ATS and Duval Asphalt Host Asphalt Day with Goodwill's GoodTrades Program

Duval Asphalt and Asphalt Testing Solutions & Engineering (ATS) recently partnered with Goodwill Industries of North Florida's GoodTrades program to introduce participants to the many rewarding career opportunities available in the asphalt industry.

During the event, ATS Director of Operations Steve McReynolds and Duval Asphalt Production Manager TJ Young provided an engaging overview of the asphalt industry, explaining how asphalt plants operate, how paving crews bring projects to life, and the critical role laboratory testing plays in ensuring quality, safety, and long-lasting roadways. Participants also learned about the wide range of careers available throughout the industry, from production and paving to quality control and heavy equipment operation.

"I would have never known that Goodwill was so involved in workforce development if we hadn't been invited to participate in this program," said McReynolds. "The turnout for our presentation introducing asphalt as an employment opportunity was impressive, and the interaction of questions concerning our industry showed that the participants are there to learn and find a career path going forward."

Adding a hands-on element to the day, Ring Power brought its advanced Cat® Heavy Equipment Simulator, allowing participants to experience operating construction equipment in a safe, realistic environment. The simulator replicates real machine controls and job site conditions, helping build operator confidence while reinforcing safe operating practices.

“It was great to be able to share the opportunities for careers in the asphalt pavement industry,” said Young. “The video presentations and hands-on experience with the paving equipment and the equipment simulators really seemed to hit the mark with the attendees. It was great fun, and we look forward to a few of the attendees joining our industry! Goodwill deserves a ‘shout out’ for thinking ahead and putting companies like us in front of their adult learners. We are looking forward to coming back!”

Duval Asphalt President Mitchell Gant joined the session to share insights into what the company looks for when hiring new team members and the long-term opportunities that exist within the industry. "The asphalt industry offers more than just a job; it offers a career with opportunities to learn, grow, and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve," he said. "We're always looking for individuals with a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to working safely as part of a team."

Events like Asphalt Day help connect motivated individuals with meaningful career paths while strengthening the future of the asphalt workforce. Duval Asphalt and ATS are proud to support programs like GoodTrades that invest in workforce development and provide participants with the knowledge and confidence to pursue careers in skilled trades.

“Thanks to Duval Asphalt and ATS, participants learned about career pathways, connected with industry professionals, and experienced heavy equipment up close,” said Phillips Simmons, Goodwill Industries Vice President of Mission Services. “A special thank you to Ring Power for bringing the Cat® Heavy Equipment Simulator, which gave participants an exciting hands-on experience operating equipment in a safe, interactive environment. Experiences like these help bridge the gap between training and employment by exposing participants to high-demand careers and the opportunities that await them. Thank you to Duval Asphalt, ATS, and Ring Power for investing in the future of our workforce!”

We are grateful to Goodwill Industries of North Florida for the opportunity to share our industry and look forward to continuing to inspire the next generation of asphalt professionals. Interested in learning more about career opportunities at Duval Asphalt? Visit our website: https://www.asphalttesting.info/careers

To learn more about Goodwill Industries GoodTrades program, visit their website: https://goodwillnorthfl.org/goodtrades/

To learn more about the Cat® Heavy Equipment Simulator, visit https://catsimulators.com/.

‍