Lakeside Women Paving the Way is a community of employees passionate about addressing women’s role in the ever-changing landscape of the asphalt industry. Inspired by the national organization.

Women of Asphalt, the group tackles various subjects as women are progressively assuming more prominent roles in our industry. By offering workplace development opportunities, education, encouragement, and support, the group aims to empower women in an industry historically dominated by men.

In 2017, Lakeside took initiative to establish this group as many leaders across the company saw the great opportunity to support the women within our organization. In a short span of time, the group implemented a range of positive changes that benefited all employees.

After pausing meetings due to the pandemic, Lakeside Women Paving the Way gathered again in early 2023. The group met for a full-day conference where they were able to get together as a collective, exchange ideas, discuss issues, and foster a greater sense of community. From discussions on enhancing recruitment efforts and fostering a diverse and empowering workplace to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, the group engaged in various productive conversations. They covered a range of important topics, exploring potential solutions and sharing ideas on how to enhance practices we already have. As the meeting concluded, a great sense of unity and camaraderie solidified the success of the group.

According to the CDC, men working in construction have a suicide rate that is about four times higher than the general population and is the second-highest rate of all workplace industries. This staggering reality emphasizes the need for increased awareness and support for mental health in our industry.

Regular, open conversations regarding mental health awareness are an important and necessary step for destigmatizing the subject. These conversations can help people feel more comfortable and empowered to seek the help they may need. Breaking the stigma of mental health advocacy is something that we must all work together to do in order to keep our friends, families, and coworkers safe.

If someone you know is struggling emotionally, or having a hard time, you can be the difference in getting them the help they need. Additionally, it’s essential to take care of yourself when supporting someone through a difficult time, as this may stir up difficult emotions. If it does, please reach out for support yourself.

Some early warning signs to watch for with yourself, or those you live and work with are:

  • Eating or sleeping too much or too little
  • Pulling away from people and usual activities
  • Having low or no energy
  • Feeling numb or as if nothing matters
  • Having unexplained aches and pains
  • Feeling helpless or hopeless
  • Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
  • Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared
  • Yelling or fighting with family and friends
  • Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
  • Having persistent thoughts and memories you can’t get out of your head
  • Hearing voices or believing things that are not true
  • Thinking of harming yourself or others
  • Inability to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school

Call 988 at any time for help if you or a friend is struggling.