(Hybrid) MTBMA Safety Committee Meeting

This Month’s Safety Committee Meeting: Connectivity in Highway Work Zones, Why Traffic Control is Different

As work zones grow more complex and traffic volumes increase, the demand for safer and more efficient temporary traffic control solutions has never been greater. This session will explore the evolving role of portable traffic signals and Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) in modern work zone management. Attendees will learn about current specifications, best practices, and use cases for these technologies—including how they reduce risk for flaggers, enhance driver compliance, and improve operational efficiency. We'll also discuss how these tools integrate with broader ITS solutions and support safety objectives in both short- and long-duration projects. Whether you're a contractor, agency official, or engineer, this session will provide practical insights into deploying these systems effectively.

Ross D. Sheckler

President and CT

iCone Products, LLC

 Mr. Sheckler has a BS and MS in Aerospace Engineering from Iowa State University and started his career with stints in aerodynamic and structural design at Boeing Commercial Aircraft.  After leaving Boeing, Mr. Sheckler applied his extensive knowledge from the aerospace sector, providing design and systems consultation to a variety of entities in the heavy truck, aerospace, and energy sectors. 

 In 2005, the State of New York asked Mr. Sheckler’s company, Calmar Research, to create a simpler, more robust traffic monitoring system based upon principles from the truck telematics industry.  The effort resulted in the creation of iCone Products LLC and a series of work zone ITS products based upon simplicity and affordability.

 Mr. Sheckler has advised NASA, the US DOE, the US DOT, the US EPA, the Army, and the US Air Force.  Mr. Sheckler has been a guest lecturer in the Aerospace Department of Syracuse University and served as the President of Iowa State University’s Industry Advisor Council.

 Mr. Sheckler is currently the Co-Chair of the CWZ Standardization Project and has served as the Vice Chair of ATSSA’s Innovation Council and the Work Zone ITS Subcommittee Chair.  Mr. Sheckler has been a member of the WZDX since Ariel Gold first opened the conversation in 2017.