VTRC. My understanding of and appreciation for this symbiotic relationship has increased in recent years. The challenges faced by both are becoming more complex. Incorporating Balanced Mix Design (BMD) is extremely challenging and requires the paving industry and VDOT’s continuing cooperation to succeed. The VDOT’s commitment to this approach and the paving industry’s willingness to assist with our research has helped put VDOT in the forefront nationally in this area. Right now, VTRC has no fewer than 11 BMD research projects underway, and much work remains. The VAA and VDOT/VTRC will also need to work together to adapt to the incorporation of Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) in the future. There are many questions related to their successful incorporation. The asphalt industry and VDOT must work together to navigate the associated learning curve. Finally, I hope that VAA and VDOT will continue to work together to facilitate the implementation of the recommendations resulting from our research. The increased emphasis on implementation over the last decade—in all areas, not just pavements—has changed how we prioritize our research projects. Ultimately, this needs to be reflected by increasing adoption of the recommendations that result from this work. Change carries risks for VDOT and the industry, but not changing also has risks. The VTRC’s pavements research aims to provide VDOT with the information necessary to make data-driven decisions regarding the problems and opportunities they are facing now and will face in the future. This can be done only with industry support and buy-in. VAA→ To wrap up, what is one thing people who do not know you will find interesting? FITCH→ Though I went to school and have worked for many years in Virginia, I began my professional career in Hawaii at a mid-sized A&E firm. My boss was a retired Marine Corps colonel. I mention this only because I learned so much working with this group and from my boss specifically. He was extremely demanding of all those who worked for him, but was also very supportive and a great mentor. All these years later, I still admire what he stood for and appreciate what he taught me. VAA→ Any other thoughts you would like to share with our readers? FITCH→ I am biased, but I would like your members to know that VTRC has some of the country’s best pavement scientists and technicians. Our laboratory facilities are very good, and we are working to make them better. This, coupled with the resources we have access to through the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute and the National Center for Asphalt Technology, makes us one of the top pavement research programs in the nation. We look forward to further collaboration and cooperation with the asphalt industry to ensure our mutual success for the benefit of all Virginians. GETTING TO KNOW G. MICHAEL FITCH I don’t look at any accomplishment I’ve been associated with at VTRC as something I did alone—I’m simply one part of the VTRC team. We as a group have made significant improvements that, as with most successes, stemmed from the challenges or opportunities that have presented themselves along the way. VAASPHALT.ORG 27
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