AASHTO Journal - Q&A Podcast: Engaging with State DOT Volunteers

The latest episode of the AASHTO re:source Q&A podcast digs into ways to engage with volunteers as part of fostering a supportive and inclusive committee environment.

[Above image by AASHTO re:source]

AASHTO re:source is a technical service program offered by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials that provides services and tools through three major programs: the Laboratory Assessment Program, the Proficiency Sample Program or PSP, and the AASHTO Accreditation Program.

In this episode Matt Linneman – chief engineer for the North Dakota Department of Transportation and chair of the AASHTO Committee on Materials and Pavements or COMP – joins Casey Soneira, AASHTO’s program manager for engineering, to discuss effective volunteer engagement, from creating “psychological safety” to micro-engagements that encourage wider participation among volunteers without extensive commitments.

This podcast episode also explores the extensive responsibilities of state departments of transportation and how they vary across different states. In North Dakota, for example, the state DOT collaborates closely with local agencies, such as counties, cities, and townships, to maintain local roads. This collaborative effort is essential for ensuring that the entire transportation infrastructure is well-maintained and safe for the public.

Linneman’s role as COMP’s chair involves aligning the committee’s work with AASHTO’s broader strategic goals, while also balancing the volunteer efforts required to maintain and update a 6,000-page annual publication filled with detailed materials standards.

He also shares the catalyst for a strategic roadmap for COMP, which includes aligning with AASHTO’s overall goals and defining core missions, values, and initiatives. This roadmap is essential for guiding the committee’s work and ensuring that it remains focused on its key objectives.

Linneman and Soneira also share thoughts on succession planning, the balance between industry and academic leadership roles, and future committee initiatives, including shifts in meeting formats to boost peer exchanges and the sharing of best practices.