Step into the future of the asphalt industry with the Future Leaders in Asphalt (FLA) Program, a first-of-its-kind initiative at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering and across Florida. Founded by Dr. Michael Elwardany and industry leader Tanya Nash, this exclusive 12-month hybrid program blends cutting-edge technical training with real-world experience through virtual classes and in-person site visits. Designed for ambitious professionals ready to level up, FLA delivers deep expertise in materials, mix design, production, and performance, while cultivating the leadership skills needed to drive the industry forward. Launching in Fall 2026, this highly sought-after program will admit a select inaugural cohort through a competitive application process, offering a unique opportunity to join a network of emerging leaders shaping the future of asphalt.
Program Details
Duration: 12-month hybrid program launching Fall 2026
Format: Combination of virtual instruction and in-person site experiences
Audience: Early- to mid-career asphalt professionals seeking advancement
Cohort Model: Select, application-based inaugural class with limited seats
Instruction: Developed and delivered by academic and industry experts
Focus Areas: Materials behavior, mix design strategies, production practices, and field performance
Experiential Learning: Structured site visits to connect concepts with real-world operations
Leadership Development: Targeted training to support career progression and industry impact
Selection Process: Competitive review by a committee of industry, agency, association, and faculty representatives
Have questions? Visit our FAQ link for more information.
Program Overview
Month 1 – Introduction to Asphalt Technology & Industry Ecosystem
Establish foundational knowledge and a shared technical framework
Month 2 – Asphalt Production & Plant Operations
► Site Visit: Original Equipment Manufacturer
Month 3 – Aggregates & RAP Fundamentals
► Site Visit: Aggregate Mine
Month 4 – Binder Technology
► Site Visit: Binder/Emulsion Terminal
Month 5 – Volumetric Mix Design
Month 6 – Balanced Mix Design & Emerging Concepts
► Site Visit: Performance and Mix Design Lab
Month 7 – Additives and Modifiers
► Site Visit: Test Track
Month 8 – Pavement Design & Management
► Site Visit: Tallahassee Central Office
Month 9 – Quality Control & Assurance
Month 10 – Performance, Evaluation & Capstone Launch
Capstone: Assigned and initiated
► Site Visit: Advanced Testing Lab
Month 11 – Emulsions, Maintenance & Rehabilitation
Capstone: Development and milestone review
Month 12 – Sustainability & Emerging Technologies
Capstone: Final presentations
Program Close-Out: Graduation Ceremony
Timeline
- Applications Open: June 1, 2026
- Application Deadline: July 31, 2026
- Selection Process: August 3 – September 4, 2026
- Participant Notification: September 9, 2026
- Program Administration: September 7 – November 30, 2026
- Cohort Announcement: December 15, 2026
- Orientation Meeting: December 16, 2026
