UCPRC TEST TRACK
PRESIDENT &
Sustainability is part and parcel to the
FEATURE STORY
University of California Pavement Research Center paves the way for sustainability and innovation
FEATURE
Bridging the gap: How Bulk Exchange connects suppliers to contractors and students to careers in heavy civil construction
ENVIRONMENT
Species protection and climate change: Examining California's approach to preservation and costs
ENVIRONMENT
Industry sustainability awards and honors
LEGISLATIVE
Navigating the post-election landscape as the 2025-26 legislative session begins
2024 EDUCATION CONFERENCE
If it’s built, we’re in it
Editor
2025: A year for change, teamwork and working toward goals
It is my honor to serve as your chairperson on the Executive Committee for CalCIMA for the next two years. I’d like to begin my service by thanking Marty Hansberger for serving on the Executive Committee as Immediate Past Chairman and Jamie Polomsky for serving the last two years as Chairman. For anyone who has served as an officer for an association or non-profit, the role is often like a second job, and I appreciate their dedicated and thoughtful service on behalf of all member companies. Having worked in the construction industry for nearly 40 years, I understand the feeling that executives and business owners have about paying dues as a member of an association. Dues often feel like taxes, and for many of us, that is not a good feeling.
In any case, my mission stepping into the Chairman’s role at CalCIMA is for each member company to feel that they are getting a good return on their investment paying dues. Some of the leadership decisions we face going forward cannot be accomplished in isolation. No matter how much influence our company may have in the local community, many of the challenges we will face require the teamwork of the collective industry – across concrete, asphalt, aggregates, industrial minerals and our allies.
Over the last few years, the CalCIMA Board has directed Robert Dugan and his team to fundamentally change our direction. We need to elevate our industry where all community stakeholders understand that “if it’s built, we’re in it.” Our goal is simple – to have regulators and elected officials seek our advice beforehand in their decision-making process knowing our input is as essential as the materials we produce. This is an ambitious goal, and we can only accomplish it by collectively and lawfully working together so our industry can continue to prosper by providing quality and competitive construction and industrial materials and services.
I am proud to be part of an industry where so many companies are doing great environmental-related work in our communities. You’ll find a few of them highlighted in this issue, including advancing research to develop more sustainable products, award worthy environmental achievements, and a recap of our successful 2024 Education Conference.
As your chairperson on the Executive Committee of CalCIMA, my door is always open to your input and suggestions. Let’s have a great 2025 and keep CalCIMA moving in a positive direction. n
Dana Davis President - Teichert Materials CalCIMA Chairman
PRESIDENT & CEO MESSAGE
Sustainability is part and parcel to the ethos of our industry
Innovation within our industry is rapidly changing, and now is the time to examine the big picture. Our industry has a responsibility to the people and communities in which we serve, and that begins with prioritizing sustainability and the environment.
Our industries have long been at the forefront of conservation, and recent events exemplify recovery and rebuilding, too. Many of our companies and their partners are the sincerest form of environmentalism, consistently demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and stewardship.
When I first joined CalCIMA, I flipped through the history books here in the office. It struck me, the lengths to which our companies went to mitigate their impacts. Among other efforts across the board, some operations actually managed Joshua Tree nurseries decades ago to preserve and enhance native plant species during and after mining activities. Efforts like these reflect the foresight and dedication of industry leaders who understand the balance between resource extraction and environmental preservation, and we need to tell our story!
Our industries have always considered the long-term uses of the areas we work in, ensuring that they are restored and repurposed for future generations. From the Surface Mining and Reclamation Act, which requires that mines be returned and reclaimed to a useful condition, to local ordinances regarding environmental preservation, our industry has embraced its responsibility to the planet and its people. Mine reclamation projects often transform former mining sites into parks, neighborhoods, wetlands, and
other community spaces, blending functionality with nature.
Climate change represents one of the most significant challenges of our time. Our industry is stepping up through implementing cleaner technologies and reducing emissions, to recycling asphalt and concrete. Our members are continuously adopting practices that lessen our environmental footprint while continuing to deliver the essential materials that are the foundation of modern society and the human environment.
The need to address global climate change is only one part of the equation. Water conservation, habitat restoration, and biodiversity preservation are equally important areas where our industries are making substantial contributions. By integrating advanced technologies, such as water recycling systems and precision equipment, we are minimizing waste and enhancing efficiency.
Our industry’s commitment to the environment is central to the ethos of our industry. Implementing sustainable practices are not only beneficial for the planet, but an essential piece to our long-term success.
As we look ahead, our industries will continue to lead with integrity and responsibility. Together, we are building a future that is mindful of the natural world while fostering economic growth and community development. n
Sincerely,
Robert Dugan President/CEO CalCIMA
University of California Pavement Research Center paves the way for innovation
By Julia Maldonado, Communications Coordinator and Cameron Richardson, Director of Technical Affairs, CalCIMA
Nestled within Davis, California, the University of California Pavement Research Center (UCPRC) is a leading institution dedicated to improving pavement structures, materials, technologies and methods. A collaboration between University of California, Davis (UC Davis) and University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley), the UCPRC strives to develop and speed implementation of cost-effective and sustainable technologies and provide data, analysis and tools for various state and federal transportation agencies, primarily
the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The UCPRC's approach to technology and step-wise development and implementation support is derived from many decades of working to improve asphalt, concrete, and other pavement recycling strategies. Beginning operation in 1948 at UC Berkeley and later 2002 at UC Davis, pavement research was initially funded through the Institute of Transportation Studies and grew during the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) in the early 1990s.
“A lot of the main concepts that we’re talking about with performance-related testing actually come from the SHRP project in the early ‘90s,” said Dr. John Harvey, Professor of
Civil and Environmental Engineering at UC Davis and Director at the UCPRC.
The UCPRC is managed by Harvey, Associate Director David Jones; future Director and UCD Associate Professor Somayeh Nassiri; R&D Engineer and Laboratory Manager Jeffrey Buscheck; Project Manager and Project Scientist Ali Butts; Research Engineer, Principal Investigator, and UC Davis Adjunct Professor Angel Mateos; Research Engineer Jeremy Lea; and Project Manager and Project Scientist Rongzong Wu. They are supported by many more R&D Engineers, post-doctoral researchers, graduate and undergraduate students, and additional support staff.
The UCPRC’s mission is “providing knowledge (and) using innovative research and sound engineering principles to improve pavement structures, materials,
Above: UCPRC’s pavement test track is one of many projects the research center develops. Other current projects include pavement preservation, low carbon concrete adoption, and a fine rubber road levee pilot.
and technologies,” according to its website. Using an academic approach of initial studies, research, development, testing and implementation, the research center is currently working on 17 different pavement related projects, which includes pavement preservation, low carbon concrete adoption, a fine rubber road levee pilot project, and an asphalt performance-related balanced mix design test track. Other pavement research road maps include environmental life cycle assessment, cold recycling, recycled asphalt pavements (RAP) / reclaimed asphalt shingles (RAS), mechanistic-empirical design for concrete and asphalt pavement, and much more.
CalCIMA members have been highly involved in projects conducted over the years at UCPRC. They have most recently donated time and materials to the balanced mix design (BMD) test
track (Reed Family Companies), concrete for reflective cracking sections (CEMEX), base material (Teichert Materials) and construction for (Reed Family Companies) / hot mix asphalt material (Granite Construction). Additionally, associate members Ingevity and G3 Quality donated additives and conducted in-place density testing for the BMD asphalt test section. From Bob Siffert, Evotherm Business Development Manager, “Ingevity is proud to be a part of UCPRC’s test track! Innovation is the lifeblood of asphalt development, yet it thrives only when academia, agency, and industry work together. The synergy on the test track exemplifies the exciting potential of such partnerships, paving the way for advancements in asphalt."
Teichert also contributed to the fine rubber levee road pilot project, which tests one lane paved
with hot mix asphalt (no rubber) and the other with four rubberized hot mix asphalt (RHMA-D) with 25% RAP. These contributions ultimately help the UCPRC and Caltrans work toward lower carbon goals and provide industry with greater flexibility of production and constructability.
The research center has a huge impact on the world around it, influencing students, the public, and Caltrans. UCPRC generated research has been an integral part in supporting the Pavement Materials Partnering Committee (PMPC). The PMPC has used this data as guidance in developing and modifying material and construction standards. As an educational institution, the UCPRC helps train the future workforce. UC Davis and Berkeley undergraduate and graduate students have the opportunity to learn about the innovation before going on to work
Ingevity, G3 Quality and CalAPA all played a role in creating the test track.
Below: Many hands go into the construction of the test track, including spreading the asphalt and compacting it with multiple rollers. The workers spread the asphalt lane by lane with different mix designs.
for Caltrans, other agencies, and industry.
“By engaging all these young people in the enterprise of innovation and learning about pavement, (students are) getting excited about pavement and choosing to go to work for Caltrans, industry and also for local government to some degree, building the workforce through experience,” Harvey added.
The UCPRC’s research and development is a critical component to Caltrans. In order for Caltrans to meet its sustainability and efficiency goals, such as California’s net-zero carbon by 2045, the UCPRC helps do research and analysis. The research center then delivers its findings to Caltrans for implementation and allows for a more streamlined process.
“Sustainability is one of Caltrans’ main goals,” added Somayeh Mafi, Transportation Engineer at Caltrans. She emphasized that Caltrans is focused on implementation, and having UCPRC conduct the research helps Caltrans decrease the cost of construction. Caltrans’ focus on implementation is mirrored in John Harvey’s 1:3:6 mantra on academic development: 10% of your time should be spent on research, 30% on development, and 60% on implementation.
Not only does the UCPRC strive to help meet California’s 2045 net-zero goal, but the center supports operations and continuous improvement after implementation of research and development, while starting research and development on new concepts. CalCIMA members will continue to actively
participate with future UCPRC projects as it moves forward to more innovative practices in the construction materials industry.
“By keeping those systems going and continuously improving and cultivating, and then using them to drive this innovation faster we will help achieve these massive goals that the state has,” Harvey said.
As the construction and pavement industries navigate challenges when it comes to lower carbon goals, the UCPRC serves as a beacon of innovation. With projects such as the test track, low carbon concrete adoption, fine rubber road levee pilot project and more, the future of environmentally conscious infrastructure is here. n
Above: Four versions of a balanced asphalt mix design are paved side by side.
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BRIDGING THE GAP:
By Paul Foley, CEO of Bulk Exchange
How Bulk Exchange connects suppliers to contractors and students to careers in heavy civil construction
The heavy civil construction industry faces labor shortages, technological change, and climate concerns. Fostering a strong connection between supply and demand has become paramount. Bulk Exchange is meeting this challenge by engaging the next generation of industry professionals through educational events and partnerships with industry leaders. Their recent event, The Future of Search, was held on November 19th at California State University, Chico. It exemplified this mission by bringing together students, faculty, and construction experts for an
immersive experience in career exploration and industry insight.
Tackling the Labor Shortage with Industry Collaboration
Heavy civil construction is grappling with a substantial labor shortage. Bulk Exchange’s events address this gap by creating dynamic connections between students and professionals from top firms such as HCSS, a leader in construction software, and CalCIMA. These events make construction a more modern and viable career choice for students.
“Having industry experts on campus gives our students an
unparalleled view into what their future careers can look like,” says Chris Souder, Head of the Construction Management program at Chico. “It’s invaluable for them to interact directly with professionals who can share realworld knowledge and advice. It brings theory to life and deepens their engagement with the field.”
Nick Steinberg, Head of Chico’s Concrete Industry Management (CIM) course, emphasizes the importance of these face-to-face connections. “When students meet industry professionals, they don’t just learn from textbooks. They’re building relationships and seeing
the future of construction through the eyes of people who’ve helped shape it.”
Building Partnerships with Leading Industry Voices
For Bulk Exchange, partnering with industry leaders adds immense value to the student experience. Organizations like HCSS, and CalCIMA, bring critical insights into the evolving construction landscape.
One such topic, sustainability, was highlighted through CalCIMA’s “Distance Matters” initiative, which emphasizes reducing the environmental impact of
transportation in construction projects. Robert Dugan, President and CEO of CalCIMA, spoke to students about this approach, sharing insights on how sustainability can be implemented at every stage of construction. “The ‘Distance Matters’ initiative is about understanding the full environmental
impact of our projects—from sourcing to delivery,” explains Dugan. “By being mindful of distance, we reduce our carbon footprint and enhance the efficiency of the entire supply chain. It’s a critical way for young professionals to think about the sustainability challenges we’re tackling.”
Amanda Ayles, HCSS Product Manager, HeavyBid.
“Bulk Exchange is revolutionizing job bid communication by seamlessly connecting suppliers and purchasers through a productive and convenient search engine.”
Nick Steinberg Program Director, Concrete Industry Management
Robert Dugan, President & CEO of CalCIMA.
Integrating Technology in the Student Experience
Technology is a driving force in modern construction, and Bulk Exchange’s events ensure students are exposed to the latest advancements. At The Future of Search, students heard from Amanda Ayles, Product Manager at HCSS, who guided them through HCSS software—a core component of their curriculum. She highlighted how her team prioritizes features to address the specific needs of contractors, directly impacting their efficiency, cost management, and project outcomes.
“Technology is reshaping the industry at every level,” says Ayles. “It’s rewarding to share how software and technology can help construction teams manage projects more efficiently, predict issues before they arise, and reduce waste. By training on HCSS software as part of their coursework, students gain
“I am very impressed with how Bulk Exchange has started its journey to creating a state of the art communication platform between contractors and suppliers. They are really making an effort to engage everyone in the process from the beginning, including higher education and the future of our industry. There is no doubt in my mind that Bulk Exchange will be the standard that our industry relies on for its material needs.”
hands-on skills that are incredibly valuable in today’s data-driven world. It’s a huge asset as they enter the workforce.”
Preparing Students for a Sustainable Future
One of Bulk Exchange’s key missions is to ensure students understand the industry’s impact on society and the environment. By collaborating with industry experts passionate about sustainability and innovation, events like The Future of Search inspire students to think critically about their role in shaping a more sustainable future for construction.
“Students today want to make a difference, and we need to show them that they can do that in this industry,” Souder adds. “They’re going to be the ones who push for greener practices, efficient technology, and safer work environments. Our job is to provide the tools and networks that help them get there.”
Through these events, Bulk Exchange continues to address labor shortages by fostering direct connections between students and industry leaders, making construction a more appealing field for young people By engaging with companies at the forefront of technology and sustainability, students are introduced to the possibilities within heavy civil construction and equipped with the tools they need to build a promising future. n
Chris Souder Professor, Construction Management, CSU
Chris Souder, Head of Chico’s Construction Management Program (Left) and Paul Foley, Bulk Exchange CEO and Co-Founder (Right).
Species protection and climate change: examining California's approach to preservation and costs
By Adam Harper, Senior Director of Policy, CalCIMA
Climate change concerns are rapidly driving changes in species and habitat policies in California and around the world. Long-held species and habitat conservation policies are shifting towards preservation, with millions of acres targeted for preservation without clear funding or acquisition strategies. These policies leverage existing laws and introduce new ones to protect species from climate change and restrict human activities on such lands. The shift to preservation is evidenced by California's 30x30 policy, which seeks to preserve 30% of the state's lands and waters.
However, detailed cost discussions remain limited. While some general fund spending and federal support exist, significant funding gaps persist to achieve the targets of preserving 30% of our lands and waters.
Species policy often relies on project-specific mitigation aligned with broader goals, such as the 30x30 initiative. California aims to preserve 30% of its lands and waters as "durably protected and managed" areas to address climate change. This aligns with America’s conservation tradition, which established public lands for multiple uses. In 2022, the state identified 24% of its lands as durably protected, leaving 6% to meet the 30% target. This 6% equals the size of all human-developed lands in
California, excluding croplands. By 2030, an additional 4.8 million acres must be acquired and preserved. Recently, monument designations by former President Biden added more than 800,000 acres to the total, reducing the remaining target to approximately 4 million acres.
The 2024 30x30 update provides insights into costs. For instance, the Tribal NatureBased Solutions Grant Program allocated $1.3 billion over three years to conserve 38,950 acres, translating to roughly $33,000 per acre. This highlights the substantial funding required to meet the remaining targets. Historically, species protection policies required local developers to mitigate the environmental impacts of their projects, such as habitat destruction caused by construction. This approach has not evolved significantly,
and developers are now also being asked to address climaterelated impacts on species. These additional mandates place a growing financial burden on project developers, which is ultimately passed on to consumers.
Additionally, accelerated species listing petitions by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are expanding the number of protected species due to climate change, further increasing costs for local projects. Examples include the Crotch Bumble Bee, Western Joshua Tree, and Western Burrowing Owl. The increasing number of petitions under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) reflects this trend, with nearly all resulting in candidate or listed status. A CalCIMA review of Incidental Take Permits found
Photo credit: California Department of Fish and Wildlife
compensation security costs averaging over $12,000 per acre, excluding operational mitigation expenses.
For instance, the Western Joshua Tree petition led to legislation introducing a per-tree fee and development of a conservation plan. The draft conservation plan for the Joshua Tree encompasses 15,575 square miles, significantly exceeding the species’ habitat range of 5,053 square miles. The plan aims to protect 90% of predicted climate refugia in the range, amounting to 479,496 acres based on a CalCIMA analysis. The measures include complex requirements such as memorandums of understanding, tree-counting protocols, and fire management guidance from the California Department of Fish
and Wildlife (CDFW) for fire departments. These costs are predominantly borne by local economies through impact fees rather than by those contributing to climate change.
Climate adaptation projects, though essential for societal well-being, inevitably impact species and habitats. These projects, which are critical for addressing climate resilience, must also navigate the financial and regulatory burdens of species mitigation. As such, costs are often passed forward to climate adaptation and renewable energy.
It remains to be seen whether California will consider mitigating the financial impacts of these policies on rural economies based on natural resources, or if these communities will
continue to bear the brunt of climate-related costs. Similar to international efforts to support developing nations facing climate challenges, the question arises: Should there be a more equitable distribution of these climate costs? Ultimately, the allocation of financial responsibility for climate change’s effects on species and habitats is a decision for policymakers to address. Our role is to highlight these pressing questions, ensuring they are part of the broader conversation on human adaptation, conservation and climate policy. For now California policy makers are choosing to bill the future for climate change costs, despite rhetoric to the contrary. n
Streamline Sustainability
Amcast / Blow Bars
American Eagle / Belt Scrapers
Beltway / Belt Scales
Donaldson / Dust Collectors
Kenco / Cutting Edges
Luff / Idlers
Monarch / Pulleys
Rockshield / Rubber Screen Panels
Terex|Cedarapids / Jaws, Cones, Screens & Feeders
Terex|Canica / VSI Crushers
Weg & Worldwide / Electric Motors
Weir Minerals|Trio / Crushing, Screening & Washing Equipment
Please consider the following criteria for your submission:
• Infrastructure & Public Works
• Environment & Sustainability
• Innovation in Design & Engineering
• Community Impact Projects
Why submit?
• Recognition: Get featured in an upcoming issue of The Conveyor and across our digital platforms. Highlight your company’s expertise and leadership in quality construction.
How to submit:
• Email your project details, photos, and highlights to: jmaldonado@calcima.org – Please put “CALL FOR PROJECTS” in the subject line.
Don’t miss this opportunity to get your work in the spotlight! Submit your project today and let your accomplishments inspire the construction industry!
Industry sustainability awards and honors
CalCIMA members and industry have made great strides in the world of sustainability in 2024. From grants, to awards, to sustainability reports, our industry is achieving huge environmental goals. Congratulations to all for their achievements!
• Fortera CEO Ryan Gilliam makes TIME100 Climate 2024. This list looked at climate leaders who made “measurable, scalable achievements over commitments and announcements. (TIME) favored more recent action.” Fortera was highlighted due to its first commercial climate-friendly cement plant in California, and first in North America.
• Granite Construction was honored for its environmental excellence from NSSGA. The company won awards for its Bee Rock Quarry, Santa Barbara (Gold, Facility - Environmental Excellence); Bradshaw Facility, Sacramento (Silver, Facility - Safety Excellence); Big Rock Aggregates Plant, Llano (Bronze - Facility –Environmental Excellence)
• Holliday Rock highlighted its dedication to the environment in its first sustainability report, which details key highlights and achievements, notable projects, Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), future sustainability initiatives and more.
• Vulcan Materials Company’s Chula Vista Stone was the platinum winner at NSSGA’s
2024 Community Relations Excellence Awards. “The Community Relations Excellence Awards recognize aggregates producers for their generous contributions to their communities and their work enhancing public perception of their individual operations and the entire industry,” according to NSSGA’s press release. Vulcan’s Chula Vista Stone was the highest scoring application. Gold winners included Vulcan, Martin Marietta and CEMEX.
• Producer members Granite Construction and Vulcan Materials company were named one of America's most responsible companies by Newsweek, with Granite Construction ranked #321 and Vulcan Materials ranked #510. Winners were chosen based on their environmental, social and corporate governance concerns (ESG). Newsweek analyzes based on 30 key performance indicators and a survey of over 26,000 U.S. consumers.
• NAPA received a $10 million sustainability grant for Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). NAPA plans to:
◦ Improve asphalt EPDs
◦ Help the workforce understand the life cycle analysis and EPD connection
• NRMCA was selected for an Environmental Protection Agency grant totaling $9.63 million. According to its press release, NRMCA plans to:
◦ Increase the quantity and robustness of ready-mix concrete Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) by providing grants to producers to create EPDs from an additional 3,000 plants (up from 1,500 currently).
◦ Provide data quality management oversight and training, as well as education for producers by training additional EPD verifiers and certifying up to 500 EPD specialists through an online education system.
◦ Enhance its existing low-carbon concrete tool and host five low-carbon concrete training workshops per year for five years.
• Improve the Product Category Rules (PCRs) for concrete and data availability for critical inputs, including cementitious materials, aggregates, and admixtures.
• NSSGA was selected for an Environmental Protection Agency grant totalling $9.65 million. According to its press release, NSSGA plans to:
◦ NSSGA to become program operator for Aggregates Industry PCR and EPD: NSSGA will have full-time staff to administer the program, facilitating more robust updates and ensuring comprehensive oversight.
◦ Access to Digital Tools and Solutions: Providing the aggregates industry with robust tools to transparently report the environmental impacts of their products.
◦ Comprehensive Training Programs: In collaboration with state associations,
universities, and other partners, equipping industry professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to implement sustainable practices, perform life cycle assessments and produce EPDs.
• Best Management Practices for CO2 Reduction and Sequestration: Establishing and promoting guidelines that help the industry reduce its carbon footprint and enhance its ability to sequester CO2 effectively. n
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Navigating the post-election landscape as the 2025-26 legislative session begins
By Erik Turner, Director of Legislative Affairs, CalCIMA
The common narrative postelection largely centered around a rightward political shift. This was reflected in our state in many ways, but at the end of the day, the longheld Democrat supermajorities were maintained in the California legislature. The state’s high cost of living and the incoming Trump administration will certainly shape Governor Newsom’s and the legislature’s evolving policy priorities, as evidenced already by a notable rhetorical focus on affordability voiced by state leaders.
Whether merely paying lip service in reaction to the election or if we will see this new focus on affordability actualized in legislation remains to be seen, here are some assurances that affordability will be top of mind, as legislative leaders have publicly affirmed their focus. This session will be advancing policies that lower the cost of living, including by building more housing, addressing energy costs, and improving public infrastructure. Regardless, the legislature will undoubtedly continue to advance progressive policy proposals, with significant implications related to climate and sustainability, infrastructure development, and labor protections.
Environment
Both the Senate and Assembly have established working groups to tackle the coming renewal of the state’s cap-and-trade program. California’s ambitious climate program that mandates limits on greenhouse gas emissions while
allowing businesses to buy and sell emission allowances is set to expire in 2030–is one area to watch closely. The Senate Pro Tem was asked around the election about reauthorizing the program and stated, “We plan to hit the ground running come January. The Golden State leads the nation on advancing bold, evidence-based climate policy.”
Public Infrastructure
Voters approved both statewide bond measures (Propositions 2 & 4) to fund public school and community college facilities and climate change through clean energy, drought mitigation, wildfire prevention, and sea-level rise adaptation. But voters also rejected some high-profile transportation revenue measures at the local level. The road ahead to replace declining gas tax revenues as the state continues its shift to electric vehicles will almost certainly face obstacles. CalCIMA
is actively engaged in discussions and negotiations on this policy proposal as we head into the new legislative session.
Permitting Reform
The California legislature is actively pursuing permitting reform to address challenges in housing development, clean energy infrastructure, and climate resilience projects. In 2024, the Assembly established the Select Committee on Permitting Reform, chaired by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, to lay the groundwork for legislation aimed at streamlining processes to facilitate timely and efficient project approvals and we expect to see bills introduced on this issue.
Labor Market Dynamics & Immigration
Anticipated reforms in immigration policies at the national level–which will be at odds with California’s sanctuary state laws–could exacerbate workforce shortages and increase labor costs. These changes might challenge affordability for both private and public projects. Similar to the first Trump administration, California will continue to fight back by aiming to protect the state’s undocumented populations.
In short…
As the state’s ambitious climate & sustainability goals run headon into affordability challenges, CalCIMA looks forward to working with our industry and legislative partners to continue advancing our industry goals in the state. n
2024 EDUCATION CONFERENCE
IF IT’S BUILT, WE’RE IN IT
The 2024 Education Conference took place October 28-31, 2024 at the Meritage Resort and Spa in beautiful Napa, California. Featuring 44 informative
presentations on sustainability, materials, and economics, as well as an exhibit hall, awards, and receptions, this conference was one to remember. Thank you to all the speakers and attendees
Pat Imhoff, CalPortland (left), John Holliday, Holliday Rock, Dana Davis, Teichert, Debbie Haldeman-Wells, CEMEX and Ron Stickel at the Women of CalCIMA mixer.
Robert Dugan, President and CEO of CalCIMA (left), alongside outgoing Chairman Jamie Polomsky of Vulcan Materials and incoming Chairman Dana Davis of Teichert.
for another great conference, and we look forward to seeing you this year at the Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa in Anaheim. n
Alex Sheen, Founder of "because I said I would." delivers the keynote address about the importance of keeping promises.
Robert Dugan, CalCIMA (left) with panel members Nile Elam, NAPA, Evan Bender, NSSGA, Chris Greissing, EMA and Gregg Lewis, NRMCA.
Martin Marietta sponsored the Women of CalCIMA’s mixer, pictured left to right Andrew Suarez, Cole Jacobs, Talisa Flagan, Ryan Merritt and Joao Esteves.
Assemblyman Damon Connolly, District 12 kicked off the conference with a welcome message from the State Capitol.
Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil, District 4 delivered a speech at the conference.
CalCIMA Award Winners
Dedication to the association, commitment to the membership, and outstanding support of the industry.
Associate of the Year Award
Dedication to the Association, commitment to the membership, and outstanding support of the industry.
2024 Services: Kit Cole, Kit Cole Consulting (left).
2024 Goods: Kevin Homuth, ConTech Manufacturing.
Special Recognition Award
President’s Award
Dedication to the mission and goals of the Association, as well as commitment to the preservation of the industry.
Benjamin J. Licari Distinguished Person Award
Judy Kelly of Reed Family Companies received the award for her dedication to CalCIMA and her efforts to promote its benefits to peers, helping to build a greater and more successful organization.
Members exploring the exhibit hall and engaging with vendors and their displays during a break.
CalCIMA staff in their marvel-ous costumes at the awards banquet.
One of the many breakout sessions on concrete, each breakout had a strong turnout and engaged attendees.
Asphalt sustainable future panel breakout hosted by
Tony Limas
Cameron Richardson (left), Robert Dugan, Tony Limas, and Jamie Polomsky of Vulcan Materials.
Martin Hansberger of Holliday Rock (center).
Cameron Richardson.
Excellence in Safety Award Winners
The CalCIMA Excellence in Safety Awards were presented by Michael Herges, Graniterock (retired) and CalCIMA's Safety Consultant, along with Troy Van Wey and Brian Thompson from the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
• A & A Ready Mixed Concrete, Inc.
• Benchmark Resources
• BoDean (a CRH company)
• Brown and Caldwell
• Bulk Exchange
• CalPortland
• CarbonCure
• Cemex
• CertainTeed
• Climate Earth
• Conn-Weld Industries, LLC
• Con-Tech Manufacturing
• Crystal Waters Consulting, LLC
• Everview Law
• Granite Construction
• Graniterock
• Harrison Temblador Hungerford & Guernsey
• Holliday Rock Co., Inc.
• Hunton Andrews Kurth LLC
• Ingevity
• Jeffer Mangles Butler & Mitchell
• Lilburn Corporation
• Martin Marietta
• Mitchell Chadwick LLP
• National Ready Mixed Concrete Co.
• Penetron USA, Inc.
• Reed Family Companies
• Revolution Concrete Mixers
• Sespe Consulting
• Superior Industries
• Surface Tech
• Sysdyne Technologies
• Taylor Environmental Services, Inc.
• Teichert
• Vulcan Materials Company
• WRA
• Yorke Engineering
Large Aggregate Mine
United Rock Products – Irwindale Mine
Troy Van Wey (left), Mark Pachura, Chad Ouellett and Brian Thompson
Small Aggregate Mine
Pine Creek Chico Quarry - 7/11 Materials
Troy Van Wey (left), Garrett Goracy, Josh Gay, Brian Thompson
Industrial Minerals
Blue Mountain Minerals
Troy Van Wey (left), John Salkowski, Brian Thompson
Concrete Plant:
National Ready Mixed Concrete Company - Ontario
Troy Van Wey (left), Cameron Kane, Pat Catlin, Danny Susdorf, Michael Herges
Daniel Avalos, Vulcan Materials Company
Troy Van Wey (left), Daniel Avalos, Brian Thompson
Paul Sibole (left), Michael Herges
Troy Van Wey (left), Arturo Gudino, Summer Jett, Brian Thompson
• Utilizing Type 1L (HS) low carbon cement to reduce embodied carbon and CO2 emissions.
• Providing innovative, high performance mix designs with third party verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) available with every mix.
• Incorporating a large fleet of bulk material haulers (aggregate and cement) and concrete mixers that run on renewable natural gas RNG, reducing GHG emissions.
• Technically advanced, high production facilities providing superior quality and service throughout Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura Counties.
National association news
ESSENTIAL MINERALS ASSOCIATION (EMA)
Essential Minerals Association Industry Update
The Republican-controlled Congress and Trump Administration are likely to be very active over the next 12-18 months to push their overall agenda. We are likely to see legislative and regulatory activity related to permitting reform and public lands reforms impacting the minerals industry. In addition, there will be substantial legislative activity on tax reform as the provisions in the 2017 tax reform package are set to expire.
EMA has been actively advocating and educating key Congressional offices and committees, specifically on the Percentage Depletion Tax Deduction. EMA will be working closely with the CalCIMA team to ensure the industry’s priorities continue to be retained.
EMA will be returning to California to host its Annual Conference, May 5-8, 2025, in Monterey, California. We are excited to have CalCIMA President Robert Dugan as one of our featured speakers. More info on the meeting is online: https://www.essentialminerals.org/ event/2025-annual-conference/
NATIONAL ASPHALT PAVEMENT ASSOCIATION (NAPA)
NAPA’s Election & Policy Outlook for 2025
With the 119th Congress settled, Republicans will control the White House and Congress –similar to President Trump’s first two years in office (2017-2018). While the Senate margin will give the GOP some flexibility in their rank and file, the House margin will be even smaller than the
current Republican advantage. Amid these developments, NAPA anticipated broad action in early 2025, including drafts of the next highway reauthorization package (IIJA expires September 30, 2026) and a potential tax package via Budget Reconciliation. NAPA’s Government Affairs team drafted various policy papers, executed dozens of year-end meetings with returning Members of Congress on committees of jurisdiction, and targeted outreach to Trump’s transition team on key priorities. After working closely with House Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) Committee members toward an exemption waiver, NAPA welcomes the continued service of T&I Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO) – a promising development for the industry, with highway bill efforts expected to begin in earnest in 2025. NAPA encourages ongoing engagement in DC via the TCC Fly-In May 6-8 and Hill Day September 17-19, along with hosting in-district visits to your plant/site. NAPA members can contact us for assistance organizing meetings/visits.
NATIONAL STONE, SAND & GRAVEL ASSOCIATION (NSSGA)
Environmental Solutions at AGG1
If you’re looking for solutions to address your most important environmental challenges, look no further than the AGG1 Academy & Expo, taking place March 25-27 in St. Louis, MO. Co-located with World of Asphalt, AGG1 is the
industry’s premier expositional and educational resource showcasing the latest in aggregates equipment, services and innovations.
This year’s AGG1 will feature over 400 exhibitors, including many of the biggest names in crushing, screening, washing and conveying. Their cutting-edge products and services can help your operation meet its environmental goals, while enhancing efficiency and performance.
AGG1 will also include over 60 educational sessions for management and operational staff alike. Programming will include sessions on wet-processing recycled aggregate; maintaining a competitive edge while reducing emissions; sustainable quarry reclamation; and meeting ESG goals.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your business. To learn more and register, visit agg1.org
NATIONAL READY MIXED CONCRETE ASSOCIATION (NRMCA)
The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association recently prepared a statistical addendum to its Regional Benchmark Life-Cycle Assessment report. The purpose of the report is to evaluate factors that influence the Global Warming Potential (GWP) variability of ready mix concrete production and to propose 20th and 40th percent quintiles as well as average and median GWP benchmark values. These values coincide with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Interim Determination recommended values for substantially lower carbon emissions materials. The
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recently published the GWP quintiles on their Low Carbon Transportation Materials (LCTM) website for use by State Departments of Transportation to establish initial GWP thresholds for states that received LCTM grant funding. California received nearly $32 million from the LCTM
grant program. More information related to the LCTM grant funding, the concrete GWP benchmark values, and the concrete methodology report may be found at https://www. fhwa.dot.gov/lowcarbon/ thresholds/concrete.cfm n
KLEEMANN CRUSHING & SCREENING
“Everything
That’s Rubber”
• Belting
• Belt Lacing
• V Belts
• Hose
• Hose Fittings
• Hydraulic Hose, Tube & Couplings
• Hydraulic Adapters
Rainwear
Work Gloves
Rubber Boots
Tarp Material
Mats & Matting
Gasket Material
Gaskets
Sponge
Tubing
Sheet Rubber
Plastics
Adhesives
Fabrication
C I R MANUFACTURED CONVEYOR SYSTEMS
For all your conveyor belt and industrial rubber and plastics needs, including on-site belt splicing and custom manufactured conveyor systems
Bakersfield Branch
19428 Colombo Street
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Phone: 661-392-1912
bakersfield@cir.net
Yuba City Branch 1690 Sierra Avenue
Yuba City, CA 95993
Phone: 530-674-2444
yubacity@cir.net
Full Service Machine Shop
Fresno Branch 2539 South Cherry Ave. Fresno, CA 93706
Phone: 559-268-7321
fresno@cir.net
Carlin, NV 1120 Green St. Carlin, NV 89822
Phone: 775-754-6747 carlin@cir.net
Sliger Machineworks (A division of CIR) 3620 South Bagley Ave Fresno, CA 93725
Phone: 559-442-0211
machineworks@cir.net
Merced Branch 2280 Cooper Avenue Merced, CA 95348 Phone: 209-722-8844 merced@cir.net
Sparks, NV 1095 Spice Islands Dr. #103 Sparks, NV 89431 Phone: 775-356-0192 sparks@cir.net
Tulare Branch 4500 South "K" Street Tulare, CA 93274 Phone: 559-686-1677 tulare@cir.net
