Page 24 - JanFeb2026 Vol 43 No 6

TCAPWA EVENTS AND HIGHLIGHTS
West Branch Lunch & Learn By Director Jonathan Whitfield

The West Tennessee Branch of and approaches to help build longer- world challenges and share their own
TCAPWA closed out the year on a high lasting, more resilient roadways. experiences from communities across
note with its Q4 Lunch & Learn on The event was more than just a learning West Tennessee.
November 13 at the IH Clubhouse in session – attendees enjoyed a tasty lunch, This Q4 Lunch & Learn was a
Lakeland. Jim Beard of Crafco, Inc. shared lively conversation with peers, and the meaningful way for the 20 Public Works
practical, down-to-earth insights about fun of door prizes. One of the highlights professionals present to connect, swap
pavement preservation and maintenance, was a thoughtful and engaging Q&A ideas, and celebrate the hard work that
covering the latest materials, techniques, portion, where folks got to dig into real- keeps our communities running smoothly.

Middle Branch Lunch & Learn By Past Director Casin Swann

The TCAPWA Middle Branch 3rd quarter luncheon was
on Tuesday, October 14 in Nashville at the ABC of Greater
Tennessee Banquet Room. The meeting, attended by 65, kicked
off with a lunch from Edley’s BBQ provided by event sponsor,
Viking Cives.
The Middle Branch had four speakers who focused on the
current practices they use to address winter weather/snow events.
The first speaker was NDOT Deputy Director of Operations,
Phillip Jones. His presentation was titled “NDOT Winter
Operations Preparedness.” This presentation helped to show the
increased commitment NDOT has made to address the winter
weather events they encounter.
Our second speaker was Adam Vance, who serves as the
District 37 Operations Manager for TDOT in Region III. His
presentation showed the work TDOT has done to develop and
build standard operating guidelines for winter weather events.
Our third speaker was Jordan Estep with Viking Cives (www.
cives.com/viking-cives). Jordan’s presentation was titled “Who is
Viking? Our Approach to Snow & Ice.” Jordan did an excellent job
introducing the Viking Cives brand and how Viking has become
a leader in the snow treatment/snow removal industry.
Our fourth and final speaker was Derek Garber with Samsara
(www.get.samsara.com). Derek highlighted how cities, counties,
and DOTs are partnering with Samsara to monitor and address
their road conditions in “real time.”
Door prizes were provided by Pavement Restoration Inc. and
Walker Building Group. Attendees were introduced to the new
2026 Middle Branch Director, William “Rocky” Robinson.
24 TPW January/February 2026