Paving Career Paths, Building Leaders: 2025 WofA x Astec Leadership Seminar

In May, 50 WofA members gathered at Astec Industries’ headquarters in Chattanooga, TN, for a two-day experience centered on growth, connection, and leadership. The 2025 Women of Asphalt Executive Seminar, our second annual in partnership with Astec, offered a more intimate setting for members to dive deeper into industry history, leadership journeys, and meaningful conversations. With standout keynote speakers like Jaco van der Merwe, CEO of Astec, and Jay Winford of Prairie Contractors, the event struck a powerful balance between inspiration and strategy.

The seminar’s top-rated features included rich networking opportunities, insightful panel discussions, and Astec’s incredible hospitality, complete with a plant tour and hands-on VR simulator experience. Survey feedback confirmed what we felt in the room: 92% of attendees were satisfied or very satisfied with the experience, and 91% would attend again or recommend it to others. As one attendee put it, “This seminar isn’t just for executives—it’s for every woman ready to lead, learn, and connect from the job site to the boardroom.”

We’re grateful to our partners at Astec for opening their doors and creating space for this meaningful exchange. As we look ahead, we’ll continue refining the experience based on your feedback—including reimagining the event name to ensure every woman feels welcome. Together, we’re paving the future of asphalt—one connection at a time.