Before a national emergency was declared as a result of COVID-19, we attended CONEXPO-CON/AGG in Las Vegas — the largest construction trade show in North America. The event didn’t skip a beat, exhibiting more than 2 million square feet of the latest equipment, industry expertise and networking opportunities — minus the handshakes. We also had the honor of supporting Women of Asphalt, which co-hosted several events at the convention. Here’s a recap of what we saw, learned and experienced:

A Focus on Rejuvenators in the Asphalt Industry

We are huge proponents of rejuvenators, so it was encouraging to see other industry leaders touting their benefits as well. This presentation by Grant Wollenhaupt of Superior Bowen unpacked the many varieties of rejuvenators, how to tell if you have a high-quality rejuvenator and the long-term benefits of incorporating rejuvenators into RAP binder. 

Women of Asphalt get the Recognition they Deserve 

Women of Asphalt joined forces with the National Association of Women in Construction to co-host several events geared toward empowering women in the industry. They were recognized at CONEXPO-CON/AGG’s opening ceremony where, for the first time ever, a statue of a female construction worker was unveiled. As a proud supporter of Women of Asphalt, we captured footage of their sponsored events including a panel of social media influencers in the industry, a discussion about genders on the jobsite with a leading organizer in the steel industry and documentary filmmaker, a forum on widening your workforce led by a panel of female leaders and a networking mixer with a selfie station. We also interviewed other supporters, including Nevada D.O.T. Director, Kristina Swallow. 

Hope in a Time of Uncertainty 

While CONEXPO-CON/AGG closed one day early in response to the national emergency, it did not deter the enthusiasm of the exhibitors, attendees and speakers. Our reaction is a testament to the resilience of our industry. We have overcome natural and economic disasters before and — if the turnout at this year’s CONEXPO-CON/AGG is any indication — we will approach the current public health crisis with the same care and grit. We will persevere.