Producer Member of the Month: King Asphalt, Inc. Highlights a Partnership that Begins with a High School Freshman

  

Three years ago, Jacob Lopez was a high school freshman whose only goal was to spend time with friends, maybe learn a little something, and just get through high school. His counselor enrolled him in a career exploratory course at Golden Strip Career Center in Greenville, SC, where he learned he could take a Building Construction course to earn high school credits. His family has worked in construction for many years, and Jacob quickly became a top student in the program. Just before graduation, Jacob began thinking about what he really wanted to do with his life.

Fast forward to today. Jacob Lopez is earning high school credits while making money working a part-time job with King Asphalt, Inc. This work-based learning experience is a partnership between King Asphalt and Golden Strip Career Center. Each afternoon during his regular class time, Lopez reports to work as an Asphalt Plant Ground and Maintenance Person.

Work-based learning takes one’s knowledge and skills from the classroom and applies it through opportunities with employers throughout our community. Many of these jobs turn into full-time employment, which is a huge benefit to our business and community partners.

Each day, Lopez monitors and maintains items in the bag house, greases bearings, and assists with necessary repairs and housekeeping. He is also learning to operate heavy equipment required to produce hot mix asphalt. Supervisor Chris Cook shares that Jacob has great communication skills, is willing to learn, and is very customer service-oriented. “Lopez remembers customers’ names which has been noticed and appreciated.”

Zachary Michael, VP of Human Resources, shares King Asphalt, Inc.’s vision for investing in future generations, and not just because his wife is a public educator. “We believe this program is successful because it provides students specific, job-related skills and knowledge which opens job opportunities without the average $30,000 in debt. Students are getting fantastic, hands-on training that builds confidence in a real working environment. The program benefits our economy, develops a qualified individual, and enhances our company and industry reputation. Our success is correcting an industry negative perception. There are fulfilling, rewarding, and engaging careers in the asphalt industry.”

Everyone benefits. Students gain valuable exposure to the world of work, businesses gain access to a diverse and innovative labor pool, and the school gains an industry partner to support and train more students.

“King Asphalt teaches me to focus and be willing to learn. Communication is a key to success. I am learning to take my career seriously and to work hard. I will strive to be the best teammate and employee I can be.”

Jacob Lopez will graduate high school this June and has accepted a full-time position with King Asphalt, Inc.

Thank you, King Asphalt, for being SCAPA's Featured Producer Member of the Month and for your continued support!