ESPOL’s Faculty of Geosciences Engineering (FICT) strengthened its international cooperation with the Spanish Association of Asphalt Mix Manufacturers (ASEFMA) through a virtual meeting held on August 7, 2026. The purpose of the meeting was to coordinate institutional contacts in Spain for the organization of the Pioneers of Engineering program.
The meeting was attended by Juan José Potti, Ph.D., executive president of ASEFMA, who will serve as a strategic partner to facilitate the FICT’s engagement with universities, companies, technology centers, and associations linked to the pavement and road infrastructure sector in Spain.
As part of the collaboration agenda, the group reviewed institutions and organizations that could be included in the academic visit to Madrid, scheduled for late November through early December 2026.
The Engineering Pioneers program is aimed at outstanding students in the fields of civil engineering, geology, mining, and petroleum engineering. The program seeks to broaden their academic and professional experiences through contact with institutions and organizations related to their fields of study.
During the meeting, opportunities to develop pre-professional internships, academic exchanges, and training activities for FICT students were also discussed.
This international partnership expands FICT’s opportunities to collaborate with academic and industry partners in Spain, enhancing the education of its students and creating the conditions for future initiatives in cooperation, research, and knowledge transfer.
Representatives and strategic partners:
Eng. Paul Carrión, Ph.D.- Dean of the FICT
Eng. Carola Gordillo, MSc.- Promotion Plan Coordinator
Eng. Juan José Potti, Ph.D.- Executive President of the Spanish Association of Asphalt Mix Manufacturers (ASEFMA)
Institutions and organizations involved
Faculty of Geosciences Engineering (FICT) – ESPOL
Spanish Association of Asphalt Mix Manufacturers (ASEFMA)
Young Paving Talent
Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM)
Alfonso X El Sabio University
European Asphalt Pavement Association (EAPA)
Finanzauto – Caterpillar Spain
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
SDG 4: Quality Education. To expand opportunities for academic training and professional experience through international cooperation.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. To promote collaboration on technologies and knowledge related to the development of road infrastructure.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. To strengthen cooperation among academic institutions, associations, and organizations in the private sector in Ecuador and Spain.
