The asphalt industry is known for tradition, grit, and a workforce built over generations. Yet women remain underrepresented, making up just 11% of the construction industry and often less than 2% of field roles, despite representing 47% of the overall U.S. workforce.
Recognizing the gap, Women of Asphalt was founded in 2018 with a mission to create a dues-free, accessible community that elevates women at all stages of their careers, from interns to CEOs.
Leading that mission is Brittyn Heisler, the organization’s first Executive Director. In her role, she connects with local branches, engages with members and develops initiatives to raise awareness about career opportunities for women in asphalt. “We really focus on workforce and bringing awareness to women about career opportunities in the asphalt industry,” she said.
A Mission Without Barriers
What makes Women of Asphalt unique is its accessibility. By eliminating membership dues, the organization removes financial barriers and creates a welcoming entry point for women who may not have considered a career in asphalt. Programs like national mentorships and virtual webinars provide tangible career-building opportunities that are available to all members.
Heisler emphasizes that this is about more than community, it’s really about addressing workforce needs.
“Whether you’re a student intern or a CEO, Women of Asphalt is a place to connect, find mentorship, and grow your career,” she said. With ongoing labor shortages in construction, recruiting and retaining women is not just a diversity goal; it’s a workforce solution.
Breaking Into the Blacktop
Heisler didn’t come to asphalt through the trades. Her path started in the association world, where she discovered a passion for helping people in the workforce. “I’ve always been an association nerd. I’m passionate about finding someone’s talent or strength and bringing that to a career,” she said.
Her experience included internships at the Chamber of Commerce and later a full-time role with the Asphalt Pavement Association. “I didn’t know anything about the industry, but I had a solid background in association and marketing. They took a chance on me and I’m grateful,” she said. Eventually, she saw the opening at Women of Asphalt and recognized the potential to make a difference.
Finding Her Edge
Heisler credits her perspective and mentors for helping her navigate the industry. “I think it’s important to always be your own champion, especially as a woman. Sometimes we want to be shy and not own what we’re good at, but it’s important to stand up for yourself,” she said. Guidance from mentors has been key: “I’ve been lucky enough to have some amazing mentors who have empowered me and really helped mold me into the career woman I am.”
Heisler also notes that she’s never encountered an ego too big in the industry. No matter how high in leadership someone is, she’s only been met with interest and shared knowledge.
Barriers and Opportunities
Recruiting and retaining women in asphalt comes with both awareness and practical challenges. For many, the first barrier is simply visibility. “A lot of women don’t consider or even know about careers in construction because they haven’t been marketed to us,” Heisler said. Without targeted outreach, entire career paths go unnoticed.
Even when women enter the field, balancing work and family responsibilities can be another hurdle. “Finding and affording childcare can be difficult in any career field, but in this industry there are often strange hours and shifts that traditional daycares aren’t open for.”
That’s why professional development, mentorship, and community are so critical. Women of Asphalt works to fill those gaps through its national mentorship program, educational webinars, and networking opportunities — resources designed to keep women engaged and supported at every stage of their careers.
But progress is being made. Women in asphalt earn about 96 cents for every dollar a man makes, significantly higher than the national average of 85 cents. And as Heisler points out, progress has been possible thanks to support across the industry. “I’ve talked a lot about women, because that is the main focus of Women of Asphalt, but we also would not be where we are as an organization without our male allies,” she said.
A New Generation of Leadership
Though she has been in the industry for just three years, Heisler has noticed younger professionals becoming more engaged. “I’ve started seeing younger people in associations and at conferences looking to be more involved or further their education,” she said. At the same time, she’s seen the industry embrace new topics: workforce development, mental health and other social issues that were once overlooked.
Heisler’s enthusiasm extends to raising visibility for Women of Asphalt outside the construction world. Professionals outside of construction are always inquisitive about her role and WofA when she attends different trade shows.
“They always have so many questions and are surprised to hear about the opportunities and focus on women in such a traditionally male-dominated industry.”
Advice for the Next Generation
For those entering the field, Heisler’s advice is clear: “Become a sponge. Get into the industry and soak up everything you can from those who know more than you do and who have been there longer. Don’t be too proud to ask questions and ask for help, and you can really succeed in this industry, even if you came in knowing nothing.”
Through her work at Women of Asphalt, Heisler is helping ensure that more women see these doors — not just as an invitation, but as a critical workforce solution for the future.
Get Involved
For those looking to take part in the movement, Women of Asphalt offers an open door. Membership is free, with opportunities to join local branches, connect with mentors, or participate in national initiatives.
Whether you’re just exploring a career in construction or already leading a team, the organization provides tools, community, and visibility to help women thrive in asphalt. To learn more or get involved, visit www.womenofasphalt.org/membership.
