VAA Virginia Asphalt Fall/Winter 2021

VAASPHALT.ORG 33 Jade Santos, Screed Operator, Branscome, Inc. TO LEAD AND INSPIRE women to increase the recognition of their value through this group effort, then I want to use our branch in Virginia to do so.” Both Alicia and Blair plan to empower other women through the Virginia branch and promote the asphalt industry as a place of inclusivity. There is truly no limit to what a woman can do when she puts her mind to something, but there is a saying: “It takes a village.” When a community of women bands together to make a change and advo- cate for each other, change can happen. One voice in a crowd is hard to hear, but a whole group of voices does not go unnoticed. That is the goal for the WofA Virginia branch. That it would be a sisterhood and commu- nity for women to step up as leaders, make their voices heard, evoke change and inspire other women to join. The first in-person kick-off event for Women of Asphalt Virginia on September 16 was a true testament to this mission and has since motivated its leaders to con- tinue the strong momentum. There is no competition to become the largest state branch. Still, WofA Virginia is committed to reaching as many women as possible within the state’s industry and has no plan to stop any time soon. The more women, and men, that get involved in supporting the mission of this organization, the more impact can be made on the industry. WofA Virginia has plans to host various events in 2022 and in the coming years to provide networking, professional development and educational opportunities to the women of the Virginia asphalt industry. To close out a great year, they also plan to host a luncheon at the Mid-Atlantic Asphalt Expo & Con- ference in December 2021. Attendees of the conference will be encouraged to stop by the Women of Asphalt Virginia booth within the tradeshow and women are welcomed to attend the luncheon. It will be a great place to inspire women to join the community and get people talking. Everything starts with a conversation, right? Without the word being spread, some women wouldn’t know to look within the asphalt industry. After crazy years like 2020 and 2021, the labor force has faced shortages like never before due to the pandemic. Workforce development is vital in the coming years, and there is potential for women to fill the gaps within the industry. These positions can become long-term careers, not just “jobs.” WofA exists for this very reason—to make these opportunities known to women and show them an option they may not have considered. An industry full of diver- sity and inclusivity will genuinely thrive. The more perspectives, ideas and skills that can be brought to the table will only make companies better in the long run. Women must be given a chance to prove themselves. Many have already done so—generation after generation. Still, there is always room for women to reach, make a name for them- selves and break barriers within the asphalt industry. It all starts with the decision to become something, so ladies, if you’re going to be anything… Be a leader. Be an inspiration. Be a Woman of Asphalt.