Opportunities
Indiana’s asphalt industry is where hard work meets opportunity—and where careers are built to last. From the hum of the plant to the crews in the field, this is an industry that literally connects Indiana’s communities. Whether you thrive working with your hands outdoors, operating innovative equipment, managing projects, or analyzing materials in a lab, there’s a place for you.
You don’t need a four-year degree to get started in Indiana’s asphalt industry—many rewarding, high-paying careers begin with on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or technical certifications. You can grow into roles in operations and leadership, building your career through experience, skill development, and a strong work ethic. For those who do pursue college, pathways in construction management, civil engineering, and business leadership also opens doors to roles in design, operations, and leadership. No matter your starting point, this industry values dedication, hard work and a willingness to learn.
In Indiana’s asphalt industry, you’re not just taking a job—you’re building a meaningful career. Your work shapes the roads and infrastructure that keep the state moving, with strong wages, advancement opportunities, and lasting stability.
Want to Find Out More About Asphalt Careers?
If you’re ready to explore where a career in asphalt could take you, reach out to APAI for more information and to get connected with a contractor in your area. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for your next step, we can help point you in the right direction and open the door to opportunities across Indiana.
People Behind the Pavement
Take a look at real stories from people working in Indiana’s pavement industry. These profiles give you a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what a career in asphalt actually looks like and its impact on their lives.
Jazmin Ramierez
Project Manager
Rieth-Riley Construction
Jazmin Ramierez
Jazmin Ramirez discovered Indiana’s asphalt industry through an APAI scholarship she received while attending college. After interviewing for the scholarship, she was offered an internship with Rieth-Riley Construction, where she completed three internships before joining the company full time after graduation.
Her path to the industry was shaped by a unique combination of leadership and hands-on experience. While working at McDonald’s throughout high school, Jazmin developed strong management and communication skills in a fast-paced environment, eventually serving as a floor supervisor through a dual-credit program. At the same time, she enlisted in the Army Reserves as an equipment operator, gaining valuable construction experience that ultimately led her to pursue a degree in construction management.
Today, Jazmin enjoys the ever-changing nature of the industry, where every day brings new challenges, collaboration, and opportunities to problem solve. She values the balance between office responsibilities and field experience, appreciating the flexibility to work both behind the scenes and out on the jobsite.
Jazmin is also passionate about encouraging more women to pursue careers in construction. She believes the industry is evolving and creating more opportunities for women in leadership, management, and technical roles. Her advice to others entering the field is simple: ask questions, stay open to new opportunities, get involved, and build a strong network of people who will support and guide you throughout your career.
Tony Evans
Vice President
E&B Paving, LLC
Tony Evans
A proud member of Indiana’s asphalt industry for 43 years, Tony Evans began his career with E&B Paving at just 17 years old, starting right out of high school. At the time, earning a good-paying union job often depended on who you knew, and thanks to the strong work ethic his father demonstrated while hauling for the Irving family (owners of E&B Paving), Tony was given an opportunity that would shape his future.
While working his way through Purdue University, Tony steadily advanced through the ranks at E&B. He started as a flagger and general laborer before moving into truck driving and eventually operating the company’s lowboy for several seasons. Over the years, he has continued to grow within the company, serving in roles including Assistant Foreman, Superintendent, Estimator, and Area Manager.
For Tony, the most rewarding part of the industry is the people and the relationships built along the way. He takes pride in standing back at the end of the day and seeing the results of the team’s hard work and accomplishments. His journey is a testament to the opportunities available within Indiana’s asphalt industry for those willing to work hard and stay committed.
Tony’s advice to others entering the industry is simple: work hard, stay dedicated, and good things will happen.
Jeff Austin
Director of Asphalt Production
Brooks Construction Co.
Name
After serving in the U.S. Army, Jeff Austin originally planned to pursue a career in federal law enforcement. While working toward that goal, he joined Brooks Construction to help provide for his family. What began as a temporary opportunity quickly became a passion and the foundation for a long-term career in the asphalt industry.
Jeff’s first role at Brooks was as a laborer on a prep and pipe crew. It proved to be the perfect starting point, giving him exposure to many aspects of civil construction and helping him understand how every part of a project works together. While seeing the tangible results of the work was rewarding, it was the people and culture that made the biggest impact on him.
“The people in this industry are what make it special,” Jeff says. “Everyone is working toward a common goal, takes pride in what they do, and genuinely enjoys the work.”
Jeff values not only the men and women at Brooks Construction, but also the relationships built throughout the asphalt industry with vendors, suppliers, and even competitors. While companies compete every day, he appreciates the strong sense of collaboration across the industry as everyone works to improve products, processes, and the future of asphalt construction.
One of the biggest misconceptions Jeff hopes to change is the idea that asphalt is a low-tech industry. “People think we simply make black rock and oil, but nothing could be further from the truth,” he explains. “Our industry relies on material science, chemical and mechanical engineering, logistics, environmental compliance, quality control, data analysis, and construction management.”
Jeff is passionate about encouraging others to explore careers in asphalt and civil construction. His advice to those entering the industry is simple: ask questions, stay curious, and never stop learning.
“This industry is filled with people who are passionate about what they do and willing to share their knowledge,” Jeff says. “Be a sponge, take every opportunity to learn, and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.”