I mentioned, I do a little bit of everything. A typical day at work includes making sure bids are getting done and that paperwork and certifications are completed, as well as attending all meetings. It is an all-hands-on-deck mindset, doing whatever is needed to get the job done, especially during the busy season. How did you get into the asphalt industry? So, prior to working at Consolidated Paving & Concrete, I worked for a funeral home in Ogden. I'd always wanted to work in the funeral industry and enjoyed learning the trade. Then, COVID hit. Hours were being shortened and work was not the same. I applied at Consolidated Paving & Concrete and when they called me back, I had actually taken a different job offer in Salt Lake City. I thought, “It's close to home. Years ago, I was an estimator, and I loved it!” I decided that this was my chance to get back into the industry. I am so glad I took this job. What is the most rewarding part of your career so far? Seeing completed work is rewarding — from the first estimate to seeing the end product. It is so fulfilling for me because I see all the hard-working people and I know all the time and effort it took, internally and externally, to get to a final product. We have a great team. Who are your most important mentors? I say my most impactful mentor is Jeremiah. He is the person that helps me if I ask questions. He doesn’t just answer them; he'll explain them to me so I understand completely. I'm super grateful for that because I love learning, and he's willing to teach and take the time to help me. Three years ago, I would have been like, “I'm just going to be in the office, paper pushing and stuff like that.” But because of him, I've grown to such a higher level of achievement. If you could talk to other women about a career in the asphalt industry, what would you tell them? This industry is not just for men. I think that's something that a lot of women that I've talked to think — that guys do that and girls don't do that. We have paver and heavy equipment operators who are women. There is so much opportunity for women in this field. When it comes to road maintenance, if you pay close attention, you'll see a ponytail behind the hard hat. What are the three most important work-related lessons you’ve learned that you would share with someone you mentor? 1. Never stop learning. I find that if I’m given an assignment, I achieve it, but always ask myself, “What else can I learn?” It is the “why’s,” “what’s,” and “how’s” of the job that lead to other opportunities. If you are interested in learning more or doing something else, talk to your employer. 2. Set goals. This industry is fast-paced, and setting goals is important. When I mentor others, I like to ask, “What is your next goal? How are you going to be better than yesterday? How can you do more than that?” Setting goals pushes us to improve ourselves and to keep learning. 3. Don’t limit yourself. I want to remind women that if you come in as an office assistant but you want to be out in the field shoveling asphalt, you can do it — you can be both! Please tell us how you spend your time when you are not working, i.e., family, hobbies, etc. I have two boys, ages 13 and 18, and a little schnauzer that I am obsessed with. Together, we love shopping, hanging out, trying out local restaurants and going for long drives. I also enjoy all that Utah has to offer — hiking in the summer and snowboarding in the winter. I have decided to start skiing this year and recently learned how to golf. 19
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