
Share a little bit about yourself. In what field do you currently work in the asphalt industry, and how would you describe what you do on a day-to-day basis?
I am a wife, a mom, and a Pippa (grandmom), and I have been part of the asphalt industry for nearly two decades. I’m currently serving in a dual role as Vice President of Mix Technology for Aztec Asphalt Technology and Vice President of the Southeastern Region for Total Asphalt Rejuvenation. In these roles, I focus on innovation and sustainability, particularly using Veritas Green, a patented asphalt surface rejuvenator.
My work involves collaborating with industry partners to optimize the use of rejuvenators, developing application strategies, and building relationships with municipalities, DOTs, and private contractors to ensure that our solutions meet their specific roadway preservation needs. I also spend time educating others about the benefits of incorporating rejuvenation technology into their pavement preservation strategies through presentations and one-on-one consultations.
What do you personally see as the part you play in the industry?
I see my role as a connector – bridging the gap between innovation and real-world application. I’m passionate about promoting sustainable practices and helping others understand how technologies like Veritas Green can transform pavement preservation. By sharing knowledge, building relationships, and encouraging collaboration, I aim to empower others in industry to embrace solutions that extend pavement life, improve recyclability, and reduce environmental impact.
I also view my work as an opportunity to inspire a broader vision of what the asphalt industry can achieve. By highlighting the importance of innovation and showcasing the leadership of women in the field, I hope to encourage a more inclusive, forward-thinking industry that is prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
How did you get started in the asphalt industry in the first place?
My start in the asphalt industry came not from what I knew, but from who I knew. In 2006, I was a single mother looking for a stable job when I was introduced to East Alabama Paving through a family connection. I joined the company with no prior knowledge of asphalt or construction, but I was determined to succeed. What started as a job quickly turned into something much more – I made the decision to treat it as a career, not just a paycheck.
That mindset changed everything. I immerse myself in learning every aspect of asphalt production, testing, and mix design. Over time, I realized that this industry offered endless opportunities for growth and innovation, and I wanted to be a part of it. That decision to commit fully to my work laid the foundation for the career I have today, and it’s a choice I am grateful for every day.
Early on in your career, did you face any unique challenges or roadblocks that you had to overcome in order to keep progressing?
Early in my career, one of the biggest challenges I faced was proving myself in a predominantly male industry. For women to succeed in this field, it’s essential to demonstrate early on that we can pull our own weight and win our own battles. I had to show my coworkers that I was just as capable, dedicated, and resilient as they were. Once I did that, everything changed.
What began as a challenge turned into one of my greatest blessings. I earned the respect of my coworkers, and in return, I gained some of the best friends and champions I could have ever asked for. We built mutual respect and trust, and I knew they were in my corner cheering me on.
Another key to overcoming challenges was finding a mentor. While it’s wonderful to connect with another woman as a mentor, it doesn’t have to be. Some of the most influential women I know in the industry were mentored by men who believed in their potential. For me, mentorship has been invaluable, and it’s something I encourage everyone to seek out as they navigate their careers.
How would you describe the nature of your experience over the years?
The challenges women face in the construction field are no secret, and my experience has been no exception. There were moments when I had to work harder and push further to show that I belonged and could contribute just as much as anyone else. Many of my coworkers, both men and women, have become my biggest advocates and lifelong friends.
What stands out most in my journey is the balance of challenges and opportunities. Yes, I’ve faced hurdles, but I’ve also been blessed to work in a field that values results and innovation. The asphalt industry, in particular, is evolving, and more doors are opening for women to step into leadership and make a lasting impact. I’m proud to be part of that progress, and I hope my story encourages other women to pursue careers in construction.
What about your perspective as a woman do you believe has helped you or given you insights over the years?
Women often have a natural ability to focus on details while also seeing the bigger picture, which is crucial in an industry where precision and long-term planning are key. I’ve found that this perspective allows me to approach challenges with creativity and balance – whether it’s problem-solving in the lab or strategizing for a large-scale project.
Another aspect of my perspective as a woman is the emphasis on building relationships. I’ve always valued collaboration and clear communication, which has helped me connect with coworkers, clients, and partners on a deeper level. Those connections have been the foundation of my success, allowing me to foster teamwork and mutual respect in what is traditionally a male-dominated field.
Finally, I think women often bring resilience and adaptability to the table. These traits have been invaluable as I’ve navigated challenges and changes in my career. They’ve allowed me to turn obstacles into opportunities and to continuously grow, not just as a professional but as a person.
Everyone is looking for good workers, and recruiting more women into the workforce is one possible solution. In your opinion, what barriers do you think exist that sometimes stand in the way and make recruitment difficult?
If you don’t know, then you don’t know – and that’s one of the biggest barriers to recruiting women into the asphalt workforce. Many women simply aren’t aware of the opportunities available in this industry or that they can earn the same wages as the man working next to them. That lack of knowledge can create hesitation or prevent women from considering asphalt as a viable career path.
Organizations like Women of Asphalt are excellent tools for breaking down these barriers by providing mentorship, education, and networking opportunities. But as an industry, we must do more to actively reach out to women and share the message that, while jobs in asphalt construction require hard work, they also offer incredible rewards – financial stability, career growth, and the satisfaction of contributing to critical infrastructure.
I believe starting recruitment efforts in high schools and technical colleges would be a game-changer. By engaging young women early, we can show them the pathways available in this field, whether it’s in project management, technical roles, or hands-on construction. With a targeted campaign, we can demonstrate that the asphalt industry is not only inclusive but also provides meaningful, well-paying careers that women can thrive in.
From when you began your career to now, how has the industry changed most and improved?
I’ve noticed an increased focus on safety – not just physical safety on the jobsite, but also mental health. Suicide rates in the construction industry are alarmingly high, and it’s encouraging to see our industry taking steps to address this issue through awareness and support initiatives.
Mental health is an integral part of safety, and as an industry, we’re beginning to recognize that protecting workers goes beyond physical measures. This heightened focus on both physical and mental well-being ensures that everyone on the team is cared for in a more holistic way.
For me, safety is deeply personal – it’s about making sure that everyone on the team goes home at the end of the day. This not only protects workers but also reinforces the professionalism and care that define our industry.
While there’s still progress to be made, I’m proud of the steps we’ve taken as an industry to evolve and improve over the years.
What would you consider to be your “passion” topic in the industry? What is the subject you get excited to talk about any chance you get?
My passion in the asphalt industry is simple: to make asphalt better. This includes improving the safety and longevity of our roads, particularly through innovations in materials and design. One area I’m especially passionate about is open-graded friction course (OGFC) pavements. While OGFC is great for improving road safety by reducing hydroplaning and increasing visibility during rain, it has to be made more durable and longer lasting to justify the cost for state DOTs. That’s where my work comes in – I truly believe that products like Veritas Green can help extend the life of OGFC pavements, making them more cost-effective and sustainable.
My passion for road safety became deeply personal the day I watched my teenage son drive off alone for the first time. In that moment, I realized just how much trust we place in the roads we build. It’s a responsibility I take to heart, knowing that the work we do has the potential to save lives. Whether it’s through promoting innovative solutions, enhancing pavement designs, or advocating for better maintenance practices, I’m excited to contribute to safer, longer-lasting roads every chance I get.
What would you like other women to know from your experiences who are new to the industry or thinking of joining the industry?
I want you to know that the sky is truly the limit. This is an industry where your work ethic, determination, and willingness to learn matter more than any stereotypes or preconceived notions. The work is undoubtedly hard, but it is also incredibly rewarding – both in the sense of accomplishment and the opportunities for growth.
Don’t let outdated stereotypes hold you back. This industry is for everyone who is willing to put in the effort and take pride in what they do. You’ll find that your contributions are valued and that there are countless opportunities to build a meaningful and successful career. With a good work ethic and a commitment to learning, you can achieve more than you ever thought possible in the asphalt industry.