From the Lab "Bench" to the Jobsite
Member Monday Spotlight: Stormy Brewster
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.
Next up: Stormy Brewster, Senior Asphalt Technologist at Marathon Petroleum Company. Whether she's troubleshooting for customers, researching new products, or sharing a memorable photo with a monkey, Stormy brings curiosity and enthusiasm to everything she does. Her 17-year career in asphalt is a great example of the many paths available within our industry.
Meet Stormy
How did you get started in the asphalt industry?
Seventeen years ago, Stormy was offered a position certifying asphalt binder at Marathon Petroleum's refinery in Catlettsburg, Kentucky.
What began as a laboratory role quickly evolved into a career filled with research, innovation, customer support, and industry leadership. In 2013, she accepted a position creating an asphalt and emulsion research lab for Marathon's Asphalt Technology Group, and since then has served in multiple roles as a binder and emulsion subject matter expert.
Today, she combines technology and marketing responsibilities while continuing to help advance the future of asphalt.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
For Stormy, it's the opportunity to solve problems and see the impact of her work firsthand.
"I really enjoy troubleshooting and problem-solving for our customers. Being out on the jobsite and seeing the end use of our materials is very rewarding."
She also enjoys helping shape what's next through research, innovation, and new product development.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in this industry?
"Go for it!"
Stormy encourages people to keep an open mind about where a career in asphalt can lead. "As a chemist, I thought the bulk of my career would be spent at a lab bench, but it has turned into so much more than that."
One day might involve working with a paving crew, while another could include collaborating with a DOT, county engineer, or company owner. That's part of what keeps the industry exciting! "You never know what the day will bring, especially during paving season."
What does being part of Women of Asphalt mean to you?
As Stormy became more involved in industry organizations, she gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of supporting and connecting women across the asphalt industry.
She has seen firsthand how female representation has grown throughout her career. Within Marathon's Asphalt Technology Group alone, the number of women has grown from just two team members thirteen years ago to more than half the group today. "That's incredible!"
Stormy values the opportunity to network with other women in the industry and hopes to become someone future generations can look up to.
"My goal as a woman in this field is to become one of those people that newcomers can look up to."
What's something people might be surprised to learn about your job?
Many people assume Marathon Petroleum focuses primarily on fuels.
However, Stormy says people are often surprised to learn that asphalt has its own dedicated product quality group at Marathon and that significant attention is given to how asphalt performs in paving, roofing, coatings, and pavement preservation applications.
Stormy's journey is a great reminder that careers in asphalt can take many unexpected paths. From the laboratory to the jobsite, she's helping drive innovation while supporting customers and mentoring the next generation of industry professionals.
We're proud to spotlight Stormy and the impact she's making 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. 💗