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AASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastMid-Atlantic Quality Assurance Workshop: How to Leverage AASHTO re:source Programs to Monitor and Improve QualityDive into our latest episode as we explore the critical need for laboratories to evolve from mere compliance to a thriving culture of continual improvement. Brian Johnson shares valuable insights from the recent Mid-Atlantic Quality Assurance Workshop, highlighting a new strategic roadmap aimed at enhancing operational practices within laboratories. Throughout the episode, we address the pivotal role that AASHTO plays in guiding laboratories towards adherence to rigorous standards, emphasizing that compliance is just the beginning. We underscore the importance of understanding the root causes of nonconformities and foster a proactive mentality that seeks systemic solutions over temporary f...2025-02-2542 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastPreparing for the 2025 AASHTO re:source Technical ExchangeWe dive into the 2025 AASHTO re:source Technical Exchange with insights from key planners Bob Lutz and Tracy Barnhart. This episode focuses on the event's unique structure, networking opportunities, and targeted sessions for various professional roles. Attendees can expect valuable insights, interactive experiences, and assurance of fresh content during the event on March 17-20, 2025 in Bellevue, WA. Learn more on our website: https://aashtoresource.org/events Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other ep...2025-02-1138 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastUnlocking Section 3.5 of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual, Part 2In the final part of this series, uncover the essential subsections of Section 3.5 of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual. Our exploration reveals the significance of independence of judgment, the importance of transparency in conflict scenarios, and how demonstrated job performance can outweigh formal education in personnel qualifications. Discover the historical context and evolution of temperature guidelines and learn how labs can navigate unexpected challenges, like seasonal shutdowns while maintaining accreditation. The conversation also spotlights the need for clear definitions and the role of standards development organizations in addressing ambiguities. Send us a textHave questions, c...2024-12-3128 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastUnlocking Section 3.5 of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual, Part 1Unlock the secrets of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual with us as we dissect Section 3.5. Navigate the critical responsibilities of accredited laboratories in reporting significant changes within 60 days, per section 3.5.1. We break down what constitutes a 'major change’ and highlight our role and the potential sanctions for non-compliance. Learn more as we go through the first half of Section 3.5, in part one of this two-part series. Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other epi...2024-12-1732 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastStandardizing Concrete Practices: The Story of AASHTO R 119This episode explores the development and significance of the new AASHTO R 119 standard, officially titled “Standard Practice for Grinding the Ends of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens.” Brian shares his firsthand experience in creating this standard, highlighting the collaborative efforts with various state DOTs and the importance of standardizing concrete practices. Listeners will learn why AASHTO R 119 is crucial for those working with ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and how it addresses the limitations of traditional capping methods.The episode also looks at the broader implications of AASHTO R 119, including its potential integration into other key standards like AASHTO T 24...2024-11-1918 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastThe Great Aggregate & Rebar Debate: Who Should Perform Your Assessment?This burning question is at the heart of our latest episode, where we unravel the complexities of choosing the right organization for aggregate and rebar evaluations. We navigate the nuanced scopes of CCRL and AASHTO re:source, addressing why each offers these services and how customer demand has fostered an overlap.Explore the essentials of proficiency sample programs and the critical distinctions in assessment services—CCRL’s focus on specific testing methods versus AASHTO’s broader coverage. Dive into strategic insights for laboratories, empowering you to make informed decisions in the assessment process.Our conversation also u...2024-11-0517 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastUnlocking Effective Lab Monitoring: The Power of AASHTO re:source Specifier FeaturesUnlock the secrets of effective laboratory monitoring with insights from Greg Uherek, Manager of Business Development and Technical Services. Greg sheds light on the specifier feature of the AASHTO re:source website, a game-changer for agencies that require AASHTO Accreditation like DOTs and California's Division of the State Architect. Journey through the evolution of laboratory monitoring from outdated methods to the cutting-edge specifier tools that enhance transparency and accountability. Greg takes us through the transformation, revealing how features like mapping and real-time alerts have made lab monitoring more intuitive and effective. Learn how these specifiers streamline oversight, ensuring labs...2024-10-2240 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastMastering AASHTO R 18: Common PitfallsThis episode reveals laboratories' most common pitfalls with implementing AASHTO R 18, such as calibration record-keeping, training and competency evaluation, and internal audits. Learn how to sidestep these issues by implementing robust quality management practices. Listen in to transform your laboratory practices and get tips to move beyond standard compliance.Read this episode's companion article or watch the video on YouTube.Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found...2024-08-2752 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastRevolutionizing Quality Management: AASHTO re:source's Bold Vision for 2024-2027What if your organization could lead a quality management revolution? Join us as we explore AASHTO re:source's roadmap for 2024 to 2027 with Bob Lutz, the Director of AASHTO re:source. Bob shares the inspiration and process behind this ambitious strategy, which aims to transform the construction materials, testing, and inspection industry. Learn how identifying key stakeholders and understanding their needs laid the foundation for a bold vision and mission that promises to shift the paradigm from compliance to excellence.In our conversation, Bob delves into the collaborative approach that defined AASHTO re:source's mission, vision, and values...2024-08-1335 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastSeason 4 RecapWe share some of the highlights from this past season and explain why we take a break in March and April (spoiler, it's because of the AASHTO re:source Technical Exchange).Related information:AASHTO re:source EventsThe Stream by AASHTO: A Conversation with AASHTO President, Craig ThompsonS4 E05: Paving with Recycled Plastic - Hawaii's Pilot Project - Part 4S4 E07: Geotechnical Investigations at Oklahoma DOTS4 E10: Soft Skills: Dealing with StressS4 E15: Talking Balanced Mix Design with Illinois DOTS4 E16: Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and the CO DOTS4 E22: Soft Skills: Goal Setting - Part 2Send...2024-02-2717 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastUmbrella AccreditationGet a high-level overview of why a laboratory's AASHTO Accreditation is not an "umbrella" accreditation that extends to other locations. Related information:S1 E13: FAQ - Mobile Lab AccreditationS1 E16: Understanding Technician Certification RequirementsS1 E35: FAQ - AASHTO Accreditation Directory S1 E37: FAQ - Multi-Site and Off-Site PersonnelS2 E09: FAQ - Can I back-date my accreditation to when I received my assessment? S2 E20: Terminology - Accreditation, Certification, and Related TermsS2 E37: FAQ - Field Tests and ASTM E329 (Concrete) AASHTO Accreditation Policy on Mobile LaboratoriesAASHTO Accreditation Policy and Guidance on Temporary LaboratoriesTemporary Facility Accreditation Extension Form2024-02-1328 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastMail Call! (February 2024)We go through Brian's inbox to answer some of the questions he's been asked recently. Related information:S3 E17: From the Cutting Room Floor - Consensus Standards S2 E19: FAQ - Refusal of ServiceS1 E39: FAQ - Policy for New Lab Internal Audits and Management ReviewsS1 E31: FAQ - How long does it take to get accredited? AASHTO re:university Webinar Series: A Behind the Scenes Look at Assessment SchedulingAASHTO Accreditation Policy and Guidance on Refusal of ServiceSpecifiersSend us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a gue...2024-02-0638 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastCommon Findings in Aggregate Testing - Part 2How familiar are you with fine and coarse aggregate specific gravity tests? Does your knowledge surpass Kim's? It's not difficult, but find out as we discuss some of the most common nonconformities for AASHTO T 84/ASTM C128 and AASTHO T 85/ASTM C127.Related information: Common Findings In Aggregate TestingS4 E34: Common Findings in Aggregate Testing - Part 1S2 E31: Top Nonconformities for AASHTO T84 and ASTM C128Top Nonconformities AASHTO T84 and ASTM C128S2 E05: FAQ - Which report findings are required to be resolved?How to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report Findings2024-01-3033 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastCommon Findings in Aggregate Testing - Part 1Have Kim's guesses of common nonconformities improved as we move along in this series? Find out how she does as we discuss some of the most common nonconformities during aggregate testing in regards to general equipment, AASHTO T 11/ASTM C117 and AASHTO T 27/ASTM C136.Related information:S4 E32: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments: ASTM C138, C172, C173, C231, C617, C1231S4 E18: FAQ - What is the difference between an observation and a nonconformity?S3 E34: Sieve Requirements and ASTM E11S2 E05: FAQ - Which report findings are required to be resolved?Behind the...2024-01-2327 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastEnforcing the AASHTO Accreditation Policy on Publicizing AccreditationWhile the policy on how to publicize your AASHTO Accreditation hasn't really changed, how it is being enforced recently did. We discuss what this means for AASHTO Accredited laboratories. Related informaiton: AASHTO Accreditation Policy on Publicizing Accreditation S2 E07: FAQ - Publicizing AASHTO Accreditation AASHTO Accreditation DirectoryFalse Claims of AccreditationSend us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org. 2024-01-1633 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastAASHTO re:source Confidentiality Policy ExplainedLearn who, what, where, why, and when we can share specific customer information.Related information:AASHTO re:source Policy on ConfidentialityS2 E28: FAQ - Mail Call!S2 E15: What is the ATG?S1 E35: FAQ - AASHTO Accreditation DirectorySend us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org. 2023-12-1934 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastCommon Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C31, C39, C78, C511Continuing the "Common Findings" series, with no context, Kim guesses the most common nonconformity in concrete assessment reports for ASTM C31, C39, C78, and C511. Then Brian shares a few of the real common findings for those standards and some general tips on how to resolve them.Related information: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C31, C39, C78, C511 companion documentHow to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report FindingsThe Cure for the Cure: A Guide to ASTM C511 and Your Curing FacilitiesS4 E26: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C1077 S4 E18: FAQ...2023-12-1215 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastCommon Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C1077In this "Family Feud" type episode, Kim tries to guess the most common nonconformity in concrete assessment reports for ASTM C1077. Then Brian shares a few of the real common findings for that standard and some general tips on how to resolve them.Related information: Common Findings in Concrete Assessments - ASTM C1077 companion documentHow to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report FindingsAssessment Corrective Action Report FormProficiency Sample Corrective Action Report FormS1 E15: FAQ - How and when do I respond to low ratings?S1 E16: Understanding Technician Certification RequirementsS1 E19: FAQ - D...2023-11-2117 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastThe Value of Internal Audits - Part 1We are joined by AASHTO re:source Quality Manager, Tracy Barnhart to cover some of the basics of conducting an internal audit and how the process is valuable to individuals and organizations. Related InformationFebruary 2023 Webinar - Internal Audits: What's the Point?S3 E7: Internal Audits - Back to BasicsS3 E3: Internal Audit Awareness Month - Who Can Perform Internal Audits?S2 E24: Taken from TechEx: Internal Audits: The Focus on ImprovementS2 E12: Conducting Effective Internal AuditsS1 E39: FAQ - Policy for New Lab Internal Audits and Management ReviewsS1 E28: Management Review Extended Q & A...2023-11-0721 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastFAQ - What is the difference between an observation and a nonconformity?Some people call them gigs, docks, dings, notes, or deficiencies. CCRL calls them footnotes. AASHTO re:source calls them findings and classifies findings into 2 categories: observations and nonconformities. We learn the differences and discuss some best practices on how to resolve them. Related Information: How to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report FindingsAssessment Corrective Action Report FormS1 E25: FAQ - Policy on Resolving Findings During the AssessmentS2 E05: FAQ - Which report findings are required to be resolved?http://aashtoresource.org/contact-ushttp://aashtoresource.org/aap/faqsSend us a textHave questions, co...2023-09-2624 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastFAQ - False Claims of Accreditation and Using the Accreditation LogoWe are deep into the weeds in this episode, discussing false claims of accreditation process and how to use the AASHTO Accreditation logo correctly. Related information: AASHTO Accreditation Policy and Guidance on False Claims of AccreditationAASHTO Accreditation Policy and Guidance on Refusal of ServiceAASHTO Accreditation Policy on Publicizing Accreditationhttps://www.aashtostaging.org/aap/false-claims/S2 E7: FAQ- Publicizing AASHTO AccreditationS3 E27: From the Cutting Room Floor - Down a Rabbit HoleS2 E20: Terminology - Accreditation, Certification, and Related TermsS2 E36: On the Road - NTPEP Part 1S2 E38: On the Road - NTPEP Part 2S2 E40: On...2023-07-1835 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastSeason 3 RecapIn our last episode this season, we take a look back over some of our favorite moments and share a little bit about what to expect in season 4. Will it include more Shakespeare references? Listen to find out! Season 4 starts in May 2023. Email podcast@aashtoresource.org to let us know where you listen from and to suggest a topic for an upcoming episode.Related information:S3 E40: From the Cutting Room Floor - Questions from a DOTS3 E39: Hawaii DOT - Planning for ResilienceS3 E36: Inside AASHTO PublicationsS3 E33: Favorite ThingsS3 E29: Giving ThanksS3 E28: Checking I...2023-02-2822 minAASHTO re:source Q & A Podcast2023 Technical Exchange PreviewWe dig deeper into the 2023 AASHTO re:source Technical Exchange draft agenda, sharing highlights, and attendee favorites. Related information:http://aashtoresource.org/events2023 AASHTO re:source Technical ExchangeWebinar: Internal Audits: What’s the Point?Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org. 2023-01-2427 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastInside AASHTO PublicationsWe sit down with the AASHTO Publications team to talk about what goes into the materials standards.Related information:http://store.transportation.org/ AASHTO re:university Webinar Series: Standards as a Second LanguageStandard Specifications for Transportation Materials and Methods of Sampling and Testing, and AASHTO Provisional Standards, 42nd Edition, 2022Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org. 2023-01-1743 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastAsk the AASHTO Accreditation ProgramWe share audio from the November 2022 Q&A webinar, Ask the AASHTO Accreditation Program. Senior program staff answers accreditation-related questions, explaining more about the accreditation process and internal audit requirements.Related Information:AASHTO re:university Webinar Series: Ask the AASHTO Accreditation ProgramS3 E32: Changes to AASHTO R18S3 E7: Internal Audits - Back to Basicshttp://aashtoresource.org/contact-us Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.or...2023-01-1033 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastSieve Requirements and ASTM E11Gary Pasquarell joins the discussion on sieve requirements for testing labs and ASTM E11.Related Information:Sieves: Making the Grade, Part ISieves: Making the Grade, Part 2AASHTO re:source Policy and Guidance on Go-No-Go Gauges2023 AASHTO re:source Technical ExchangeS2 E14: Fireproofing and Special InspectionSend us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org. 2023-01-0323 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastFavorite Things (Tips & Tricks to Help You in the Lab)We close out 2022 by having staff share some of their favorite tips and tricks they have seen in the lab.Related Information:2023 AASHTO re:source Technical ExchangeAASHTO's Daily Transportation UpdateSend us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org. 2022-12-2012 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastChanges to AASHTO R 18We discuss upcoming, and proposed changes to the AASHTO R 18 standard.Related Information:AASHTO R 18 Ballot for Iron and Steel Equipment Tablehttps://materials.transportation.org/The Birth of a Standard – Part I: Who Are AASHTO and ASTM?The Birth of a Standard – Part II: The Harmonization EffortS1 E22: AASHTO Committee on Materials and Pavements (COMP)S3 E11: Updates to the 42nd Edition of AASHTO Materials StandardsSend us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on t...2022-12-1347 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastGiving ThanksWe celebrate Thanksgiving week (in the US) by having past guests share what they are thankful for in the industry.Related Information:Speaking In Code: Cold-Formed Steel Structural Framing Special Inspections CONUNDRUMS3 E28: Checking In on the IIJA - 1 Year LaterS3 E23: September PSP InsightsS3 E18: Soft Skills: Authentic NetworkingS3 E11: Updates to the 42nd Edition of AASHTO Materials StandardsS2 E39: Steel Inspection and Code ComplianceS2 E32: Infrastructure Bill UpdateS2 E14: Fireproofing and Special InspectionsS1 E40: Winter Weather Effects on Roads and Paving MaterialsS1 E30: Inside PSP with Guest Host, Oak MetcalfeS1 E22: AASHTO...2022-11-2219 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastFrom the Cutting Room Floor – Down a Rabbit HoleIn this From the Cutting Room Floor episode, Brian is joined by Jon McCabe, Quality Analyst, and Russell Dabbs, Senior Laboratory Assessor. This audio is taken from their discussion on ASTM D 4318 and AASHTO T89/T90. During their recording session, Brian, Jon, and Russ went down some rabbit holes, and while their discussions weren't really relevant to the main podcast topic, we thought there was some value in sharing it with you in a separate episode. So in this episode, they discuss using reliable sources for training, the expectations during the assessment, and the importance of ethical lab practices. Pl...2022-11-0817 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastTop Nonconformities for ASTM D4318 and AASHTO T89 and T90Russell Dabbs and Jon McCabe join Brian to discuss the most common nonconformities for liquid limit and plastic limit of soils and how to resolve them.Related information: Soil Classification - The Bigger Picture: http://aashtoresource.org/university/newsletters/newsletters/2016/08/05/soil-classification-the-bigger-pictureThree Musketeers in Soils Testing: Atterberg, Casagrande, and Terzaghi: http://aashtoresource.org/university/newsletters/newsletters/2016/08/04/three-musketeers-in-soils-testingVIDEO: Soil Classification and Compaction Sample Preparation: https://youtu.be/1Xl8O-997skHow to Resolve AASHTO re:source and CCRL Report Findings: http://aashtoresource.org/university/newsletters/newsletters/2017/08/17/how-to-resolve-aashto-re-source-and-ccrl-report-findingsGet to the Root of the Problem: Root Cause Analysis (RCA) Explained: http://aa...2022-11-0149 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastFAQ with Our Admin TeamMeet the AASHTO re:source Admin Team and learn more about our processes in this FAQ episode.Related information:PSP Unboxing Video - https://youtu.be/C3LcyiWfWRIChanges to the Hveem samples - http://aashtoresource.org/news/2022/08/26/changes-to-the-asphalt-mixture-hveem-design-samples http://aashtoresource.org/contact-us Send us a textHave questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email podcast@aashtoresource.org. Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org. 2022-10-2533 minAASHTO re:source Q & A PodcastSeptember PSP InsightsWe take a look at the results of the new Aggregate Gradation & Gravity samples, as well as what's in the works for the Proficiency Sample Program.Related information: AASHTO Accreditation Policy on PSP Participation (http://aashtoresource.org/docs/default-source/publicdocuments/aap-rules-for-psp-participation.pdf)Sample Round Analysis (http://aashtoresource.org/psp/sample-round-analysis)Sample Types and Tests (http://aashtoresource.org/psp/samples-types-and-tests)Datasheets and Instructions (http://aashtoresource.org/psp/datasheets-and-instructions)AASHTO re:source on Twitter (https://twitter.com/aashtoresource/status/1562775257928318976)Extra Proficiency Samples (http://aashtoresource.org/psp/xps)Send us a textHave questions, c...2022-10-1130 min