Some careers grow quietly. Others reshape the landscape. Cyndy’s story does both. A proud 2012 graduate of our Highway Construction Skills Training program, Cyndy holds a remarkable distinction: she is the longest-tenured graduate still actively working in the construction industry today. More than a decade later, she continues to prove what’s possible when opportunity meets determination.
When Cyndy entered the field in 2012, she wasn’t just starting a job, she was paving the way. After graduating from HCST (then known as TrANS), Cyndy joined Hoffman Construction as a flagger. At the time, she was the first Native American woman working in the field and then one of only nine TrANS graduates employed in construction. In an industry where representation was limited, Cyndy stood out through her consistency, grit, and zero-nonsense work ethic.
Building Momentum Through Curiosity and Courage
In 2013, Cyndy advanced into an Apprentice Laborer role with Edward Kramer Construction, continuing to build hands-on experience. But settling was never her style. Driven by curiosity and a desire to grow, she began exploring safety-related roles—an interest that opened doors at Integrity Grading and Excavating and expanded her understanding of the industry from the ground up.
By 2014, Cyndy found her professional calling at Northeast Asphalt, stepping into the role of Quality Control Technician. It was here that her skills, interests, and purpose aligned—and her career truly took off.
Through the years, Cyndy quickly rose through the ranks at Northeast Asphalt earning her Level I Heavy Highway Density Technician certification, achieving Level II Heavy Highway Density Technician status, and now serves as a Level II Density Mentor, Profilograph Technician, and Aggregate Technician!
Today, Cyndy isn’t just excelling—she’s mentoring others, sharing knowledge, and helping shape the next generation of construction professionals.
The HCST Foundation: Opportunity That Lasts
Cyndy’s journey reflects the heart of HCST’s mission and its enduring motto: “Overcome, Adapt, Find a Way.”
HCST provided Cyndy with more than job training—it offered industry-recognized certifications, hands-on experience, career readiness skills, and direct pathways into construction careers. Most importantly, HCST gave her the confidence and support to step into an industry where few looked like her—and thrive.
Cyndy’s success is not just a personal achievement—it’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when talent is nurtured and opportunity is accessible. She transformed a starting position into a thriving, respected career and continues to open doors for others along the way. For anyone wondering if construction is the right path, Cyndy’s journey proves that drive, curiosity, and courage can turn any starting point into a launching pad.
If you are looking to start a job in construction, this free six-week training sets you up to enter a high-paying career in the field. See if you’re ready to take on this life-changing challenge today.
