Reinforcing RCC Projects with Real-Time Data: Insights from Choice Concrete’s Jason Steenhoek

Wavelogix® recently hosted a Lunch & Learn webinar where CEO Joe Turek sat down with Jason Steenhoek of Choice Concrete LLC in Huxley, Iowa. Their conversation shed light on the growing role of Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) in construction and how real-time strength monitoring is helping contractors deliver stronger, faster, and more cost-effective projects.

From Asphalt to RCC: Jason’s Path into Concrete Innovation

Jason’s career spans a diverse path — from working on his family’s farm to serving in the U.S. Army Reserves, to managing asphalt crews, and eventually moving into concrete operations. His first encounter with RCC came while stabilizing subgrades on asphalt projects. He was struck by its durability, especially in demanding environments like trucking lots.

That “aha moment” led him deeper into RCC. Over time, Jason has managed projects ranging from cattle feedlots in Nebraska to municipal pilot programs in Des Moines. His work continues to demonstrate RCC’s versatility across sectors.

Why RCC Matters

RCC has distinct advantages over traditional materials:

• Speed: Contractors can place three times as much RCC per day compared to traditional concrete.
• Cost: Large projects often see RCC come in at one-third to one-half the cost of wet concrete pours.
• Durability: Projects can often be opened to traffic within one to two days, with early strength gains exceeding 4,000 PSI in some cases.
• Flexibility: Applications range from agriculture and industrial sites to municipal streets, warehouses, and even personal driveways.

For municipalities with tight budgets, RCC offers long-term savings through lower maintenance costs compared to asphalt.

Real-Time Insights with REBEL® Sensors

A major theme of the conversation was how  Wavelogix’s REBEL® Concrete Strength Sensing System is transforming RCC projects. Traditionally, contractors depend on lab-cured cylinders or costly core samples, often waiting days for results. That delay can mean acres of material placed before knowing if strength requirements were met.

With REBEL sensors, Jason’s crews can monitor strength development in real time:

• Risk reduction: Immediate data helps identify issues early, avoiding costly tear-outs.
• Cost savings: Fewer third-party tests are required, and sensors reduce the reliance on expensive coring (often $300 per core with 12-15 per day and cylinder breaks).
• Confidence: Contractors can track performance against mix designs and adjust on the fly.

Jason called the sensors a form of “insurance” for his team — a low-cost safeguard that ensures RCC projects stay on track.

Real-World Applications

Jason highlighted several standout projects:

• Nebraska cattle feedlots: Large-scale RCC placements where portable pug mill plants set up on-site reduce trucking costs and maximize efficiency.
• Municipal pilot streets in Des Moines: Early projects demonstrated RCC’s promise as a durable, cost-effective alternative to asphalt, even when surface finishes varied.
• Warehouses and industrial sites: High-strength RCC provided long-lasting foundations that outperformed expectations under heavy equipment loads.

Looking Ahead

Both Joe and Jason agreed that RCC is still in its early stages of adoption in municipalities, but growing quickly on the agricultural side of the business.. But as more contractors and engineers witness its performance, demand is increasing rapidly. Real-time strength monitoring will be a catalyst in that expansion, giving stakeholders the confidence to embrace RCC for critical infrastructure.

As Jason put it, every project comes with challenges — from equipment breakdowns to unpredictable weather — but RCC, supported by tools like REBEL sensors, offers a smarter path forward.

Key Takeaways for Contractors and Municipalities

1. Start with pilot projects: Cities and contractors can test RCC on small streets, parking lots, or feed pads before scaling up.
2. Leverage technology: Real-time data reduces risk and improves decision-making.
3. Think long-term: RCC’s upfront efficiency and lower maintenance costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious municipalities.

Closing Thoughts

The conversation between Joe Turek and Jason Steenhoek highlighted more than just a construction material — it showcased a shift in how infrastructure projects can be built. By combining RCC with innovations like REBEL sensors, contractors are achieving greater efficiency, durability, and confidence.

For those curious about RCC or real-time sensing, the message is clear: the future of pavement is here, and it’s stronger than ever.

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