For the first time in its history, MnLTAP hosted its annual Minnesota Roadway Maintenance Training and Demo Day in the northeastern region of the state. This year’s May 29 event took place on the scenic, tree-lined campus of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College in Cloquet, offering attendees an educational, picturesque setting.
The day began with MnLTAP staff presenting updates on program initiatives, highlighting new training resources and funding opportunities available to local agencies. The morning sessions featured a series of expert-led presentations focused on practical roadway maintenance topics.
Eric Prigge and Kyle Lundberg of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) Office of Maintenance opened the technical sessions with an overview of w-beam guardrails and high-tension cable barrier systems. Their presentation included a review of guardrail types, standard maintenance practices, and line repair procedures.
Carl Abbott of Stepp Manufacturing followed with insights into the asphalt industry. He discussed the role of mastic patching in roadway preservation, particularly for crack filling, bridge deck transitions, and deteriorating pavement structures.
Rounding out the morning, chainsaw safety instructor Alex Bildeaux offered a comprehensive session on chainsaw operation and safety. His talk covered OSHA regulations, equipment features, best practices, and common mishaps—underscoring the critical importance of proper safety protocols and training.
“Everybody, for the most part, has grown up with chainsaws—their grandpa, dad, or uncle had one. With this familiarity, a lot of chainsaw users don't give [the chainsaws] the respect that they should. ‘Just be careful’ or ‘Pay attention or it'll bite you’ are not good chainsaw training. People need a little bit more than that,” said Bildeaux.
In the afternoon, attendees moved outdoors for hands-on demonstrations. Participants observed safe tree-felling techniques, explored MnDOT’s guardrail repair and cable installer trailers, and watched live crack repairs using Stepp Manufacturing’s asphalt trailer. The City of Cloquet’s Public Works Department also showcased its latest maintenance equipment.
Bildeaux’s live chainsaw demonstration included a series of real-life accident stories—some startling, some tragic—that emphasized the consequences of improper chainsaw use.
“The pictures that I show really bring it home on how severe a chainsaw contact can be,” Bildeaux said. “Everyone has heard of the accidents people have had with a chainsaw, but until you actually see what they look like, they are just accidents. Follow the pictures up with stories on a few of the worst accidents that I've been around, and it gets people's attention.”
These cautionary tales served as a powerful reminder of the importance of training and protective gear. For those seeking further education, MnLTAP offers both scheduled workshops and on-site, on-demand chainsaw safety training year-round.
The Minnesota Roadway Maintenance Training and Demo Day continues to serve as a valuable learning and networking opportunity for public works professionals across the state. MnLTAP invites all interested local and state agencies to join next year’s event for more hands-on training, expert guidance, and peer connection. Date and location details will be available in early 2026.