Recently, I joined industry leaders at the California Asphalt Pavement Association (CalAPA) Annual Awards Dinner, held at the historic Jonathan Club in downtown Los Angeles. This evening of camaraderie, celebration, and reflection showcased the achievements of key figures in the asphalt industry while also paying tribute to its storied past.

A Night of Recognition and Reflection

The night’s highlight was the induction of Skip Brown, a longtime paving contractor and dedicated advocate for the asphalt industry, into the CalAPA Hall of Fame. Skip, known for his innovation and leadership, delivered a memorable speech punctuated by his symbolic act of kicking an empty paint can across the stage. “This association,” he declared, “has nothing to do with kicking the can down the road. We’re going to make it better.” His gesture inspired keynote speaker Lori Wilson, Chair of the California Assembly Transportation Committee, who took the can to display in her Sacramento office as a reminder of the commitment to progress.

The evening also honored the legacy of Gerry Graham, inducted posthumously into the Hall of Fame. Gerry’s contributions to the industry were fondly remembered by his family, who shared touching stories of his dedication and passion for asphalt. The event also paid tribute to other legends the industry lost this year, including Bob Roth of World Oil, Bill Darnell with Valero, Gene Guido of Reed & Graham, and UC Berkeley Professor Emeritus Carl Monismith. Each of these individuals left an indelible mark on the industry, with Monismith’s pioneering work on long-life asphalt pavements being particularly celebrated.

A Bittersweet Celebration

While the evening was filled with joy and inspiration, it was also a time for reflection. Remembering those who have shaped the industry’s path underscored the importance of honoring their legacy by continuing to innovate and uphold the highest standards. We’re grateful to CalAPA for hosting such a meaningful event and for the chance to celebrate our shared commitment to excellence in asphalt.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Inspired by CalAPA’s thought leadership around PGTR, Polyco recently hosted a webinar featuring Skip Brown alongside other asphalt legends, including Dr. Peter Sebaaly, Bob McGennis of HF Sinclair, and Lance Allan of Pacific Emulsions (who was in attendance at the Awards Dinner as well). During the webinar, these esteemed professionals shared their insights and expertise about terminal blended tire rubber performance, providing a deeper understanding of the future of sustainable asphalt technology and innovation. It was an incredible opportunity to learn from some of the most respected voices in the field and explore the advancements shaping the industry.

Congratulations again to Skip Brown and all the CalAPA honorees. Thank you to everyone who joined the webinar and contributed to such an engaging and insightful conversation about the future of asphalt technology and innovation. 

Read CalAPA’s report of the special night here.

Access a replay of Polyco’s past webinars and stay up to date on future ones here.