From Internship to Industry Leader

Member Monday  Spotlight: Geordan Skyles

 We’re continuing our Member Monday series  highlighting the incredible individuals who make  up the Women of Asphalt community. Every other week, we’re sharing member stories, career journeys, and what drives them.

This week, we're featuring Geordan Skyles, Construction Manager at Granite Construction. What started as a college internship quickly turned into a career she never expected and one she now loves!

Meet Geordan 

How did you get started in the asphalt industry?
Like many people, Geordan didn't set out to build a career in asphalt.

While studying civil engineering, she landed an internship with Granite Construction. At the time, she knew very little about heavy civil construction, or asphalt, but the experience opened her eyes to an industry full of opportunity.

"I was going to school to be a civil engineer and was lucky enough to get an internship with Granite. I didn't know much about heavy civil construction, let alone asphalt, but learned quickly that I enjoyed both!"

That internship became the foundation for a rewarding career managing construction projects and helping build the infrastructure people rely on every day.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

For Geordan, it's the people.

Whether collaborating with coworkers, contractors, or industry partners, she enjoys working together to solve problems and deliver projects that make a lasting impact.

"Working with others in the industry to solve problems and ensure we are helping make the world a better place is very rewarding."

From highways and roadways to the communities they connect, Geordan finds purpose in knowing her work helps improve everyday life.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in this industry?

Her advice is simple: Just try it!

Many women don't initially consider careers in construction because the industry has traditionally been male-dominated. Geordan hopes more women will look beyond those perceptions and explore the possibilities.

"It's something that I never thought I would enjoy. The industry as a whole naturally portrays itself toward men, so most women don't even think about it as an option."

Her own story is proof that taking a chance can lead to an exciting and fulfilling career.

Building The Future

Geordan's journey is a reminder that some of the best careers begin with a willingness to try something new.

From a college internship to leading construction projects, she discovered an industry filled with teamwork, purpose, and opportunities to grow. Her story also highlights why increasing awareness of careers in asphalt is so important: many talented professionals simply haven't been introduced to the opportunities our industry has to offer. 

Earlier this year, Geordan also helped launch the Women of Asphalt Oregon Branch, creating new opportunities for professionals across the Pacific Northwest to connect, learn, and grow together. Her leadership is helping strengthen the asphalt community both on and off the jobsite.

If you're in Oregon, or simply want to see the great work happening across the state, be sure to follow the Women of Asphalt Oregon Branch on social media and stay connected with upcoming events and opportunities.

We're proud to spotlight Geordan and thank her for the impact she's making at Granite Construction, within Women of Asphalt, and across our industry. 👏

Want a colleague featured?

We’d love to highlight someone on your team in an upcoming Member Monday spotlight.

👉 Submit here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5ZJBBWV

More member spotlights coming soon. 💗