In the arms race for ever more jobsite data, leveraging hardware and software into a single space, while remaining machine agnostic, is a step into the future.
PRODUCTION NOTES
18 A Leap Forward
Cutting-edge automation is revolutionizing road construction, but the truth is we may never reach a fully autonomous operation, and that’s a good thing.
FACE OF THE INDUSTRY
Redefining The Future
Meet Maya Sripadam, a Senior Product Manager behind John Deere’s push into construction autonomy with robotics and real-world innovation.
JOBSITE INNOVATIONS
Crossroads: Tech And Safety
Survive and thrive with these expert ideas to transforming dangerous work zones.
INVESTIGATING INFRASTRUCTURE
38 The Lean, Mean, Concrete-eating [Bacteria] Machine
Researchers from the Chalmers University of Technology found that a biofilm forms and deteriorates the surface of a concrete tunnel that’s surrounded by seawater.
Published and copyrighted 2025 by IRONMARKETS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher. Asphalt Contractor (ISSN 1055-9205, USPS 0020-688): is published ten times per year: January, February, March/April, May, June/July, August, September, October, November, December by IRONMARKETS, 201 N. Main St. Ste 350, Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin 53538. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin and additional entry offices.
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ON TRACK PERFORMANCE
With over a century of innovation to its credit, Blaw-Knox® pavers have earned a reputation for quality, durability, and performance unmatched in the industry. Our continued focus on innovation is what drives our product engineering with designs that improve performance while maintaining user-friendly, ergonomic comfort and reliability for the operator.
BLAW-KNOX, THE LEGACY LIVES ON.
For more information contact your Blaw-Knox dealer or visit www.blawknox.com
What SEISMIC Does For Asphalt | No Edge Lines
Season 2 Episode 7
Does size matter? It’s an age-old question, and for commercial asphalt contractors looking at rollers, it can make a world of difference.
Watch the video at: https://asph.link/9xzej0fu
Real Time Density Scanning For Asphalt
GSSI, a leader in the ground penetrating radar (GPR) equipment space, are partnering with HAMM AG to integrate a new sensor technology to their Smart Compact for tandem rollers.
Read more at: https://asph.link/ blf53fdm
Equipment Sale Leaseback: IRS vs. FASB Considerations
When it comes to IRS tax considerations or Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) considerations for an equipment sale leaseback, here are several key points to keep in mind.
Read more at: https://asph. link/j4la8xy9
The Hidden Costs of Overlooking Drainage Infrastructure
Poor drainage infrastructure design leads to costly delays. Learn how the right design of drainage system can improve project efficiency.
Read more at: https://asph. link/zia86fn9
The 3 Phases of Technology Adoption
From complex mining environments to mega highway restoration projects, many contractors embrace the latest solutions to optimize machine performance. Hear from industry experts on how tech can intelligently shape the world with the data to prove it.
Read more at: https://asph.link/ ze54q1j9
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NEW IntelliPac ™ Moisture System
Astec paves the way for sustainable, innovative asphalt plants. The new IntelliPac Moisture System is a revolutionary solution that integrates seamlessly with Astec control systems. This provides unparalleled, real-time visibility into virgin aggregate moisture content. IntelliPac empowers operators to optimize mix design, minimize energy consumption, and reduce environmental impact. With Astec, you get superior asphalt production – better for the environment, better for your business.
BUILT TO CONNECT
Brandon Noel, Editor
bNoel@iron.markets
234-600-8983
Building Infrastructure Or Ideology?
I’m not sure the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is made up of serious people.
Almost half of the working days the T&I Committee has spent in session for 2025 have been spent sifting through the Biden Administration’s landmark infrastructure bills (the IIJA and the IRA) to find budgetary measures that don’t conform the current Administration’s idealogical taxonomy.
I say it that way, because it remains the best way I can make sense of what motivates what they seem interested in cutting, rescinding, and cancelling. Any program that contains words like: Environment, efficiency, equity, green, low-carbon, emissions, etc., have been dealt heavy blows.
Whether or not the programs, grants, and funding opportunities in question created quality jobs, brought money into hard-hit areas, or resulted in net-positives for cities all over the nation seems irrelevant. None of the arguments have brought forth any serious data to analyze impacts, good or bad. But they all share one irrefutable reality: these were dollars intended for our industry.
The laws that contain these provisions, the SAME provisions they are now rescinding, were passed into law by the SAME Republican controlled House and Republican led committees. They passed these into law. They voted, “Yes,” to these. These are BI-PARTISAN pieces of legislation.
In 2024, there were several hearings held by in regards to the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). These included many days of testimony from both industry experts, as well as city/ state officials from across the country.
The explicit purpose of these hearings was to discuss the solvency of the HTF. It has been operating at a general deficit for a long
time, surviving on transfers. While multiple reasons were given for why the fund can’t keep pace with spending, here are a few big ones:
• The federal fuel tax hasn’t changed since 1993, this was historically how the HTF was primarily funded.
• A greater focus on new construction rather than quality maintenance of existing assets.
• The rise of electric vehicles (EV), which sidestep the fuel-based taxes.
The T&I Committee focused on only a single one of these factors, ignoring the others. Can you guess which was their target? If you guessed EVs, then you win the prize!
Their big solution? An annual registration fee of $250 on EVs and $100 on hybrids. On the surface you can squint your eyes and see a sort of logic here. The average American driving traditional vehicles pays about $150 in fuel taxes a year. The problem is that fuel taxation alone was already falling short by $18 billion a year, as of 2023 (most recent data).
As of 2024, there are approximately 4.1 million registered EVs in the U.S. The new fee would generated about $1.025 billion, and they’re touting this as a big win.
The FHWA projects by 2033 the shortfall in HTF funding could hit $40 billion
Should EVs pay into the system? ABSOLUTELY! But to ignore the other fundamental factors contributing to the problem all while slashing previously earmarked monies for our industry -- doesn’t really scream “America First” to me. It’s just noise.
Published and copyrighted 2025 by IRONMARKETS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.
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NEW PRODUCTS
Hamm Smart Compact Pro
This technology makes a decisive contribution to extending the service life of road surfaces and reduces construction costs, as well as potential additional expenditures by adding a central measured value– the real-time asphalt density. Smart Compact Pro intgrates the new “Realtime Density Scan” sensor into the automated compaction process. This determines the asphalt density in real-time by measuring the dielectric conductivity of the asphalt mix to be compacted, forming the basis for the correlation with the asphalt density or the void content. Both parameters are decisive for self-monitoring or control testing.
Water Wall System
A durable and highly adaptable safety device designed for superior performance that continues to set the standard in temporary barrier solutions. As a MASH-eligible TL-2 Longitudinal Channelizing Device, the Water Wall provides critical protection in work zones by clearly delineating spaces while maintaining optimal visibility for drivers. Its 32-in. tall by 72-in. long low-profile design ensures clear sightlines at intersections, improving traffic awareness and reducing accident risks. Manufactured from durable, low-density polyethylene plastic, the Water Wall is built for longevity, resisting cracks and breakage even in demanding conditions. Its double-wall knuckle design reinforces hinge points, reducing the risk of structural failure.
Trimble Adds Earthworks Support for Wheel Loaders and 3D VCL Viewing
Trimble Earthworks, the company’s 3D grade control platform, is now compatible with medium-sized wheel loaders—machines typically 10 tons or larger. This expansion gives operators the ability to use advanced positioning technology on more types of machines commonly used for site preparation, cleanup, grading, and leveling tasks.
The Earthworks platform runs on Android and uses a dual-GNSS system to deliver real-time positioning and heading of the loader bucket. The system also includes front and rear wheel mapping features to help operators maintain an accurate view of the ground surface as work progresses.
Also, Trimble Connect, its cloud-based collaboration platform, now supports 3D visualization of VCL files. VCL is a proprietary Trimble file format used to share complex design data across Trimble software and hardware, enabling smoother workflows across different construction phases.
Topcon Adds to Road Construction Technology Offerings
Topcon Positioning Systems has announced the expansion of its road construction portfolio, including improvements for road surface scanning, expanded aftermarket solutions for pavers, and a new solution for soil compactors and asphalt rollers. The scanner is part of the longstanding SmoothRide solution, designed to minimize road closures, shorten planning times and optimize evaluations. Topcon also introduces the new MC-Max Paving aftermarket solution to control screed height, width and steering on all major asphalt paver brands. Topcon’s roller management system ensures consistent, high-quality pavement and base layers by leveraging real-time data and automation to optimize the compaction process, reduce rework, and meet project specifications.
Cat Announces Upgrades to P600 and P800 Series Cold Planers
The Cat PM600 and PM800 cold planer series delivers high-production and efficient performance with the milling precision contractors need to stay competitive. As part of Caterpillar’s annual product update program, the PM620, PM622, PM820, PM822, and PM825 models are the latest upgrades- providing multiple operator comfort, efficiency, and equipment management upgrades compared to their previous models Engineered to maximize torque transfer, the PM600 and PM800 series rotor drive system features a heavy-duty dry clutch, automatic belt tensioning system, and two high-tensile belts to drive the rotor. A redesigned anti-slab plow delivers improved operation and reduced wear compared to the previous design. Additionally, design upgrades to the anti-slab-to-conveyor sealing help to contain more material to improve milling efficiency and reduce cleanup.
Cat Remote Services technology is now standard, to help improve machine diagnostics and operating efficiency. Remote Troubleshoot allows for diagnostic testing on the connected machine, enabling a technician to pinpoint issues while the mill is operating, so they arrive with the correct parts and tools the first time.
NEW PRODUCTS
Cyclone eKB Turbine Debris Blower
A zero-emissions, battery-powered turbine debris blower, independently tested and proven to be approximately 50% quieter than similar gas models at the same RPM and distance. With noise levels comparable to a hair dryer or city traffic, the eKB delivers powerful, quieter debris management for residential areas, commercial parks, and municipal recreation.
Available in 7kW or 5kW twin 48 volt lithium battery packs from Vanguard, it maintains Buffalo Turbine’s legendary turbine force air performance while reducing noise pollution.
Topcon CR-H1 Handheld Reality Capture Solution
CR-H1 handheld reality capture solution utilizes a specialized iPhone app with integrated LiDAR that collects images and employs photogrammetry to create detailed, full-color 3D point clouds. The iPhone connects to Topcon’s HiPer CR receiver, enabling the application to collect georeferenced images. Designed for professionals and new users alike, across multiple disciplines, including utilities and subsurface mapping, construction verification and earthworks, civil engineering and site verification, land surveying and forensics, and 3D data capture of built or natural environments.
Volvo CE Showcases Mid-Size Electric Excavator and Wheel Loader
These two machines represent Volvo CE’s expansion into mid-size battery-electric equipment, joining its existing lineup of compact electric models. The move brings electric options to applications that require larger equipment, such as infrastructure development, material handling, and waste management. The EC230 Electric excavator features a 650-volt lithiumion battery with a 450 kWh capacity, offering an estimated runtime of 7–8 hours on a single charge in typical general-purpose applications. Fast-charging support allows a 20% to 80% charge in about one hour using a 250 kW charger. The L120 Electric wheel loader, currently in pilot testing with select customers, is expected to be available for order in late 2025 with initial deliveries in early 2026. This 22-ton loader has a 6-ton lifting capacity and supports a 5 cubic yard rehandling bucket, offering performance comparable to its diesel-powered equivalent. Battery capacity is rated at 282 kWh, with a runtime ranging from 5 to 9 hours depending on the workload. Approx. 2-hour charge time
Sensera Systems Adds AI to SiteCloud
Aimed at making it easier for construction teams to navigate the large volumes of visual data captured on job sites. The update is now live and available for all SiteCloud users.
Construction sites often involve fast-paced, overlapping activities, which can make it difficult for teams to locate key events or verify incidents. The new AI functionality is designed to streamline that process, allowing users to search for specific events—such as safety violations, equipment usage, or deliveries— without manually reviewing hours of footage.
The AI search tool can identify over twenty different visual events like:
• Monitoring equipment on site
• Tracking PPE (personal protective equipment) compliance
• Verifying material deliveries
With this update, project teams can more easily monitor multiple job sites from one interface, and act quickly on data-driven insights to maintain project timelines and safety standards.
Vermeer Launches VermeerOne
A digital platform designed to help equipment owners better manage, monitor, and maintain their Vermeer machines. The new system brings together tools and resources previously spread across separate systems, offering a single place to access everything from machine manuals to maintenance tracking.
The platform replaces both the current portal and system, combining them into one streamlined interface. It supports both connected and nonconnected equipment and offers tools tailored to different machine types and configurations. Regardless of connectivity, VermeerOne gives equipment owners centralized access to key information and support resources, including:
• Operator, repair and parts manuals
• Equipment registration and build specifications
• Warranty policy details
• Fleet management
• Standard planned maintenance intervals
• Dealer contact information
Our UL asphalt tanks have properly sized normal and emergency venting as standard.
All structural attachments are OSHA approved and are af xed to our tanks per code.
All tanks are tested to UL142 Section 42.2.1a 10th Edition.
All weld joints are per UL142 standards.
Your asphalt tanks will be properly labeled and registered with UL142.
By Brandon Noel, Editor
Clearing The DATA FOG
In the arms race for ever more jobsite data, leveraging hardware and software into a single space, while remaining machine agnostic, is a step into the future.
World of Asphalt is where you go to see the latest the industry has to offer. You go expecting to see what the future of the industry might look like. Every now and then, you get a glimpse of what could really be. This year, out of everything that I saw in the sprawling floor of booths, my attention lingered on one technological solution above the various others.
The Trimble MX-60 scanner is a data nerd’s dream, and its capability to gather up to 4 million data points is only the beginning. It can capture 360-degrees of data with its field of view, including road conditions and surrounding contextual features. It is then able to create data-rich point clouds for feature extraction and machine modeling. This helps stakeholders, such as contractors and owners, with maintenance, bidding, and project management every step of the way. But this is also a play for the future.
In the complex world of construction and infrastructure management, data has become the new currency of success. Trimble’s innovative Common Data Platform, which they were showcasing at World of Asphalt 2025, wants to transform how projects are conceived, executed, and documented. Thus, offering a comprehensive solution that addresses long-standing industry challenges.
Not the least of these challenges is how government contracts are requiring more and more data-driven elements. Uncle Sam wants to know exactly what they’re getting for tax payer’s money. That’s something we can all appreciate, but for the contractors, it means being able to show them, in as much detail as possible, what work was completed, and does it reflect the intended design.
They also want access to the jobsite
data for any and all future work. Ten years from now, they might have a different contractor coming behind you to do some work, and they want to be able to show them exactly what was done prior. Over time, this refining and tracking of an infrastructure asset’s history will reveal valuable trends, as well as, save valuable time and resources for each successive project.
“We’re talking about working this construction continuum,” explained Karl Bradshaw, Marketing Director of Mobile Mapping at Trimble, highlighting the platform’s holistic approach to project management.
The platform begins with an unprecedented level of data capture, utilizing advanced technology like the Trimble MX 60 scanner, a sophisticated 360-degree camera and LIDAR package that transforms physical environments into rich digital landscapes.
“We do a lot of rehabilitation in this country, particularly, we’re not building a ton of new roads,” he said. “Because it’s 360 we’re getting everything. We’re
getting the building facades, the curbs, the stop signs, the fire hydrants, and the road condition. Now the owner has an indication of where am I, where’s my worst quality surface? They could lay that over a traffic map, see where the road is the worst, and then decide where to spend [their] maintenance dollars.”
But it’s not just for the client’s benefit, there’s a lot of value in the data for contractors too.
“The contractor might also care about the quality or the condition report of the road, because some DOTs now are actually paying[based on it], the incentive comes on percent improvement of IRI or smoothness. That’s a new benchmark,” Bradshaw continued.
“If it starts at a 150, it’s a pretty bad road, but if you get it to a 130 you get this much. If you get it to a 95, you get this much. So the contractor wants to know, potentially, the quality of the road they’re working with, and it helps affect the bid that they’re going to submit.”
Brandon Noel
BIGGER PLANTS.
ELIMINATING THE FOG OF WAR
Traditional surveying methods often relied on limited data points and manual measurements. This new Common Data Trimble platform revolutionizes this approach by capturing millions of data points in minutes.
“Today, they went out and surveyed with a pole, getting 40 points in two hours,” Patrick DiMeco, Sales Engineer at Trimble noted. “Now, we can capture 4 million points in just five minutes.”
This isn’t just about quantity, but quality. The scanner captures an incredibly detailed digital representation of a project site. Artificial intelligence then analyzes this data, identifying features, measuring road conditions, and providing actionable insights for project stakeholders.
In war times, the difference between the most recent intelligence you possessed about your enemy, troop movements, deployed artillery, or stronghold, and the present reality of their accurate locations, was called the fog of war. It represented the uncertainty between a data measurement in one point and time, essentially, and how it might have drifted or changed.
In construction, this represents the uncertainty between planned conditions and actual site realities. The Trimble platform systematically seeks to eliminate or effectively reduce these uncertainties to near-zero by providing continuous, precise documentation.
“We’re cutting through the fog,” said DiMeco said. By scanning sites at multiple stages- pre-construction, postmilling, and post-paving- contractors can track exactly what changes occurred and why.
SEAMLESS INTEGRATION
One of the platform’s true strengths lies in its ability to integrate multiple project stages. From initial surveying to design, bidding, construction, and final documentation, it creates a seamless workflow that reduces errors and increases efficiency.
“Once we’ve mapped the data, we can develop budgets, estimate costs,
deploy resources, and track production in real-time,” explained Bradshaw.
This means contractors can make more informed decisions, reduce unexpected costs, and improve overall project outcomes. Unlike some closed ecosystems, Trimble emphasizes open integration.
“We’re not forcing everyone into a Trimble-only world,” Dimeco said.
The platform supports open APIs and can integrate with various scanners, machine control platforms, and existing systems. This approach recognizes the diverse technological landscape of modern construction, ensuring that companies can adopt the platform without completely overhauling their existing infrastructure.
The platform’s versatility becomes clear through practical examples. In one scenario, a residential neighborhood project demonstrated how the technology could catch critical discrepancies. By scanning at different stages, contractors could identify issues like curb height variations that might otherwise lead to significant additional costs.
“If the curb is a half-inch higher than planned, that could mean extra asphalt costs across an entire subdivision,” Kevin Garcia, GM of Civil Specialty Construction, said.
The ability to catch and address such issues before they become expensive problems represents significant value for contractors.
FUTURE-PROOFING
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the Trimble platform is its ability to create comprehensive digital twins of infrastructure projects. By maintaining detailed, geo-referenced documentation, organizations can:
• Track project evolution
• Plan future maintenance
• Provide precise historical documentation
• Reduce potential legal disputes
“You will eventually get sued,” one nearby contractor candidly shared, which highlighted the importance of maintaining detailed project documentation.
The Common Data platform automates this for the user, while recognizing potential user hesitation. So, Trimble designed the platform to be user-friendly. The system can be mounted on various vehicles, from site trucks to ATVs, and features an intuitive mobile interface.
“You don’t need to be a qualified surveyor to use this,” DiMeco said, highlighting the platform’s accessibility.
A NEW ERA OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
The Trimble Common Data Platform represents more than just a technological solution- it’s a fundamental reimagining of how construction projects are conceived, executed, and documented. By providing unprecedented visibility, reducing uncertainties, and creating rich, actionable data sets, the platform empowers organizations to work smarter, not just harder.
As infrastructure challenges become more complex, technologies like this will move from being innovative options to essential tools for competitive organizations.
“We’re not just collecting data,” Garcia concluded,”we’re creating a comprehensive ecosystem that drives quality, efficiency, and innovation.”
Brandon Noel
Hi tting the roads with power and precision! Built to take on the toughest jobs, laying down Bitumen emulsions, Asphalt Cement (AC), and asphalt cutback with accuracy and efficiency. No wasted material, just smooth, even coverage every time.
By Brandon Noel, Editor
How Far Has Automation
Cutting-edge automation is revolutionizing road construction, but the truth is it may never be a fully autonomous operation, and that’s a good thing.
When people talk about automation in paving, I’ve noticed that the conversation usually veers toward extremes. Either we’re moments away from handing over the job to machines, or we’re still decades off from anything more than some fancy sensors and buzzers. It’s not surprising that the reality is a bit messier.
The Vögele Super 2000-3i paver is a behemoth of asphalt paving and comes ready for serious technology.
AUTONOMOUS PAVING:
Really Come?
While I was at World of Asphalt 2025 in St. Louis, MO, I had a distinct mission in mind at each booth I visited. I wanted to get an understanding of where exactly is the industry in terms of real automation. Where is the line? How close are we to it? That’s why so much of this issue is dedicated to the topic.
This included a stop at the Wirtgen Group booth to talk to about Vogele’s latest machine control systems. I sat down with Laikram Narsingh, Product Manager at Wirtgen, who’s been walking the line between machine automation and human judgment long enough to see through the hype. What followed was a refreshingly honest conversation about what today’s paving automation can actually do—and just how far we really are from a truly “autonomous” paving future.
A SYMPHONY OF SYSTEMS
According to Narsingh, modern paving automation breaks down into several core functions.
“In terms of automation,” he explained, “we’re talking about controlling the machine in terms of depth, width, and direction.”
These parameters can now be dialed in with remarkable precision using machine control paired with GPS positioning systems—most often provided by third-party vendors like Topcon or Trimble [both featured in this year’s Big Tech Roundtable].
That conversation between systems is key. These days, more and more paving projects today are designed with a 3D model in mind—a digital blueprint that tells machines where the pavement needs to go, how wide it should be, and how
Brandon Noel
deep to lay it. Once a positioning system reads that model, it feeds that information to the paver, like Vögele’s onboard controls, which take over the execution.
So, in a sense, once everything’s set, the machine can handle the dimensional execution—depth, width, and direction—with minimal input. But that’s only one layer of the job. Anyone who’s been in the industry for more than five minutes, understands that isn’t covering everything.
PLAYING NICE, PLAYING TOGETHER
Automation doesn’t stop at just the geometry. Another major variable is the flow of material itself—how much mix is being laid down, and how consistently it’s being fed across the screed.
“One of the five forces that affects grade is the amount of material in front of the screed,” said Narsingh. “So we have automation that delivers the right amount of material to keep that force constant.”
Another system monitors the height of the mat, ensuring that even if the volume and depth are correct, the final ride quality meets spec.
That’s at least two independent systems—geometric control and material flow control—each automated but still reliant on human input to calibrate and verify.
At this point, I asked Narsingh flat out: if all of these systems are working together, and assuming everything is properly calibrated, could a single operator manage a paver this size?
“Theoretically, yes,” he said, then immediately laughed. “But we all know— shit will happen.”
There may be no truer-truth in the asphalt industry. Anyone who’s been on a jobsite knows exactly what he means. Automation may be able to control things under the ideal conditions, but real life is built on anomalies. Unexpected grade shifts, changing weather, inconsistent truck deliveries— none of that is in the model.
“You always want at least one guy up front and one guy in back. Because no
matter how automated things get, somebody’s gotta keep eyes on it,” he said.“At the end of the day, someone needs to verify that the depth coming out matches what the model called for.”
It’s a simple, and ironically, human truth: automation is only as good as the person watching it work.
COMPATIBILITY VS. COMPLEXITY
One of the more interesting parts of our discussion revolved around software compatibility. Vögele doesn’t make GPS systems, but they’ve gone out of their way to make sure their equipment can interface directly with third-party systems without the need for a tangle of extra controllers and sensors.
“If the guy buys a Topcon system,” Narsingh said, “he just tells them he’s using a Vögele, and their system can plug directly into our machine.”
No expensive adapters, no Frankenstein’d custom setups, and no extra software licensing traps that hold contractors hostage to proprietary platforms. This kind of openness is a big deal. Because when you’re out there on a real job—trying to get the mat down while traffic whips past at 70 mph—you don’t want to be troubleshooting your USB dongle.
COMPLEXITY VS COORDINATION
I pressed Narsingh on a question that’s hovered over every tech show and demo I’ve attended this year: If we’ve had 3D control for twenty-five years, and all these systems can already operate semiindependently, why aren’t we further along or closer to fully integrated automation control systems?
He didn’t hesitate.
“You’ve got a paver, you’ve got to heat the screed, you’ve got to get it to the jobsite. Who does that? A human,” he said. “Sure, all the individual parts can be programmed. You could warm up the hydraulics with a pre-set schedule. But to do that, now you’re adding so many sensors, so much complexity,
it’s just not practical.”
He’s not wrong. There’s a difference between what’s technically possible and what’s operationally and financially viable. And as he pointed out, even the most advanced systems still require someone to physically install and maintain them.
Take the road scan system—a highend camera that takes readings every 12 inches of mat laid.
“It’s a very expensive camera,” Narsingh noted. “You could design one to be waterproof so you can just leave it on—but now you’re talking another $100,000 just to eliminate one more manual task.”
The picture of automation coming into view, the future of the industry, is augmented human capability and efficiency, not human replacement.
INTERDEPENDENCE AND THE HUMAN LINK
By the end of our conversation, it became clear that the real challenge isn’t the lack of automation—it’s the challenges of integration.
“All the interdependent systems— which can individually be automated and already are—require the human to be the intermediary,” I summarized while standing next to the giant Super 2000-3i paver. “Because the three or four different automated systems go through the human. Without that person, you’d need to create a piece of hardware and software that does all that communication for you—and we’re not there yet. We may never be there, and me never need to be there, for that matter.”
Narsingh nodded. “Exactly. Interesting, right?”
This turns the automation narrative on its head. The future of paving may be automated, but it will still have boots on the ground, because the job is too dynamic, too complex, and too interconnected to be fully scripted by software.
And maybe that’s not a problem. Maybe that’s the point.
to maintain and troubleshoot, which may be outside a contractor’s traditional expertise.
FAMC: The biggest challenge we encounter isn’t the technology itself, but the willingness to learn and adapt. While there is a slight learning curve, our training and installation process is thorough and designed to set the crew up for success.
Trimble: The biggest challenge is probably identifying who on the team is going to be the technology champion. We’ve gone to great lengths to make our technology as intuitive and user-friendly as possible, but implementing technology still requires a change to how people work. Those who have the greatest results have someone on the team who is committed to making it successful and who can help make sure that crews and leaders are on board.
How do you see automation improving efficiency, quality, and safety in road construction projects?
Trimble: From a safety perspective, automating common and repetitive tasks for the operator allows them to focus on the truly important things, like their surroundings. This improves safety and has the additional benefit of accurately achieving desired results. Those results being achieved in fewer passes with less rework is what contributes to that efficiency but also achieves the quality metric by ensuring that materials are placed in the right location and in the correct amounts.
Automation has also reduced the number of field workers required for certain workflows. For example, mobile mapping units are gaining in popularity and can capture the physical world from behind the wheel of a vehicle, instead of putting surveyors next to live traffic like is historically done.
Topcon: In terms of efficiency, our automated control capabilities reduce the number of personnel required on the paver while simultaneously improving paving precision and consistency. This helps address labor challenges while enhancing productivity.
Quality improvements are particularly significant. Users can achieve compliance with increasingly tight project tolerances through precise control of material placement. The improved surface quality leads directly to increased project profitability and reduced material waste.
Safety benefits are equally important. Our scanning solutions minimize road closures and optimize processes while keeping crews safe. By reducing the time workers spend in active traffic zones and eliminating the need for string lines, we significantly enhance jobsite safety. The combination of these benefits creates a compelling case for automation– doing more with less while achieving better results and keeping workers safer.
FAMC: FAMC is already seeing significant improvements in efficiency, quality, and safety thanks to Leica Machine Control. Contractors are completing more work with tighter tolerances(+-0.01) and moving on to the next job faster. In paving applications, machine control also opens the door to achieving ride bonuses and meeting smoothness specs, all while finishing the job ahead of schedule. Plus, with no more need for wire lines or painting lines, crews benefit from a cleaner, safer jobsite with no tripping hazards from stakes and stringline.
What data and connectivity solutions (e.g., telematics, cloud-based control) are most crucial for effective machine automation?
Trimble: Having a cloud environment is probably the most crucial today because it provides the foundation for syncing files across the entire crew and having everyone working from the same model. Having the ability to push updates to the field and send real-time, as-built data to the office rather than driving back and forth with USB sticks is a game-changer, both in terms of time savings, cost savings and overall project efficiency. As an example, CalTrans recently reported a cost savings of more than $12 million on one bridge replacement project through the use of technology that included using a common data environment for the design model data that was used by both
CalTrans and the general contractor. FAMC: Control and modeling are the most crucial aspects to be effective with Machine Control. Your machine is going to follow a digital model exactly. The benefit with this is that you can tell if there is a bust in the model or control before you even go out to the jobsite. Traditionally, these mistakes would not be caught until grade stakes were read out in the field. This leads to delays if caught and often at a cost to all parties involved.
Topcon: Effective machine automation requires a robust data infrastructure built on several key elements: Precise positioning forms the foundation– our systems utilize GNSS positioning integrated with optical robotic total stations or lasers for 3D millimeter accuracy. Without this level of precision, automation cannot deliver its full potential.
Real-time data collection and analysis systems like 3D scanners enable immediate adjustments based on actual conditions rather than assumptions. This feedback loop is essential for maintaining quality throughout the construction process.
Equally important are data formats and workflows that enable integration between design, execution, and quality control. The most sophisticated automation technology will fall short if data cannot move efficiently between systems and project phases. These elements work together to create an integrated ecosystem where information flows naturally from design through construction and into long-term asset management.
How is automation impacting workforce requirements—are we seeing a shift in skillsets needed for operators and technicians?
Topcon: Our automated control capabilities reduce the number of personnel required for certain tasks, but this shift creates new roles focused on technology management and data analysis.
Equipment operators now need skills beyond traditional operation, including system monitoring, basic troubleshooting, and data interpretation. They’re becoming more like system
I have been in the construction world for almost 30 years. I broke into construction shoveling asphalt at the age of 19. Through the years have worked through the ranks such as laborer, machine operator, foreman, general superintendent, estimator and project manager. I got into Machine Control by working for the first contractor to purchase Leica for our paving spread in the state of California. I now reside in Tennessee and cover the entire US ensuring paving needs are met with Leica Machine Control.
managers than just equipment operators. Simultaneously, we’re seeing growing demand for specialized technicians who understand both construction processes and digital systems. These hybrid roles bridge the gap between traditional construction knowledge and technology expertise.
This evolution presents both challenges and opportunities. Our systems feature intuitive operation to reduce training requirements, but contractors still need to invest in workforce development to fully leverage automation advantages. The most successful organizations are creating clear career paths that embrace these new skill requirements.
FAMC: In our experience, adopting Leica Machine Control technology doesn’t require a completely different skill set, just a willingness to adapt and learn. We recommend that contractors assign someone who understands grade and elevation to manage the instruments. This role isn’t limited to any age
or experience level; it can be a young new hire eager to learn or a seasoned professional with years in the field. Success with Leica automation/Machine Control comes down to mindset, not background.
Trimble: We are seeing a shift in skill sets needed, but Trimble technology is intentionally very intuitive, and with a good dealer partner available to help with training and support, making the transition can be relatively easy. Today’s equipment operators need to be comfortable working with a digital model as opposed to stakes in the ground, and they need to be comfortable interfacing with digital jobsite data via the cloud. They may also be using some augmented reality. But these skills are easy to come by, especially in a world where people are adept at interfacing with screens on a regular basis.
FUTURE INNOVATIONS & INDUSTRY TRENDS
What advancements in machine control and automation do you see on the horizon for road construction?
Trimble: I anticipate that we’ll see more machines capable of automatic steering- and an overall increase in automating individual parts of the workflowwhich will free up operators to focus on more important tasks. I think we’ll also see increased integration with LIDAR and safety systems to capture as-built data while the work is happening, and I expect we’ll see AI contributing more on the modeling side. I also expect to see more in-field capabilities, especially around design, so that field teams can work more efficiently when design changes are needed on the jobsite. I also anticipate that digital site management will continue to become more mainstream, connecting metadata across the entire project and making project teams overall more productive and efficient.
FAMC: At FAMC-Leica, we are always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. A great example is the invention/development of GT1 by our owner, Frank Flores. This groundbreaking
solution gives asphalt pavers the ability to make any asphalt paver 2D-ready with a 3D gateway. Introduced in 2021, GT1 solution also offers optional add-ons to control both steering and end-gates along with elevation, making it a versatile and forward-thinking upgrade for paving operations. Before GT1, steering and end-gate capabilities were only available on certain pavers. More advancements can be expected from the industry.
Topcon: Enhanced integration between different equipment types will create more cohesive workflows–imagine pavers and rollers that automatically coordinate their operations based on material properties and environmental conditions.
Aftermarket solutions will become increasingly versatile, with systems that can be easily adapted to various equipment brands and models. This will make advanced automation more accessible for contractors with mixed fleets. Quality control automation will expand significantly, with real-time verification of material properties and placement accuracy. This will reduce the need for post-construction testing and remediation.
More sophisticated temperature sensors, accelerometers, and other measurement tools providing increasingly detailed information about construction processes. Visualization tools will transform how operators and managers interact with data, presenting complex information in intuitive formats that highlight exceptions and support better decision-making.
How close are we to achieving fully autonomous road construction equipment, and what are the biggest barriers to adoption?
FAMC: I believe we are a little way from this. This comes down to safety for motorists and our public safety. The government will play a large part in this due to public safety
Topcon: While we’re making significant progress toward higher levels of automation, fully autonomous road construction equipment remains a developing frontier. Current systems like our
Jason Hogue, Vice President, FAMC
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automatic control of height, steering, and screed width represent important steps, but complete independence from human oversight is still evolving.
Several substantial barriers exist: Regulatory frameworks and liability considerations remain undefined for fully autonomous construction equipment, creating uncertainty for manufacturers and contractors alike. Site variability presents a significant technical challenge – construction environments change constantly due to weather, ground conditions, material properties, and the presence of other activities.
Coordination between multiple autonomous machines adds another layer of complexity that requires sophisticated communication protocols and decision hierarchies. The high stakes of infrastructure quality and safety create understandable caution about removing human judgment from critical processes.
We expect to see increasing automation of specific functions, with humans providing oversight and handling exceptions, before we reach full autonomy. This progressive approach allows the industry to build confidence while addressing technical and regulatory challenges.
Trimble: At Trimble, we think of the path to full autonomy as a journey rather than a destination. While fully autonomous projects are exciting, project teams are finding real, measurable benefits on jobsites around the world right now through the task and workflow automation tools available today. We expect innovation around task automation to continue to evolve and deliver meaningful productivity
gains all along the journey to full autonomy. When it comes to full autonomy, remote sites lend themselves to being autonomous sooner than other sites, which we’re seeing today in remote mines, for example. But full autonomy on traditional sites requires a lot of site integration and orchestration that will take longer to deliver.
Do you see artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning playing a greater role in machine control?
Trimble: Absolutely. We’re already starting to see AI at use on the design side and helping model builders with routine tasks. For machine control, I think we’ll see AI optimizing for certain conditions, such as smoothness or material yields. AI is good at predicting outcomes, which is useful for many different phases of a road construction project.
FAMC: I believe we are still a way off from fully integrating the AI shift. The government will play a major role in how and when these advancements are adopted, especially given the importance of regulation and oversight in protecting the public. AI is meant to help improve a system where Leica machine control is heavily dependent on survey input which could have human error.
Topcon: AI and machine learning will undoubtedly transform machine control in the coming years, with several applications already emerging: Predictive maintenance represents an immediate opportunity– analyzing patterns in equipment performance data to identify potential failures before they cause costly downtime.
Optimization algorithms for material placement and compaction will increasingly adapt to changing conditions in ways that static programming cannot match, improving quality while reducing waste. Quality analysis using AI can detect potential issues – like segregation or improper density – in real-time, enabling immediate correction rather than postconstruction repairs.
Data interpretation will become
more sophisticated, turning massive amounts of information into actionable insights that support better decisionmaking throughout the construction process. These technologies will help construction teams work smarter, not just harder – leveraging data to improve outcomes while reducing the cognitive load on operators and managers.
How can automation contribute to sustainability and environmental goals in road construction?
FAMC: Environmental impact and sustainability are key benefits of getting projects done faster. By increasing efficiency, we reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions, and help alleviate traffic congestion. This in turn minimizes disruptions to both the public and local wildlife habitats. Faster, more precise work is good for business and good for our environment and safety.
Topcon: Material optimization is perhaps the most direct benefit– our precise control systems ensure the right amount of material is placed, reducing waste and conserving resources. With our RD-MC grade control for differential surfaces, we’re eliminating the need for string lines and reducing material waste while ensuring consistent layer thickness. Quality improvements lead to longer pavement life and reduced maintenance frequency, substantially lowering the lifecycle environmental impact of road infrastructure. Operational efficiency gains include more consistent fuel consumption and lower emissions through optimized equipment operation. Our compaction technology ensures optimal density is achieved with minimal passes, further reducing fuel consumption while improving pavement performance.
As contractors face increasing pressure to meet sustainability targets while maintaining profitability, automation provides a powerful set of tools for addressing both imperatives simultaneously.
Trimble: One of the key areas automation is helping with environmental sustainability is just by helping complete jobs faster and
FAMC
Kevin
In this role, he is responsible for multiple product groups serving the civil specialty construction market, including Paving, Landfill Construction, Drilling and Piling and more. Prior to this position, he served as Paving Product Manager for seven years. He has more than 20 years of experience in the asphalt and concrete paving industry, including six years with Lafarge. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Wyoming.
with less material waste. If we can complete a job with fewer passes and more efficient use of materials, then by nature we reduce emissions and waste and improve environmental impacts. The use of automation also helps teams build roads that last longer and require less maintenance, all of which leads to sustainability gains because heavy equipment is running less and we need fewer materials during the maintenance phase of the asset.
ADOPTION & IMPLEMENTATION
What factors drive a contractor’s decision to invest in automation?
Trimble: All of the above - cost savings, labor shortages and regulatory changes all drive a contractor’s decision to invest in automation. History shows us that construction projects tend to run over budget and over time, and the more you can digitize, the more likely you are to be on time and on budget. In addition to the cost savings mentioned
above, for example, Caltrans also reported saving 258 working days - for a cost savings of almost $2 million - on one recent project. Machine automation is also helping offset the challenges of the ongoing labor shortage by making inexperienced operators good and good operators great. We’re also operating in a complex world where changes and unexpected situations seem to arise frequently. To help offset this uncertainty, we see some contractors investing in technology to improve efficiency and maximize the effectiveness of their existing fleet as much as possible.
FAMC: Labor shortages for sure. Individuals who are wanting to work and show up are far and few in between. This issue makes technology almost a necessity. Contractors often adopt automation when its required by the prime contractor. Some contractors are proactive adopters, using automation to gain a competitive edge, improve efficiency, and position themselves as innovative leaders in the field. Cost savings, overtime. Although there is an upfront investment, Leica can cut labor costs, improve job accuracy and expedite work processes allowing you to do more jobs.
Topcon: Labor challenges rank among the most significant drivers, with contractors struggling to find and retain skilled operators. Automation helps them maximize productivity with their existing workforce.
Project specifications continue to tighten, with many agencies now requiring tolerances that are difficult or impossible to achieve consistently with manual methods. Competition creates market pressure once early adopters demonstrate the advantages of automation in winning bids and improving project outcomes.
Material cost management becomes increasingly critical as prices rise, making the waste reduction benefits of automation more financially significant. Environmental and sustainability requirements are growing more stringent, with automation offering pathways to compliance through reduced material usage and improved quality.
What steps can contractors take to better integrate automation into their projects?
FAMC: Assess the potential return on investment (ROI), including cost savings from reduced labor, fuel, and material waste, as well as increased efficiency and accuracy, equaling profitability for the contractor. Purchasing automation solutions that align with the company’s size, type of projects, existing equipment, and long-term goals. Purchasing the right solution for their company. Adaptation company wide.
Topcon: Start with a clear assessment of current challenges and opportunities – identify specific processes where automation can deliver the greatest value based on your particular pain points. Develop a phased implementation plan rather than attempting wholesale change. Begin with targeted applications that offer clear benefits and build confidence for further expansion. Invest in workforce development alongside technology acquisition. Provide thorough training, create champions within your organization, and emphasize how automation enhances rather than replaces human capabilities. Partner with technology providers who offer comprehensive support throughout the implementation process and beyond. The relationship should extend far beyond the initial purchase. Collect and analyze performance data to quantify benefits and identify improvement opportunities. This information supports both operational refinement and justification for additional investment.
Trimble: Integrating automation has to be part of a well thought out plan just like anything else. Contractors should be clear about what their needs are and what they’re hoping to gain from the technology, and make sure that their fleet and their people are prepared. A good dealer goes a long way here. Our SITECH dealer channel is made up of some of the most experienced construction technology experts in the world. They can help assess the need, make recommendations, and handle
Garcia, Trimble
installation, training and support to make sure a new integration is successful.
Are there common misconceptions about automation in road construction that you would like to clarify?
Topcon: The belief that, “automation eliminates jobs,” misunderstands its actual impact. While roles change, our automated control capabilities reduce personnel needs for specific tasks but create new opportunities in technology management and data analysis.
The notion that, “automation is only for large contractors,” overlooks how we’ve developed scalable solutions like our MC-Max Paving aftermarket system. These technologies can grow with a contractor’s needs, starting with basic functionality and expanding over time. Concerns about complexity often prove unfounded. Our systems feature intuitive operation specifically designed to reduce operator training requirements and facilitate quick adoption.
Focusing exclusively on 3D machine control misses the broader benefits of workflow optimization, quality verification, and data management that complete automation systems provide. The perception that perfect conditions are required for effective automation underestimates the adaptability of modern systems, which are increasingly designed to function reliably in variable field conditions.
Trimble: Yes! There is a common misconception that machine control and automation is just for airport runways, Formula 1 tracks, or other projects with extreme specifications. This is not the case.
Technology helps with material yields, smoothness, productivity, job costs and other factors that are important to everyone. Contractors want more information, more predictability and more efficiency on all jobs. Automation helps them plan ahead and run their businesses better, regardless of the project.
There is also the misconception that technology will solve every issue on a jobsite. While technology will improve quality, safety, productivity and sustainability, it’s not an easy button. Good work practices still need to be followed to achieve the highest levels of benefit from technology.
FAMC: Misconception 1: Is that it is difficult and time consuming - While there is a learning curve, modern automation tools are designed to integrate smoothly with existing workflows. With proper training and vendor support, adoption can be streamlined and often results in time savings over the course of a project. Misconception 2: GPS - Leica includes a wide range of technologies beyond GPS such as robotic total stations. GPS is just one component of a broader suite of tools used in the road construction realm. Misconception 3: You get better numbers out of stringline - While stringline and painting lines has been reliable for decades, Leica can achieve higher precision, greater consistency, and fewer reworks. With proper setup and training, FAMC-Leica often outperforms manual techniques in both accuracy and speed.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you could make one prediction about the role of automation in road construction over the next decade, what would it be?
FAMC: Many project owners, especially in DOT’s from coast to coast and large infrastructure projects, are already requiring digital models and machine control as part of the specifications. Designers are increasingly delivering 3D models as the standard, meaning contractors must have the technology and processes to use them, or risk being unable to bid or perform the work.
As more contractors implement machine control/technology, those who don’t could struggle to stay competitive on cost, quality, and delivery timelines. It’s not just about keeping up; it’s about staying profitable and in business.
Trimble: I can say with certainty that the level of technology adoption will continue to increase over the next decade. The benefits are so great, and the use of machine control and automation puts those who use it at such a distinct advantage that I’m confident we will continue to see increased adoption.
I also think contractors will continue to find new and interesting ways of applying technology on the jobsite, and that companies like Trimble will remain committed to innovation in this spaceincluding the integration of AI- for years to come.
Topcon: In the next decade, we’ll witness a transformation from isolated automation technologies to connected ecosystems that manage the entire roadbuilding process. This evolution will integrate design, construction, quality verification, and asset management into a seamless digital workflow.
As contractors continue to face decreasing margins and tighter specifications while municipalities tackle growing infrastructure challenges, the industry will increasingly adopt innovative approaches to build and maintain roads more efficiently with longer-lasting results.
The most successful contractors won’t simply be those who adopt individual technologies, but those who reimagine their entire approach to road construction around digital workflows and data-driven decision making. This transformation will deliver infrastructure that’s built better, lasts longer, and serves our communities more effectively while reducing environmental impact.
The future of road construction is not just automated– it’s integrated, intelligent, and sustainable. And that future is already taking shape through the technologies and methods we’re developing today
FAMC
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By Allyson Sherrier, Managing Editor
Redefining the Future with Autonomous Machines
John Deere
Meet Maya Sripadam, a Senior Product Manager behind John Deere’s push into construction autonomy with robotics and real-world innovation.
Maya Sripadam didn’t grow up around equipment yards or construction job sites. She grew up in Silicon Valley, surrounded by emerging technology, and pursued her interest in robotics through machine learning at Carnegie Mellon University. Today, she’s at the forefront of one of John Deere’s boldest initiatives— bringing autonomy to the construction and farming industries. As part of that mission, she works for Deere’s technology innovation division, Blue River Technology, where the company is building smart, self-directed machines to solve some of the industry’s most pressing workforce and productivity challenges. And while her current work centers on autonomous articulated dump trucks, it’s worth noting
that John Deere also owns the Wirtgen Group family of machines— including HAMM asphalt rollers, Wirtgen milling machines, Vögele asphalt pavers and Kleemann crushers. The advancements in robotics and automation Sripadam is helping to shape could one day find their way into the very machines that contractors operate every day.
Sripadam serves as a Senior Product Manager for John Deere through its technology innovation division, Blue River Technology. The company first made its name in agriculture, developing robotic solutions like See& Spray, which uses computer vision to distinguish crops from weeds and target only the weeds with herbicide. But the team’s focus didn’t stop there.
FROM FARM FIELDS TO JOB SITES
After contributing to Deere’s fully autonomous tractor— a headlinegrabbing breakthrough in agriculture— Sripadam and her team turned their attention to construction, where the same labor and productivity pressures were just as real, if not more so.
“We realized that the labor shortage is not something that is just unique to the agriculture industry,” Sripadam said.“It might even be more prevalent in construction.”
Her current focus is John Deere’s autonomous articulated dump truck(ADT), the first of its kind for the company’s construction lineup. The ADT is designed for quarry and earthmoving operations, where jobs are often repetitive, physically demanding and run on a tight schedule. Any delay in one truck’s cycle can disrupt the productivity of an entire operation. With autonomy, Sripadam explained, that bottleneck risk is eliminated.
“We’re building a foundational autonomy stack,” she said.“That started in agriculture, and now it’s being applied in construction. That’s the program I work on.”
The ADT was one of four of Deere’s new autonomous machines unveiled at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, marking a strategic shift for the company into high-tech equipment for quarry, commercial landscaping and infrastructure sectors. The timing could not be more urgent. With a global population expected to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050, demand for both food and infrastructure is growing.“If it’s not grown, it likely comes from a quarry,” Sripadam said during the CES presentation. For her, autonomy is not about futuristic ambitions. It’s about solving real-world problems for industries that are already stretched thin.
LEARNING FROM THE GROUND UP
Sripadam’s role is not only about technology development, but also understanding the daily realities of those who operate this equipment.
“Deere equipment covers the equivalent of 1/3 of the surface of the Earth,” she said.“So much of the food, fiber and fuel that we rely on comes from hardworking people using this big equipment. Our part in that picture is helping give those people back time— time that’s becoming a very scarce commodity.”
Sripadam’s path into robotics and automation was shaped by a desire to see machine learning applied in physical, tangible ways.“Software products are awesome, and we rely on them every day,” she said,“but I really wanted to physically see my work manifest.”
That mindset ultimately brought her to robotics, and to Deere. But when
she first entered the field, she knew her technical skills alone wouldn’t be enough. She lacked the domain knowledge that many in construction take for granted— things like jobsite logistics, operator habits or loading cycles. To close that gap, she did what many technologists overlook: she listened.
“You just have to put in the hours,” she said.“Ride shotgun in a tractor. Be on a job site. Be in a quarry. Ask people to describe their day. Ask what they’re thinking about when they make a decision.”
DATA THAT DRIVES DECISIONS
Sripadam emphasized that this learning process shouldn’t begin with a product pitch or a prototype in hand.“Don’t go in with the agenda of trying to solve a problem. Just understand the fundamentals,” she said.
That hands-on approach helped her understand how autonomy might fit into real workflows, and it also clarified how success should be measured. One of Sripadam’s passion topics is analytics and performance metrics. She believes that even the most advanced autonomous system can fall short if it lacks visibility.
“Without robust analytics, you’re almost running blind,” she said.“You’ll put the product in the field and someone will say,‘It’s not working,’ but unless you know why it’s stopping, what it’s stopping for and how many times it’s stopping, you’ll never solve the problem quickly.”
She advocates for building analytics capabilities from the start, not as an afterthought. Understanding what data matters most requires close collaboration with customers, something she and her team prioritize.“It really comes from sitting with customers and understanding how they’re going to measure success,” she said.
Sripadam’s interest in simplification has also shaped her perspective on product development. In robotics, it’s easy to assume that a product needs to do more to be compelling. She’s learned the opposite.
“When you’re solving a fundamental problem that hits a huge macroeconomic trend like labor availability, your product can actually be really simple and yet really delightful,” she said.
CLEARING A PATH INTO ROBOTICS
When asked what she believes holds people back from pursuing careers in STEM or robotics, Sripadam pointed inward rather than outward.“We can be our own biggest self-limiters,” she said.“If you look at the space from a bird’s eye view, there is a ton of opportunity and work that needs to get done.”
What matters, she explained, is having confidence to deal with ambiguity, the commitment to gain the technical skills required and the willingness to invest time.“It doesn’t matter what your background is—you can pivot and move into this field.”
Sripadam encourages others to start small, even if it’s just experimenting with AI tools like ChatGPT to help write an email.“Start using what’s available,” she said.“Start learning how to incorporate it, even on a small scale. Understand why it was created and how it was built.”
This accessibility, she believes, is the key to making robotics feel less like an exclusive club and more like a career path anyone can pursue. With robots and AI becoming a part of everyday life, she sees early exposure as essential.
“Robots are going to become commonplace,” she said.“We’re going to find them in pretty much every aspect of life. Learning how to use them now will help us all be more effective at our jobs in the future.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
Looking ahead, Deere’s autonomy strategy is focused on building shared intelligence across applications. By collecting data across agriculture, construction, and landscaping platforms, each machine in the field can get smarter, more efficient and more useful over time.
“Every single individual application is going to get better from it,” Sripadam said.“That’s core to our strategy and core to building the best possible products for our customers.”
Her perspective is grounded in empathy, data, and a clear understanding of what’s at stake. Autonomy, for her, is not about replacing people. It’s about giving them tools that restore balance in a world demanding more than ever.
“Our customers should have access to the best technology that will help them be more efficient, more productive, and get time back,” she said.
For Maya Sripadam, that’s what innovation looks like: not science fiction, but solutions— built to work, built to learn, and built to serve the people at the heart of it all.
John Deere
By Brandon Noel, Editor
CROSSROADS: Technology And Safety
Survive and thrive with these expert ideas to transforming dangerous work zones.
You don’t need a degree in traffic engineering to know a work zone can go south quickly. One distracted driver. One missed sign. One crew member not paying attention. That’s all it takes. And if you’re in the paving and maintenance business, you’re probably dealing with those risks more days than not.
So we called up Cornelius Morgan, Senior Director of Environmental Health and Safety at AWP Safety, to get some advice about how to build work zones that protect people—every shift, every job.
WHAT’S THE ONE THING YOU WISH MORE CREWS UNDERSTOOD ABOUT WORK ZONE SAFETY?
Morgan:Easy. You have to build your zone like you’re expecting something to go wrong. Because eventually, it will. It could be a driver going 20 miles over the limit, or somebody cutting across cones because they’re in a rush. Whatever it is, your setup has to account for that kind of chaos.
Two important things: defense and visibility. Never assume drivers are paying attention. Always assume they are not. And, put yourself in their shoes. Can they see your signs from far enough away? Are you giving them time to react? Especially if you’re working over a hill, around a bend or near a merge point, your signage and your tapers need
to start way before the hazard. That’s not just smart, it’s survival. With tapers in particular, people often underestimate the length they need, especially at higher speeds. At 65 miles an hour, your taper better be long enough to move traffic gradually, and not all at once. It’s not something you try to do with a few cones, it just doesn’t work, but we see it. Use the full recommended taper length. Use your buffer zone. That’s your cushion if something goes sideways.
WHAT ABOUT INTERSECTION WORK? THAT’S ALSO TRICKY, RIGHT?
Morgan: It is. Especially at signalized intersections. Our policy is clear: if you’re not law enforcement, you don’t flag at a working traffic light. Too many signals and paddles confuse drivers. But if the
Missouri DOT data found that AFADs significantly reduced average approach speeds, increased full stop distance and increased the first brake location where drivers reacted to stop controls. The study also found that 80% of drivers prefer AFADs over human flaggers.
signal’s off or in flash mode, then we treat it like an unsignalized intersection and put one flagger on each approach. And spacing matters. Set up your flaggers back from the stop bar so you’ve got a storage zone essentially. Give drivers a second to process what’s happening.
Depending on the situation, AFADs are a big help too. We’re seeing more customers use Automated Flagger Assistance Devices in spots where traditional flagging puts people too close to traffic. These units can be operated from a safer position that’s off the pavement. The machines handle the stop-and-go signals with bright lights and a gate arm, and they don’t get tired or distracted. Missouri DOT did a study that showed drivers actually prefer AFADs because they’re easier to see and faster to react to. We’ve actually seen a reduction in near misses where they’ve been deployed, and crews tell us they feel more in control using them.
Missouri DOT data found that AFADs significantly reduced average approach speeds, increased full stop distance and increased the first brake location where drivers reacted to stop controls. The study also found that 80% of drivers prefer AFADs over human flaggers.*
WHAT ARE SOME EASY-TOMISS SAFETY STEPS THAT MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE ON THE JOBSITE?
Morgan: Set your arrow boards correctly. They should be on the shoulder
and angled slightly toward traffic—just enough to reduce glare. And they’ve got to be visible well in advance of your taper. If a driver’s squinting to see where to go, you’re already losing.
Same goes for your message boards. Don’t block signs with them. Don’t stick them in the buffer zone. And don’t forget to inspect them before the shift. Lights out? Message doesn’t scroll right? That’s a hazardous situation waiting to happen.
Another big one is to never split your traffic observer’s attention. This is your flagger, or as we call them, your Protector, and they should not pull double duty on the jobsite. That’s your early warning system. If they’re placing cones or assisting elsewhere, then nobody’s watching the road. Their job is to immediately sound the alarm if something’s off. At AWP Safety, we use storm whistles to alert crews because the high pitch cuts through the racket— work zones can be very noisy, and there’s already a lot of shouting that happens, so you need a way to get everyone to take notice. So often, it’s the little things that prevent a bad day at work.
WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO ADVICE BEFORE A SHIFT STARTS?
Morgan: Have the pre-job briefing. Every time. Go over the site layout. Review the day’s weather forecast. Mark the evacuation routes and make sure everyone knows where to go if something were to happen. And don’t gloss
over obstacles like trees, curves or blind hills. If visibility is limited, don’t wing it. Adjust the setup or call a time-out. We train our folks to use“Stop Work” authority. If it’s not safe, it doesn’t happen. Period. Everyone, regardless of job title, has the same authority to halt work if they spot something.
WHAT ABOUT THOSE WHO’VE DONE THIS FOR 20 YEARS, AND THINK THEY’VE SEEN IT ALL?
Morgan:I’d say experience is great, but it can’t turn you blind. The rules evolve. So do the risks. You have to stay sharp. For example, it’s the little things again, right? Carefully walk your setup before you open it. Drive it, if you can. Ask yourself: Would I feel safe sending my family through this zone at 45 miles an hour? If the answer is no, fix it. Don’t wait for someone to get hurt to take it seriously.
The best way to avoid problems is to work with a professional traffic control provider. Because the reality is, behind every cone, sign or barricade, there needs to be a well-thought traffic control plan. It’s never something you put together right before the shift begins. It’s built to fit the site, the speed, the weather and the scope of the work, and it’s adaptable, because things will change.
Let me just say that we’ve had contractors come to us after a close call, saying they didn’t realize just how much was riding on getting that plan right. When you bring in folks who do this every day, who know the regulations inside and out, and who’ve seen the curveballs before—they help you stay ahead of the risk instead of scrambling after it.
THANKS, CORNELIUS. WE APPRECIATE THE DIALOGUE.
Morgan: Absolutely. Ensuring the safety of work crews and roadway users is our top priority because protecting lives is the most critical responsibility we have.
Evaluation of Automated Flagger Assistance Devices, MoDOT, 2018
The Premier Educational Conference & Networking Program for Pavement Business Owners & High-Level Managers
AVAILABLE SESSIONS
DECEMBER
DECEMBER
THURSDAY 04
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
DECEMBER
FRIDAY 05
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
WEDNESDAY 03
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Your Future Leader with Giselle Chapman
Adapting to Customer Behavior Workshop
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Overcoming Challenges in Scaling Up & Building a Resilient Organization
11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
Staying Ahead of Risk with Josh Ferguson
1:15 PM – 2:15 PM Navigating the Digital Transformation & Your Role as a Leader
Evolve or Be Eliminated: How Forward Thinking Businesses Thrive in Uncertainty
10:15 AM – 11:45 AM Controlling the Controllables with Jake Thompson
By Jonathan Kozlowski , Editor, Concrete
The Lean, Mean, Concreteeating [Bacteria] Machine
Researchers from the Chalmers University of Technology found that a biofilm forms and deteriorates the surface of a concrete tunnel that’s surrounded by seawater.
Abiofilm forms on the interior surface of concrete as seawater penetrates the concrete of a road tunnel. A study by researchers at Chalmers University of Technology (located in Sweden) points to the mechanisms behind the degradation and its unexpectedly rapid progression.
Permit me to nerd out with some concrete science news for a moment.
SALTWATER INTRUSION
In the construction of a vehicle tunnel through rock, the roof and walls are sprayed with concrete to create an even surface layer and prevent stones from loosening and falling onto the road. When these are surrounded by seawater,
the phenomenon known as saltwater intrusion occurs. Saltwater intrusion is a process that carries bacteria, which then form biofilms (or colonies) on the surface of the concrete.
That bacteria feed on the materials in the concrete, weakening the surface and causing it to become porous, causing high costs and increasing the risk of damage should pieces of the concrete fall from the tunnel’s roof. Researchers at Chalmers University claim to have discovered new insights about the processes behind this degradation.
The study, Microbial acidification by N, S, Fe and Mn oxidation as a key mechanism for deterioration of subsea tunnel sprayed concrete ” was published in
Nature Scientific Reports. The authors are Sabina Kara, Carolina Suarez, Per Hagelia*, Frank Persson, Oskar Modin, Paula Dalcin Martins, and Wilén. First author Karačić; was a doctoral student at Chalmers but is no longer active at the department.
Frank Persson, Associate Professor of Molecular Biology and Microbial Ecology at Chalmers’ Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, says that the researchers have been taking measurements in the Oslofjord tunnel since 2014. The tunnel runs about 23,970 ft. long and reaches about 440 ft below mean sea level.
Persson states that they’ve observed bacteria eating into the concrete surface
Penetrating seawater carries bacteria that form colonies –biofilm.
up to 1 cm a year. The biofilm forms at the point of saltwater intrusion, however... all concrete in contact with water can get biocorrosion.
NOT UNIQUE TO NORWEGIAN TUNNELS
As reported in the official announcement, sprayed concrete has been used in road tunnels on a larger scale since the 1990s, and since then, researchers have been able to see this fouling of biofilm. Despite this, there are currently very few similar studies of biocorrosion in underwater tunnels in marine environments.
Although the research was conducted in Norway, according to Persson and his colleagues, the phenomenon probably occurs in similar environments around the world. Similar degradation of the concrete is likely to also occur in similar tunnels where freshwater is able to leach into the concrete, according to BrittMarie Wilén, Professor of Environmental and Wastewater Engineering at Chalmers Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering.
“The problem is probably greater in environments where seawater penetrates, partly because seawater is favourable for bacterial growth but also because the salt accelerates corrosion in the reinforcement. Climate change is also making the oceans warmer, and with warmer water, the pH value drops further, which could increase the rate of corrosion,” says Wilén.
New concrete sprayed on walls and ceilings in tunnels has a high pH value, but as the concrete ages, a natural chemical degradation occurs, which causes the pH value of the concrete to drop and makes the environment more hospitable to bacteria.
The bacteria further accelerate the corrosion of the concrete reinforcement and in turn, the degradation of the concrete itself, when they metabolise iron, manganese, sulphur, and nitrogen in the concrete. The researchers have seen that this interacting degradation locally can be relatively fast. Under extreme conditions, the bacteria can penetrate up to 10 cm in five years.
Wilén explains that cast concrete is more compact. It’s strength aids to it’s resistance to degradation - meaning it takes a longer time for the concrete to degrade. On the other hand, sprayed concrete is more porous and more susceptible to degradataion by bacteria.
Wilén adds:
[Sprayed concrete] also often contains steel fibers for increased strength. When the iron is oxidized due to corrosion, it also [can] act as substrate for some bacteria (iron-oxidizing bacteria) that can accelerate the biocorrosion even further. Bridges in water and especially in saline water can get biofilm growth and hence biocorrosion.
Wilén sees the biofilm as a clear warning signal. Keeping an eye on the progression will be helpful: measure the pH of the water that is transported on the concrete, monitor the spread of the biofilm, and locate any loose/damaged concrete, and removing the biofilm would all be useful.
“Another possibility is perhaps to add material that seal the cracks in the rock/concrete,” says Wilén.
Concrete has originally very high pH and bacteria cannot survive on it. Once the pH starts to go down, they can colonize the surface and start forming biofilm under which the pH can go down and then the biocorrosion starts. Once it has started, it can be further accelerated if substrate is available. The Ca starts to be dissolved and the concrete becomes more porous and weak.
SAFETY
The researchers emphasise that road tunnels, despite this biofilm, are generally safe and are monitored by Norwegian authorities. It could be a dangerous situation should the concrete become too thin, allowing pieces of concrete to fall. As far as the researchers know, this has not happened.
Their recommendation based on the studies is to measure the pH value of the concrete continuously, examine the groundwater flow through the rock, and to monitor the spread of the biofilm. The groundwater flow affects the growth of biofilm, especially at lower
flows, where the pH value of the biofilm is lower, which contributes to faster degradation of the concrete than at a higher groundwater flow that neutralises the acid in the biofilm.
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Frank Persson - Chalmers University of Technology
Britt-Marie Wilen - Chalmers University of Technology
Chalmers University of Technology | Catharina Björk Chalmers University of Technology | Anna-Lena Lundqvist
TOP 10 Construction Technology Trends to Watch in 2025
From AI and robotics to green building and wearable tech—driving safety, sustainability, and productivity are key.
Companies are increasingly focused on adopting technologies that can improve working conditions for employees. They’re also seeking to better regulate job sites in alignment with safety standards set by regulatory bodies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration(OSHA). With that in mind, here’s a look at the top construction industry trends to watch in 2025:
1. GENERATIVE AI
Generative AI is streamlining design processes and enabling data-driven decision-making for architects and engineers. It allows for the rapid generation of design iterations, optimizing material usage and supporting sustainable construction practices. Beyond design, Generative AI aids in project planning, risk identification, and workflow improvements. According to Deloitte, AI adoption in construction rose to 37% in 2024, up from 26% in 2023.
2. BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM) ADVANCEMENTS
BIM is revolutionizing how the industry visualizes and manages building projects. It improves collaboration, reduces project errors, and enhances efficiency at every phase. BIM helps simulate real-world conditions before construction begins— identifying potential system clashes and optimizing site layouts. According to the National Institute of Building Sciences, about 74% of U.S. architecture firms were using BIM as of 2021.
3. DRONES & AERIAL IMAGING
Drones have become an advanced tool at the construction site. In 2023, 50% of construction companies reported using drones, which shows a significant rise from previous years. With around 211,640 cases of slips, trips, and falls reported in 2020, drone technology can also make working at heights much safer. It can do this by reducing the need for manual inspections. Learn more about the usefulness of drones in the following use cases:
• Enhanced Site Commissioning
- The Drone Life conducted a detailed thermal analysis during the commissioning of a solar installation. The inspection identified thermal hotspots, revealing that 3.46% of the modules had issues. This approach provided precise data, ensuring optimal performance and long-term viability of the solar installation.
• Tunnel Face Inspections -Toda Construction Co. in Japan developed an AI-powered drone system to inspect tunnel faces. This innovation reduced inspection time from 2 hours to just 17 minutes, offering a safer and faster solution for subterranean infrastructure projects.
4. ROBOTICS& AUTOMATION
Robotics& Automation optimizes the performance at a construction site while reducing risks and errors. Robotics enhances worker safety and makes the site more efficient. As labor shortages continue to be challenging, construction companies are increasingly adopting automated technologies to streamline processes and reduce reliance on manual labor.
Automated bricklaying machines, like SAM100, can lay thousands of bricks per day. They significantly speed up construction while maintaining precision.
Moreover, Large-scale 3D printers can create building structures using concrete, reducing material waste and construction costs. Self-operating bulldozers, excavators, and drones are used for site surveying, progress monitoring, and material handling, improving accuracy and safety. According to Drone Life, around 27% of contractors are receiving real-time data on project progress, and even fewer are using robotics or automation tools.
5. WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY
Wearables and IoT sensors enhance worker safety by monitoring health, detecting hazards, and improving realtime communication. Devices like smart vests and augmented reality(AR) helmets offer biometric tracking, GPS navigation, and hands-free communication—all contributing to risk reduction and productivity gains.
6. IOT SENSORS
Smart helmets like the DAQRI Smart Helmet and Microsoft HoloLens provide augmented reality(AR) overlays. They allow workers to view blueprints, detect hazards, and communicate hands-free. Safety vests and Smart clothing have GPS tracking, biometric monitoring, and impact detection. These wearables help identify worker fatigue, exposure to harmful gases and even fall incidents. Moreover, IoTenabled sensors track temperature, humidity, air quality and noise levels, alerting workers about hazardous conditions in real time.
7. GREEN TECHNOLOGIES
The construction sector accounts for 39% of global CO₂ emissions—but that’s changing. The industry is increasingly adopting green technologies like cross-laminated timber(CLT), self-healing concrete, and aerated concrete. With net-zero buildings gaining traction, sustainable practices now include:
• Smart Energy Systems
• Renewable Energy Integration
• Green Concrete
• Carbon Capture Technology
• Water Conservation Technologies
8. AUGMENTED REALITY(AR)
The industry is embracing Augmented Reality(AR)& Virtual Reality(VR) to improve workers’ safety, streamline project execution and enhance planning. Providing immersive experiences, these technologies help engineers to visualize complex projects before visiting the sites. Moreover, AR and VR allow stakeholders to explore 3D models
of buildings in a virtual space, making it easier to identify potential design flaws and make real-time modifications. It helps reduce rework cost up to 30%, according to the McKinsey Global Institute. According to reports, organizations are experimenting with using this technology to provide OSHA 30-hour construction training in a more intimate and engaging manner.
9. VIRTUAL REALITY(VR)
Wearables that site workers are using are all in tegrated with AR technology that helps provide safety guidelines and reduces errors. Through Virtual Reality, employers are providing realistic hard skills training, thereby guiding them about all safety regulations and possible hazards. According to OpenSpace, the adoption of AR and VR technologies is growing, with 79% of construction professionals recognizing the need for skills in BIM coordination and modelling, which are closely related to AR/VR applications.
10. 3D PRINTING
3D printing enables faster, more costeffective, and sustainable building solutions. It is redefining how structures are designed and built, reducing material waste, lowering labor costs, and accelerating project timelines by up to 70%. Where traditional construction takes months, 3D printing completes homes and structures in a matter of days. The automated robotic arms layer materials including concrete, plastic, or even eco-friendly composites that speed up the process while maintaining structural integrity.
Moreover, 3D printing is also cutting down labour counts that results in 50% cost effectiveness. It makes housing projects more affordable for consumers. The biggest benefit is the use of recycled materials that creates a greater environmental impact.
by
Ben Limer is the senior maintenance manager at Osha30construction Group
TAKING CONSTRUCTION TO THE NEXT LEVEL.
269,000 net square meters of exhibits / 139,000 attendees / 2,000 exhibitors / 150 education sessions MARCH 3-7 / 2026 / LAS VEGAS / NEVADA
No matter what sector of construction you’re in, you’ll leave CONEXPO-CON/AGG with new ideas, new relationships, and new opportunities to grow your business, and your place within the industry. This isn’t just North America’s largest construction trade show, it’s taking construction to the next level.
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