Michael E. Ayers, Ph.D., has been named the executive director of the Illinois Chapter of the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA). A veteran concrete pavement engineer, Ayers brings to the Illinois Chapter vast and in-depth experience in concrete pavement and cement-based paving solutions.
Ayers experience includes serving as the principal of Global Pavement Solutions Inc., where he has focused on concrete pavement design, construction, rehab and forensic analysis of concrete and cementitious pavement and paving solutions.
He previously served ACPA National in various roles, providing technical service and support with highway pavement technology, as well as education and training. Prior to that, Ayers served in senior technical management roles with ARA (then, ERES Consultants); Oklahoma State University, where he is an associate professor of civil engineering; the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; and an infrastructure engineering firm.
"We are excited to have an engineer of Mike's caliber take on the challenge of leading the Illinois Chapter," says Jerry Voigt, ACPA president and CEO.
Voigt adds that the chapter expects great things as Ayers and Chapter Promotion Director Jimie Wheeler execute a bold and decisive strategy.
"This will begin with a large-scale effort to engage with the Illinois DOT, the Illinois State Toll Highway authority and other agencies throughout Illinois," he says. "This is an important and large first step in the goal to increase the use of concrete and cementitious materials in the state’s highways, roads, airports and other facilities."
Ayers also expressed his enthusiasm about his new role and the opportunities to revitalize and expand the use of concrete pavements and cement-intensive construction, repair and rehabilitation technologies throughout the state.
"Among my top goals are to ensure we are taking a 'boots on the ground' approach with informing and educating the Illinois DOT, toll highway authority, airport owners' representatives and consultants," says Ayers, adding, "Our focus is solely on concrete pavements and cement-based solutions, and as we carry those messages into the marketplace, we also will be working to enhance and expand membership."
Ayers holds a doctorate in civil engineering (transportation/materials), a master's degree in civil engineering (materials specialization), and a bachelors degree in civil engineering (construction management), all from the University of Illinois in Champaign, Ill. He is a resident of Fithian, Ill., and the father of two sons, Craig and Cody.
The Illinois Chapter is one of 19 ACPA-affiliated regional and state paving associations. The chapter is responsible for providing technical support and advocating for the use of concrete pavements and cement-based solutions for highways, airports, streets, and industrial facilities.
