As a catalyst for transportation innovation through research, education, and engagement, the Center builds connections between the state’s transportation agencies and researchers to solve real-world issues. Zanko’s participation as a CTS Scholar has broadened his knowledge of research within the University and the research needs of state and county agencies.
As a geological engineer, Zanko’s career at NRRI has delved into many transportation-related research endeavors. It was his early connections with CTS and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) that led to funding for his first research into Minnesota taconite tailings as a paving material.
“It’s especially valuable to familiarize myself with MnDOT and county road maintenance engineers who have potential research projects that we can respond to,” said Zanko.
Past projects connected with CTS include taconite-based pothole repair and high-friction surface materials, microwave applications, and wooden bridge assessments. A new project just getting underway will experiment with taconite as a friction aggregate to improve the safety of bike path and pavement marking paint.
“The expectation for the Scholars Program group is that we participate in quarterly meetings about CTS activities, research, and funding to keep up with what everyone is doing in the transportation research realm,” Zanko added. “Being part of this is very beneficial for the work we do at NRRI and I hope my contributions are of value.”