tournament! Congratulations to Mark, Dee, Spencer and Jayson. Great job representing Ajax!
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH
HOLIDAY DRIVES
Tis’ the season for giving! Thank you to all of our Ajax employees who took initiative during the holidays to give back to the communities we live and work in. Each area participated in a Thanksgiving food drive as well as a Christmas toy drive. For Ajax’s Thanksgiving drive the North Venice office collected linens and food for the Sarasota Salvation Army Emergency Shelter. The Fort Myers office collected food for Gladiolus Food Pantry, and the Tampa office held a food drive for local charity and organization Metropolitan Ministries. All three areas were extremely successful in their Thanksgiving efforts; however, we did not stop there!
Each area participated in a Christmas toy drive. Jamie Simmons headed up the Main Office drive for Our Mother’s House, complete with a toy wrapping party. Ajax’s Fort Myers office collected toys for Golisano Children’s Hospital. Shout-out to Danielle Benetivigna for transporting the toys to the hospital. The Tampa office collected toys for Metropolitan Ministries and set up a Christmas tree in the office in an effort to remind employees to donate, and of course spread holiday cheer.
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Special thank you to Arielle Zazkik, Nancy Bachop, Angela Wike and Jayson Brown’s daughter for helping decorate the tree!
🎄🕎
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Thank you to all the employees who suggested organizations, donated, organized, transported and most importantly helped keep the giving spirit alive. You all made such an impact and difference!
MAIL BAG
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MAIL BAG
B O J T A E R G ! M A E T A 46
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AJAX IN ACTION
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ASPHALT PLANTS:
OFFICES:
Punta Gorda: 239-543-4544
Fort Myers: 239-936-9444
Port Manatee: 941-845-1138
Tampa: 813-769-1990
North Venice: 941-486-3420
Fort Myers: 239-489-3320 Odessa: 727-375-5780 Tampa: 813-574-8331 Largo: 727-499-2168
North Venice: 941-486-3600