Rocky Mountain volunteers offer young women a close-up look at industry

As a part of a career week for young women, students received an immersive introduction to the mining and construction industries with a full day at Spec Agg Quarry, Asphalt and Metro Lab

With her pink hard hat tilted toward the sky and eyes wide with curiosity, Violet learned firsthand how drone technology and mine planning go hand-in-hand.

Awestruck by the many factors of the mining industry, the 15-year-old was one of more than a dozen middle and high school girls to participate in the HOYA Transportation and Construction Girl Summer Program.

During the program’s career week, the young women visited the West Division’s Spec Agg and Metro Lab facilities, where they received an immersive introduction to the mining and construction industries. During a sun-drenched Colorado afternoon, the students met with Martin Marietta team members to learn about the site’s operations and the value its products bring to the local community.

“My favorite part was learning about asphalt. It’s cool to see how it works and how it’s made,” said Violet, a three-year program participant. “When I grow up, I want to work with animals, join the armed services or work in construction. I’m excited to keep exploring all the different parts of this industry.”

Outfitted in full personal protective equipment (PPE), including steel-toed boots provided by Martin Marietta, the girls explored the property’s quarry, asphalt plant and quality control lab. The day included a detailed site tour, material testing, asphalt production demonstrations, and a favorite among participants, drone surveying.

Environmental Services Manager Erin Kunkel, who has led the initiative for the past four years, said she’s proud of her team and company for engaging with the community in such a meaningful way.

“The number of women in our industry is staggeringly small, and many people don’t know what we do,” Kunkel said. “Being involved with a group like this allows us to open our world to young women and inspire their future career paths. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for women across Martin Marietta to network, mentor and build strong connections with the young women who participate.”

One of the most impactful moments of the day came during a networking lunch, where participants heard directly from Martin Marietta employees across departments and management levels. Team members shared advice and offered words of encouragement.

“Never let anyone say you can’t do it,” said Senior Clerk Heida Matthews. “Trust yourself. You know what you’re doing, so never let someone tell you otherwise.”

Senior Technical Services Representative Mike Ballard urged each of the young women to be intentional while planning their future.

“Set goals and do everything in your power to accomplish them,” he said. “It may feel uncomfortable at first, but that’s how you learn and grow.”

Since 2018, the Colorado Metro Asphalt & Paving team has partnered with the HOYA Foundation to support Transportation and Construction Girl, which seeks to promote sustainable careers for young women. Through hands-on training and educational endeavors like the Summer Program, the HOYA Foundation has introduced more than 4,750 women to the construction and transportation industries.

“Martin Marietta has been an amazing partner. I can’t say enough about how much the company contributes to this meaningful cause,” said Keller Hayes, director of the HOYA Foundation. “Erin, the volunteers and the entire company have been incredible in giving these girls such valuable experiences.”

Kunkel said she is excited to see the students succeed in their chosen career paths and equally grateful for all that she has learned through her partnership with the HOYA Foundation.

“We have received a few interns from our work with this program and hope to see more participants come to work with us in the future,” she said. “Overall, this program is a fantastic opportunity that allows me to meet and build lasting relationships with folks across our company. I work with a fantastic team of dedicated volunteers, and together, we get to help young women explore some of the coolest parts of our industry.”