Meet Our Team of Asphalt Experts
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Phillip Blankenship, PE, MSCE, President
With decades of experience in product evaluations, development, trials and commercialization, Phil is well qualified to apply insights and innovative thinking to any asphalt challenge. He holds multiple patents and can assist with specification writing and reviews, product testing plans, pavement investigation, and a wide range of training topics tailored to your specific needs and including professional development hours (PDH).
Phil’s certifications include:
• BS - Civil Engineering, University of Kentucky
• MS - Civil Engineering, University of Kentucky
• MDT - Mix Design Technologist, AI
• Various certifications in asphalt
science and leadership training -
Zack McKay, Laboratory Operations Manager
Zack possesses a strong background in asphalt mixture performance testing and analysis, Zack provides an in-depth understanding of mix designs and behaviors to our clients. He has developed and instructed courses specifically in mixture design and testing and can help your team understand the dynamics of mix design and which solutions to utilize when challenges arise.
Zack’s certifications include:
• MDT - Mix Design Technologist, AI
• SMDT - KYTC Superpave Mix Design
• SPT - KYTC Superpave Plant
Technologist• KQAT - KYTC Qualified Aggregate
Technician -
Callie Shiferawe, MPH, NBTC, Asphalt Technologist
Callie has worked in the asphalt industry for four years and qualifies as a Certified National Binder Technician. She earned her Bachelor’s in Biology and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Health Science and Sustainability. Through her work as a binder technologist, Callie helps our clients innovate new products and incorporate sustainable materials that improve roadways both nationally and internationally.
Callie’s certification:
• NBTC - National Binder Technician
Certification, Asphalt Institute• Asphalt Technology Course, NAPA
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Jaxon Burkhart, Mix Lab Technician
Jaxon is a mix lab technician and the lead technician for BATT's field services. He enjoys working closely with clients to ensure the performance of their asphalt mix designs are of the highest quality. Jaxon earned his Bachelor in Construction Management from Eastern Kentucky University.
Jaxon’s certifications include:
• SPT - KYTC Superpave Plant
Technologist• KQAT - KYTC Qualified Aggregate
Technician• Asphalt Technology Course, NAPA
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Eli Jacobsen, Asphalt Technician
Eli assists the binder lab technologist by verifying that all tests and products used meet BATT’s high standards as well as state specifications.
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Dustin Riley, Lab Technician
Dustin assists in the lab while continuing his studies in medical laboratory science at Eastern Kentucky University. He particularly enjoys working in the aggregate room, sifting rocks.
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Jessica Heiser, Administration
Jessica handles the duties related to Human Resources and Administration. She is responsible for onboarding new employees and updating records, managing payroll, accounts payable and receivable, scheduling meetings, and general upkeep of the office. Jessica helps maintain BATT’s positive work culture in the midst of a growing client base.