TxDOT Materials and Tests Division (MTD) Representatives Visit CTIS Laboratory for Proficiency Evaluation and Collaboration

On April 21, 2026, CTIS at had the opportunity to welcome representatives from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for a comprehensive laboratory tour and evaluation visit. The CTIS team was pleased to host members of the TxDOT Materials and Tests Division (MTD), including Ernest Longoria, Michael Dawidczik, Victor Vogt, and Jeffrey Perabo. Their presence highlighted the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and state agencies to maintain and improve infrastructure standards across Texas. The visit brought together faculty, staff, and student researchers to showcase the capabilities and ongoing work within the CTIS laboratory.

During the tour, CTIS personnel presented a clear overview of the laboratory’s capabilities, including its equipment, testing procedures, and ongoing research efforts. Visitors moved through several stations where demonstrations showed the level of care and precision involved in materials testing, particularly in asphalt performance. The team also highlighted the use of standardized procedures and quality control practices that help ensure accurate and consistent results.

The team also shared updates on current research projects, many of which involve undergraduate and graduate students. These efforts reflect CTIS’s focus on applied research and hands-on learning, giving students practical experience while contributing to improvements in transportation systems. Overall, the visit showed how CTIS can serve as a valuable partner by providing specialized testing capabilities to support the needs of state highway agencies. It also reflected the center’s ongoing dedication to maintaining high-quality standards, advancing technical expertise, and preparing the next generation of engineers to meet the evolving demands of the industry.