Milwaukee, WI (May 15, 2026) - From the roads we drive every day, to the walking paths and sports courts, to the runways and critical infrastructure that keep communities moving, asphalt is a foundation of our world. On Asphalt Day, May 15, World of Asphalt and AGG1 celebrate the people, innovation and expertise behind one of the nation’s most essential industries.
According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, the asphalt industry provides 350,000 direct jobs in the United States. Data shows that, of the 2.8 million miles of paved roads in the U.S., about 94% are surfaced with asphalt. Approximately $14 trillion worth of goods, about 70% of all freight, are transported annually on the nation's roads, highlighting the essential role asphalt plays in supporting daily life across the country.
"For a century and a half, asphalt has been the literal foundation of America’s transportation infrastructure, providing the essential connectivity that makes our way of life possible,” said NAPA President & CEO Audrey Copeland. “On Asphalt Day, we celebrate this legacy by honoring the innovators of yesterday, today, and tomorrow who have made World of Asphalt a centerpiece of industry progress for more than 20 years. We look forward to continuing this tradition of sustainable progress when we gather in New Orleans next spring to showcase the asphalt paving technologies of the future."
Nearly 100% of these asphalt surfaces are recyclable. Asphalt pavement is the most recycled material in the country, saving resources and taxpayer funds when reused in new pavement surfaces.
"We are proud to celebrate National Asphalt Day, honoring the significance of this construction material and the dedicated workers who create and build our nation’s infrastructure,” said NSSGA President & CEO Michele Stanley. “Aggregates make up 90–95 percent of the material in traditional asphalt mixtures and are considered the backbone of the mix. That’s why our AGG1 show is such a critical hub for learning and innovation across the industry.”
As the leading asphalt trade show and education conference, World of Asphalt and AGG1 play a vital role in advancing the industry and the nation. The event brings together producers, contractors, equipment manufacturers and industry leaders to explore cutting-edge technology, best practices and solutions shaping the future of asphalt production and paving.
“Asphalt is more than a material, it’s an industry built on expertise, collaboration and progress,” said World of Asphalt Show Director Brittany Schmidtke. “World of Asphalt is proud to celebrate Asphalt Day and provide a platform where this community can come together to learn, network and grow.”
World of Asphalt and AGG1 serves as a hub for innovation, spotlighting advancements in sustainability, safety, workforce development and efficiency while providing the education and connections that help professionals succeed long after the show floor closes.
On National Asphalt Day, World of Asphalt and AGG1 encourage industry professionals and the public to recognize the crews, companies and engineers who build and maintain the infrastructure that powers everyday life and to look ahead at the innovations paving the way for the next generation.
Mark Your Calendar: World of Asphalt and AGG1 returns in 2027 when the show travels to New Orleans, March 15-17, 2027. Don’t miss important show updates, sign up for World of Asphalt and AGG1 updates.
About World of Asphalt
Held every year except during CONEXPO-CON/AGG years, World of Asphalt is the leading trade show and conference focused on the asphalt and paving industries, whose most recent edition was recognized by Trade Show Executive as one of the “Fastest 50” growing trade shows. The show features the best education, and latest equipment, products, services and technologies for the asphalt and paving industries. World of Asphalt, co-located with the AGG1 Academy & Expo, will be held March 15-17, 2027 in New Orleans. World of Asphalt is majority owned by NAPA and partially owned by AEM, who produces the show. For more information on World of Asphalt, visit WorldOfAsphalt.com.
About AGG1 Academy & Expo (AGG1)
Held every year except during CONEXPO-CON/AGG years, AGG1 is the aggregates industry’s leading exposition and education resource. AGG1 features in-depth industry-focused educational programming and comprehensive exhibits that showcase the latest technologies and innovations in aggregates-related equipment, products and services. Co-located with World of Asphalt, the next AGG1 will be held March 15-17, 2027 in New Orleans. For more information visit www.agg1.org.
