As winter approaches, the streets and sidewalks can become hazardous. One of the most deceptive threats during this season is black ice—a thin, transparent layer of glaze ice that can turn a seemingly normal road into a treacherous path. At The Gerken Companies, we believe that safety should always come first, so we want to share critical information about black ice and how to stay safe while driving and walking in these slippery conditions.

Black ice typically forms on dark pavement, often during the early morning hours, late evenings, or sudden temperature drops. It occurs when leftover moisture from rain, fog, or melting snow condenses on cold pavement and refreezes, creating a thin, nearly invisible layer. As a result, it can easily be mistaken for wet asphalt, making it crucial for drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant.

The dangers of black ice cannot be overstated. Its near-invisible nature means that even experienced drivers might lose traction and control when their tires hit this hidden hazard, potentially resulting in skids or serious accidents. The risk is particularly pronounced in certain high-risk areas, such as bridges and overpasses, shaded spots on the road, or low-traffic back roads where temperatures can drop swiftly. Remarkably, black ice can form even when the air temperature is slightly above freezing, especially if the pavement itself is colder. That reinforces the need for constant awareness and caution in varying weather conditions. When driving, it’s important to approach each situation with caution, especially in potentially hazardous areas.

If you find yourself approaching a potentially slippery section, gradually ease off the gas by lifting your foot off the accelerator. Avoid any sudden braking or steering, as that can throw your vehicle off balance. If you do need to brake, do so gently—drivers with anti-lock brakes should apply steady pressure, while those without should tap the brakes lightly.

If your vehicle begins to slide, keep calm and steer your front wheels in the direction you want to go to regain control. Always maintain a safe following distance and avoid using cruise control, which can increase the risk of losing traction. Remember, while four-wheel drive can provide better acceleration, it won’t necessarily help with stopping or turning on black ice, so always drive with care.

When walking in these slippery conditions, it’s best to take your time. Slow down and make small, deliberate steps—think of it as adopting a “penguin walk.” Walking with flat feet helps you maintain balance, and keeping your hands out of your pockets can aid in stability. For added traction, consider spreading sand, gravel, or cat litter on walkways. Using ice melt on steps and sidewalks can be an effective strategy to prevent slips.

At The Gerken Companies, safety comes first, especially during icy winter conditions. By staying informed and following these tips, you can protect yourself and others around you from the dangers of black ice. As always, remain cautious and prepared for changing weather conditions to ensure safe travel this winter.

As the holiday season draws near, the air is filled with anticipation and joyful celebrations, from cheerful gatherings to the warmth of gift-giving. It’s a magical time of year, but we know that it can also bring about financial worries if we’re not careful. To help you celebrate this season with less financial stress, here’s a helpful collection of tips for navigating your holiday spending wisely.

Start with a Budget

Before you jump into the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, take a moment to sit down and reflect on your budget for the next few months. Ensure you’ve accounted for your essential expenses and any important debt payments first. Then, you can decide how much you’d like to set aside for holiday festivities. By designating dollars with purpose, you’ll create a sense of security that allows you to enjoy the festivities with a light heart.

When crafting your holiday budget, think broadly. Beyond just gifts, consider food, travel, decorations, charitable contributions, and any additional shipping fees or taxes. Setting a spending cap for each category can keep things balanced and manageable. And remember, flexibility is your friend. If you notice expenses creeping up, don’t hesitate to adjust your plans before making any purchases.

It’s wise to steer clear of using credit cards or buy-now-pay-later schemes during the holidays. To maintain control over your spending, consider using cash or a dedicated debit card tied specifically to your holiday budget. That straightforward approach helps clarify where your money is going. Once you’ve exhausted your holiday budget, it’s a signal to pause your shopping.

Thoughtful Spending

In the spirit of the season, embrace thoughtful gift-giving. Rather than succumbing to societal pressures, consider discussing gift limits with your family or even organizing a “Secret Santa” or name-drawing system. Remember, often the most meaningful gifts come from the heart—like a homemade treat or a special dinner shared—rather than price tags.

While holiday sales can be enticing, it’s important to stay grounded. A discount is only a good deal if it aligns with your budget. Always factor in the total cost, including shipping, to avoid any surprises. Staying within your budget now will pay off when those January bills arrive.

Stay on top of your holiday budget by taking a few minutes each week to review your purchases. If you notice one category has exceeded its limit, consider trimming back in another area before making further expenses. If you’re shopping with family, creating a shared shopping list can be an excellent way to avoid duplicates and keep everyone aligned.

Plan for Next Year

Once the holiday celebrations have wrapped up, take a moment to review how your spending lined up with your budget. This reflection can offer invaluable lessons for the future. To set yourself up for success next holiday season, think about starting a holiday fund in January. Just by saving a little from each paycheck, you’ll be well-equipped to embrace the holidays next year without the weight of financial worries.

As we look forward to this joyous season, let’s cherish the values of connection, gratitude, and celebration. With a splash of planning and a mindful approach, we can fully enjoy the holidays while ensuring our financial well-being. Here’s to a festive, fulfilling, and financially savvy holiday season ahead.

At The Gerken Companies, we’re passionate about paving the way to safer and more durable roads. Our comprehensive quality control (QC) process begins in a controlled laboratory environment and culminates in the field. Here, asphalt lab technicians play a vital role in ensuring the quality and safety of materials used in road construction projects. The position blends analytical skills with hands-on work, offering a clear pathway for both professional growth and personal development. A technician’s contributions directly enhance road quality and longevity, positively impacting both our company and the community.

Core Skills and Training Needed

Embarking on this exciting career path does not require advanced expertise in math or science. However, a strong foundation in mathematics and analytical thinking is beneficial. Individuals who enjoy problem-solving and have a passion for technical work are already on the right track.

At Gerken, new technicians participate in on-the-job training designed to help them build the skills and confidence necessary for success. This training begins with real-world sampling and testing alongside a qualified technician. The process also emphasizes building connections with colleagues and promoting teamwork with external agencies, as effective communication is essential in our industry and across all fields.

In the field of quality control, certain certifications are required to work on FAA, DOT, and other projects. As technicians learn their roles, they have opportunities to pursue additional certifications from organizations such as the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). These certifications ensure compliance with industry standards for state highway projects.

In the dynamic field of construction, nothing is more critical than delivering quality on time, especially for monumental projects such as the replacement of the Maumee River Bridge deck on the Ohio Turnpike. Enter the Gerken Ready Mix Division, the primary concrete supplier whose remarkable teamwork has not only met expectations but surpassed them throughout this significant undertaking.

The Challenge: Massive Continuous Pours

For this project, timing was of the essence. The Ohio Turnpike implemented three separate westbound traffic closures to facilitate the work, each presenting a unique challenge for the general contractor, E.S. Wagner Company, in efficiently placing concrete within a tight timeframe. The coordination involved was nothing short of extraordinary, as pump trucks were strategically positioned in the closed lanes to send concrete soaring over the median barrier. Hite Concrete Pumping Service deployed heavy-duty boom pumps to maintain rapid, continuous concrete distribution across the bridge deck.

As the project progressed, the stakes became even higher. In September, the Ready Mix Division faced the challenge of executing three large pours with impeccable timing and coordination. One of the standout moments was when Gerken supplied an impressive 1,040 cubic yards of concrete in just eleven hours. With rain looming in the forecast, the pressure was intense. However, by collaborating closely with E.S. Wagner, the Ready Mix Division created a seamless strategy that included intricate logistics and essential heavy-highway coordination.

A Testament to Quality Control

Quality control was equally paramount throughout the pours. Every single truckload of concrete underwent rigorous testing for air content and unit weight to meet the Turnpike’s stringent standards. TTL Engineering Services played an invaluable role in overseeing the tests, ensuring precise slump and entrained air content levels were maintained to meet strict DOT specifications and successfully mitigating the impact of unpredictable weather on concrete quality and performance.

Despite the ambitious volume of concrete supplied, the Ready Mix Division achieved the remarkable feat of not having a single truck rejected or requiring retesting due to out-of-tolerance results. That outstanding accomplishment highlights Gerken’s commitment to quality control and effective production strategies. Considering an average pour size of approximately 960 cubic yards, the high production rates, and the complexity of overnight placements, achieving such precision is a testament to the team’s dedication.

Andrew Marihugh, Ready Mix Division Quality Control Manager, couldn’t be more pleased: “I am humbled and incredibly proud to be associated with our team and what we have accomplished together.”

The Gerken Ready Mix Division leveraged advanced central-mix production and a dedicated mixer fleet at its nearby Toledo facility. That strategic advantage ensured a reliable supply of high-performance concrete delivered directly to the project site. With so much at stake, the team showcased its ability to perform under pressure without ever sacrificing quality.

A Model for Success

In construction, successful projects often hinge on the seamless collaboration between various companies and stakeholders. Such was the case in this achievement, a collective effort involving Kuhlman Corporation, M&R Ready Mix, Inc., and Williams Concrete, Inc. While Kuhlman produced the material, the project’s success relied heavily on the contributions from all three Division organizations. Their behind-the-scenes coordination of supply chain logistics and driver scheduling helped minimize disruptions to daytime customers while ensuring that strict work-zone time limits were met.

The joint efforts of these organizations not only highlight the importance of teamwork in construction but also emphasize how effective planning can lead to successful project delivery. By proactively addressing challenges and streamlining processes, the Gerken Ready Mix Division exemplifies how collaboration can elevate the standard of service in the industry. This model can serve as a blueprint for future projects, demonstrating that when different entities work together harmoniously, the results can surpass expectations.

“This is an outstanding example of how our commitment to our core values translates into meaningful results for our customers and our organization,” notes Jason Baden, SVP, Gerken Companies.

As the project moves forward, the Gerken Ready Mix Division’s invaluable contributions instill in stakeholders confidence that, with the right planning, partnership, and execution, even the most challenging endeavors can be successfully realized.

The early days of any job can be daunting as new hires and coworkers work to build connections and understand one another. That was certainly true for Justin Wahl when he joined Gerken Materials, Inc. as an Aggregate Operator at the Clinton Sand & Gravel Pit. Initially, he sensed that one of his new teammates had reservations about him. Rather than letting that discourage him, Justin maintained a positive attitude and approached his new role with unwavering enthusiasm. Before long, that same coworker dubbed him “Skip,” a nickname often associated with a light, energetic, and carefree personality in American culture. The two became good friends, and now everyone at the Pit happily refers to Justin as Skip.

Family Influence and Hard Work

Born in Clinton, Michigan, Justin was raised in a family that epitomized hard work. His grandfather managed a dairy farm well into his 80s, instilling a deep-rooted work ethic in the family. From baling hay as a child to mowing the church lawn at his father’s request, Justin learned from an early age the importance of contributing and striving for success.

His years at Clinton High School were marked by commitment to athletics, particularly track and field. Competing in events such as the 100-meter, 200-meter, and one-mile relay races, he learned discipline and focus—traits that would carry with him throughout his life.

Both of Justin’s parents exemplified a strong work ethic; his father remains active. Tragically, Justin recently lost his mother to ovarian cancer, a battle that left an indelible mark on him. “My mom was a cool person and a great influence in my life,” he shares. “She taught me about faith through her daily prayers.”

Their bond deepened as the years went by. “After I graduated from high school, she and I became really close friends.”

After high school, Justin initially pursued a different path by studying computer technology at Washtenaw Community College. Realizing that wasn’t his true passion, he shifted direction and became a driver for a local lumber company. Over the course of two decades, he mastered operating various trucks, ultimately leading him to join Gerken Materials in 2022.

“I love driving heavy equipment and having a boss who truly appreciates the hard work we do,” Justin shares.

A Life Beyond Work

Outside of his professional life, Justin is a devoted family man. He has been happily married to Jill for 22 years, and together they share a lively home filled with love and laughter, raising their wonderful children: Ginger (18), Abbie (16), and Mateo (6).

Living just two blocks away from his childhood home, Justin cherishes the close-knit community and strong values it fosters. He believes Jill might describe him as a caring person who sometimes worries too much but always puts her and their children first.

In his downtime, Justin enjoys playing video games, riding his four-wheeler, going on walks with Jill, and doing anything outdoors with his family. As an early riser, he starts each day with a workout, setting a positive tone for his day.

Justin believes in the power of giving back to those who serve our country. “If I didn’t have to work, I would probably volunteer for organizations such as Samaritan’s Purse Operation Heal Our Patriots or Compassion International,” he states. His desire to support first responders and uplift children mirrors the same values his parents instilled in him: resilience, kindness, and the importance of hard work.

In raising his children, Justin emphasizes the importance of a can-do attitude and encourages them to embrace challenges rather than take the easy road. “Hard work is always rewarding in the end,” he advises. Moreover, he instills in them the significance of compassion, urging them to love and be kind to others, even in the face of unkindness. “You never know what someone else might be dealing with,” he reminds them.

Justin “Skip” Wahl’s journey from the fields of Clinton to the heavy equipment of Gerken Materials is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of kindness. His story serves as a reminder that through dedication and an unwavering positive attitude, we can overcome challenges and inspire those around us, while creating a ripple effect of positivity and strength.

On Wednesday, September 30, The Gerken Companies had the distinct pleasure of hosting the Henry County Chamber’s “Business Behind the Scenes” event. This gathering provided a unique opportunity for Chamber members to delve into the various divisions of our company and gain a deeper understanding of our operations and contributions to the community.

The day kicked off with our passionate team sharing insights about our key service areas: Ready Mix, Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), Gerken Materials, Quality Control, and Paving. It was a fantastic opportunity to showcase how these divisions work together to ensure top-notch quality and efficiency in our projects.

After the presentations, we guided our guests on a tour of our facilities, including our state-of-the-art lab, workshops, and logistics space. These tours allowed attendees to see first-hand the technology and processes that drive our success and commitment to excellence.

We were also honored to welcome Superintendent Richie Peters and Dr. Katie Jimenez from Liberty Center Local Schools. Their participation highlighted the important connection between education and the workforce. Together, we discussed how we can create pathways for students to explore future career opportunities in our industry. Fostering these connections is vital for developing the next generation of skilled professionals.

Overall, it was a truly rewarding day filled with valuable exchanges and networking with an amazing group of individuals. We are proud to be part of such a supportive community and look forward to continuing to build relationships that help shape the future of our industry.

Thank you to everyone who attended and made the event a success. At The Gerken Companies, we believe in the power of collaboration and look forward to more opportunities to engage with our community.

Asphalt paving plays an essential role in shaping our infrastructure, providing smooth, durable roadways vital to transportation. Among the many considerations in this process, the integrity of joints—particularly the longitudinal joints where two lanes converge—demands special attention. Those seams are often susceptible to various forms of pavement distress, including water penetration, which can accelerate deterioration.

To combat these issues, our industry has made significant technological strides, notably through the introduction of the Void-Reducing Asphalt Membrane (VRAM). This specialized sealant is applied before paving to fill air gaps and block the damaging effects of water at asphalt joints.

Gerken Paving, Inc. began using VRAM in the late 2010s. While implementing VRAM required some initial equipment upgrades and operational adjustments, we embraced the learning process wholeheartedly. Richie Keifer, Operations Manager for Gerken Paving, reflects on this transition: “Like any new process, there was a big learning curve. But we have our technique down, and we’re pretty efficient.”

How VRAM Works

The application of VRAM is both precise and impactful. The process involves spraying the specialized sealant onto the road surface beneath the future lane seam. As the hot asphalt is laid over the VRAM, the material softens and flows upward, effectively filling small air pockets and creating a robust barrier against air and water. This ingenious method prevents water from entering the joints, significantly reducing the risk of cracking and extending their lifespan to match that of the asphalt. With VRAM in place, crews spend less time on crack repairs, resulting in cost savings and smoother traffic flow.

To maximize the effectiveness of VRAM, experienced applicators must carry out the application. At Gerken Paving, our team prides itself on our expertise in this area, serving northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan with skill and precision to ensure long-lasting pavement results.

Our commitment to mastering VRAM application and bolstering our distribution methods has positioned Gerken as a trusted partner throughout the region. Our reliability has not gone unnoticed: in 2025, Gerken Paving completed a significant resurfacing project on the Ohio Turnpike, earning a NAPA Award for Quality in Asphalt Paving. Other significant projects include a VRAM installation in the City of Elyria and an ODOT project in Wood County.

The Gerken Companies’ success with VRAM can be attributed to married team members Nikki and Braun Otterson, whose combined efforts have greatly contributed to the project’s accomplishments. Nikki has played a vital role from the outset, overseeing quality control and technical testing, while Braun has expertly managed the distribution truck. Together, their hard work and dedication have significantly impacted the successful implementation of VRAM at Gerken.

We are also grateful to the dedicated team at Asphalt Materials, Inc. Their unwavering support and commitment have been invaluable to us, especially in providing the high-quality J-Band® brand of VRAM. This innovative material has played a crucial role in enhancing our projects, ensuring durability and efficiency. We truly appreciate their expertise, reliability, and the collaborative relationship we’ve developed over time.

The Value of VRAM

When agencies consider adopting new technologies such as VRAM, they often weigh initial costs against long-term performance. As Keifer acknowledges, “One of the major concerns about adding VRAM is the added expense.” However, the investment pays off. VRAM has been shown to provide a return on initial investment of more than 3:1 by preventing future maintenance and repairs.

“Asphalt used to be pretty simple,” Keifer points out. “Nowadays, we get to teach old dogs new tricks. But VRAM works.”

Conclusion

As the asphalt paving industry continues to evolve, the adoption of innovative technologies such as VRAM highlights our commitment to enhancing durability and efficiency. By effectively preventing water damage and reducing maintenance demands, VRAM not only extends the lifespan of roadways but also ensures safer driving conditions for all.

The future of asphalt paving looks promising, thanks to advancements that keep our infrastructure resilient and reliable. Embracing these changes is essential as The Gerken Companies aims for improved road quality and sustainability in our communities.

As proud members of the construction industry, we have a profound responsibility—not just to create lasting structures but also to nurture a compassionate community for our workers. The end of September’s National Suicide Prevention Month offers a vital opportunity for us to reflect on the challenges we face and to champion our most precious resource: our people.

September also brings Construction Suicide Prevention Week, an annual event that illuminates a pressing issue: our construction workforce faces a significantly higher risk of suicide compared to the general population. Heartbreakingly, construction workers are about four to five times more likely to take their own lives than those in other professions. Behind these numbers are real lives, each affected by mental health struggles that urgently need our attention.

Understanding the Unique Challenges

The construction environment inherently presents several challenges that can impact mental health. Long hours, physical demands, job-site isolation, and occasional unemployment can weigh heavily on even the strongest individuals. Additionally, the traditional mindset of toughness prevalent in our industry often discourages honest conversations about mental health, leaving many workers feeling isolated and unsupported.

In fact, studies indicate that workers in construction are statistically more likely to die by suicide than from a fatal injury on the job. This tragic reality underscores the critical need for proactive interventions and comprehensive support systems to safeguard our workforce.

Breaking the Stigma Together

One of the primary objectives of initiatives like Construction Suicide Prevention Week is to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health on job sites. By promoting open dialogues, we can create an encouraging atmosphere where workers feel secure in seeking help. Let’s shift the perspective together, making it clear that reaching out for support is a testament to strength, not a sign of weakness.

Ben Lindsey’s journey from aspiring musician to successful entrepreneur to trucking salesperson unfolds like a powerful ballad. Raised in a family where hard work thrived, Ben’s life encapsulates the spirit of resilience and reinvention. With a passion for craftsmanship, he transitioned from crafting guitars for legendary artists to becoming an Outside Sales Representative at Kuhlman Corporation. Along the way, Ben’s story demonstrates that sometimes, the most fulfilling chapters come from embracing unexpected changes.

Roots and Upbringing

Ben was born in Toledo and spent his formative years in Oregon, where he attended Clay High School. Nurtured in a loving environment, he is the son of a heavy equipment operator and a devoted stay-at-home mom, and he has one sister named Shelly. That strong familial foundation instilled in Ben a sense of purpose and dedication from an early age.

Reflecting on his upbringing, Ben has vibrant memories of his grandparents, who ran a catering business and whose delightfully thick English accents and engaging stories colored his childhood. “Their conversations were always the highlight of the room,” he recalls. Their influence inspired his strong work ethic and fueled a passion for cooking.

During high school, Ben played guitar in a garage band with friends, nurturing dreams of a vibrant music career. However, reality soon set in as he realized that performing in bars wouldn’t cover his bills. Driven by his love for music, Ben pivoted and founded Madison’s Music Store—a small business specializing in guitar repair, restoration, and custom building. Through hard work and determination, he crafted more than 20,000 guitars, each resonating with his craftsmanship and love. He created instruments for celebrated musicians such as The Black Crowes, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Jack White.

“I got to rub elbows with some famous musicians, many of whom were from Detroit,” Ben reflects.

Embracing Change

After sixteen fulfilling years, the demands of running a business began to overshadow Ben’s passion for guitar-making. Recognizing the need for a change, Ben embraced the idea of exploring new career paths, eager to reignite his passion and creativity. It was during this pivotal period that his aunt, Margaret Waldeck of Kuhlman Corporation, shared exciting news about job openings at her company. Interestingly, both Margaret and Ben’s mother share a common background as Englishwomen who moved to America after marrying Americans. In 2016, Ben joined Kuhlman Corporation, initially working in Yards 1 and 4 before assuming his current role as Outside Sales Representative – Trucking.

Ben reflects optimistically, “As the saying goes, when one great thing ends, another begins.”

Ben’s personal life is as rich and fulfilling as his professional journey. At just 15 years old, while working at the former Ranch Steak and Seafood in Oregon, he crossed paths with Crystal, who, they were both surprised to learn, was a classmate from Clay High School. Their immediate connection blossomed into a lasting relationship. After high school, they lived in an apartment above a music store where Ben worked and honed his guitar-building skills.

Today, Ben and Crystal are proud parents to two amazing daughters: Madison and Gracey. With Crystal’s loving guidance, both daughters flourished through homeschooling. Currently, Ben is pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Technical Studies at BGSU Firelands, a satellite campus of Bowling Green State University, furthering his passion for learning.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Ben nurtures a keen interest in writing, dreaming of one day authoring his own book. As a self-described fidgeter, he enjoys collecting and organizing his nearly 1 million baseball cards, diving into true-crime mysteries, and indulging in video games. But more than anything, he enjoys spending time with his family.

Love and Legacy

“People may be surprised by how few close friends I have,” suspects Ben. “As busy as I am, I prefer to spend my free time with family.”

While he has stepped away from playing and building guitars, Ben continues to own and operate Gracey’s Vintage Finishes, which sells specialty guitar paint to everyone from first-time builders to large-scale manufacturers. Both Madison’s Music Store and Gracey’s Vintage Finishes were named after his daughters, reflecting a deep sense of personal connection and passion. Although his focus has shifted, he still enjoys collecting vintage guitars, which keeps his passion for music alive.

Ultimately, Ben Lindsey’s life reflects a blend of artistic passion and entrepreneurial spirit. After years of thriving in the guitar industry with his own business, he transitioned into a role at Kuhlman Corporation, finding fulfillment in a new field. Ben balances his professional pursuits with a rich family life as a devoted husband and father to two daughters, while also indulging in hobbies such as writing and collecting baseball cards. His journey illustrates that when one chapter closes, another exciting opportunity can unfold, underscoring the importance of resilience and family in navigating life’s changes.