Introducing Apex: A TxDOT Quality Initiative for Asphalt Pavements

By Keaton Hernandez, Ph.D., Adult Learning Director, APEX

APEX is paving the way. With the launch of the Asphalt Pavement EXchange (APEX), Texas has become the first in the nation to implement a program built entirely around professional development, continuous learning, and real-world knowledge sharing in asphalt pavement. APEX isn’t just another training initiative; it’s a bold step forward in asphalt education, comprising a blend of virtual and in-person learning, with resources and courses available online, on demand! For the first time, Texas asphalt professionals across TxDOT and the industry have access to a series of technical documents, videos, graphics, reference guides, and materials designed to empower individuals, strengthen connections, and raise the bar for pavement quality.

“APEX is about marshaling resources, using what we already know, making it better, and developing tools to fill the gaps so we can keep things moving forward,” says Jim Warren, APEX Director.

Under Warren’s leadership, APEX is quickly becoming a powerhouse of expertise and collaboration. The team includes an Adult Learning Director, an Administrative Coordinator, and more roles are being added as the program grows. It also benefits from the experience of Dr. Jon Epps, a long-time leader in asphalt innovation, who serves as a Senior Consultant to the program.

The name, Asphalt Pavement EXchange, says it all. APEX is about more than just learning. It’s about building a culture of collaboration and exchange: exchanging lessons learned, ideas that work, and the kind of insight that only comes from years on the job. At its heart, APEX is about elevating the entire asphalt community in Texas—one conversation, one connection, one career at a time.

Carl Johnson, TxDOT’s Chief Engineer, puts it: “APEX is continuous education so folks can start small, grow through it, and develop a career path in asphalt. It’s good for TxDOT, good for contractors, and good for the traveling public.”

Through APEX, Texas is creating a space where learning is ongoing, support is built in, and the people behind the pavement are the priority. Whether you’re new to the field or have decades under your belt, APEX opens the door to growth, collaboration, and a higher standard for asphalt pavement.

Why APEX Matters Now

APEX serves as a central hub for asphalt pavement knowledge, providing a platform where professionals can learn, connect, and grow. The APEX website will house learning materials, including infographics, quick references, how-to guides, and a myriad of other resources accessible to anyone, at any time. This program brings everyone to the table and offers a clear, consistent path for learning. It’s not just about one phase of the work; APEX addresses the entire process, from project selection through construction and long-term maintenance.

“This effort grew out of conversations among TxDOT and industry leaders who recognized that education about asphalt pavements often wasn’t continuous or easy to access,” says Carl Johnson. “APEX takes that next step, creating a framework that supports engineers and contractors throughout their careers.”

By creating access to high-quality, real-world education, APEX empowers professionals at every level to make better, more informed decisions. That doesn’t just benefit the individual. It also benefits the entire state. When we invest in people, we invest in longer-lasting, durable pavements and safer roads for our fellow Texans.

Built for the Industry, By the Industry

We know that no one knows this work better than the people who do it every day. That’s why APEX is being built with input from the field experts—TxDOT engineers, contractors, and researchers who’ve spent their careers in the field. Their real-world experience is shaping the content, the tools, and the way APEX delivers learning.

Contributors from across the state are helping the APEX team develop materials that address the specific needs of each audience. Whether it’s a frontline technician or a senior engineer, the goal is to deliver the right message in the right format. Learning products will be accessible to all industry professionals, ranging from documents and short videos for on-the-job use to technical documents to provide a deeper dive into specific topics.

This level of collaboration is what sets APEX apart from others. It’s not a one-size-fits-all program. APEX is a living, evolving effort shaped by those with real-world experience and expertise. The knowledge and insight shared by both TxDOT and industry professionals is what gives APEX its strength, and their engagement is essential to its success.

Organized for Impact

In an industry as complex and technical as asphalt pavement, clear communication and consistent information are everything. That’s where APEX comes in.

“APEX is a one-stop education program that streamlines information, promotes consistency, and helps everyone speak the same language—from specifications to materials,” says Ryan Barborak, Director of TxDOT’s Materials and Tests Division.

That shared language is being built through deep collaborative work. APEX is working side by side with academics, TxDOT, and industry professionals to identify the most pressing challenges in asphalt and develop targeted education that addresses them head-on.

At the core of this effort are eight Working Groups, each focused on a vital area for pavement performance: Safety, Essentials, Communication, Pavement Design, Construction and Inspection, Ride Quality, Asphalt Pavement Specialists, and Materials and Mix Selection. Once a topic is identified, smaller teams roll up their sleeves with APEX staff to develop the right product.

Another cornerstone of the program is the Asphalt Pavement Specialists (APS). There is one specialist in every TxDOT District, serving as the go-to person for Design, Materials, Construction, and Maintenance. The specialist in each district is there to serve the district and act as a liaison, advocating for the needs of their district through APEX resources.

“We’re not envisioning the APS to have all the answers,” says Dwayne Milligan, Director of TxDOT’s Construction Division. “But they’ll know where to go to get answers and help maintain consistency statewide.”

Creating Momentum

The APEX team officially hit the ground running in May 2025, and their focus has been on laying a strong foundation for lasting impact from day one. From setting up internal processes and project tracking systems to fostering a culture of innovation, the staff works behind the scenes to turn vision into action. With diverse educational and professional backgrounds, each APEX staff member brings fresh energy, creativity, and insight to the program—helping shape a learning experience that truly reflects the needs of Texas asphalt professionals.

One of the first major efforts underway is the Essentials Workshop, developed by the Essentials Working Group. This workshop will engage participants through the entire lifecycle of an asphalt road, from design through maintenance, offering a well-rounded and practical introduction to APEX. The pilot is scheduled for November 2025 in Buda, with regional sessions planned for early 2026.

In the months ahead, APEX will continue to expand its staff and collaborate with Working Groups across the state. By working closely with academic experts and field professionals, the team is committed to developing education that’s accessible, relevant, and grounded in standard industry practices.

How Can You Get Involved

The success of APEX depends on the people it’s built for—YOU! Your insight, involvement, and feedback are what will shape this program.

“If you’ve got ideas, send them,” says Jim Warren. “We’ve already received hundreds of suggestions—and we’re just getting started.”

APEX is growing fast, and there’s never been a better time to get involved. Visit www.apextx.org to join our mailing list and stay up-to-date on what APEX is building.