In the world of heavy construction and asphalt engineering, few stories are as inspiring as that of Cheryl Kerwin. With more than three decades of experience at The Gerken Companies, Cheryl’s journey is a testament to dedication, growth, and the importance of community in the workplace.

Cheryl began her career at The Gerken Companies in August 1992 as a heavy construction machinery operator. For 18 years, she honed her skills on the road, maneuvering various types of equipment and learning the nuances of the construction environment. Her innate curiosity about the asphalt she was rolling led to a pivotal shift in her career in 2003. Eager to deepen her understanding, Cheryl obtained her nuclear operator certification, a prerequisite for the Level-1 technician designation, on her own. That helped pave the way for her transition to an asphalt lab technician role in 2010.

As an asphalt lab technician, Cheryl’s responsibilities are critical to ensuring the quality, safety, and durability of asphalt materials. From checking density to conducting Hot Mix Asphalt tests, her expertise is vital to meeting regulatory standards set by organizations such as the EPA, ODOT, and MDOT. Her ODOT Certified Level 3 (Asphalt Concrete Mix Design) qualification speaks volumes about her capabilities, allowing her to perform advanced testing and manage lab operations effectively.

Cheryl’s journey not only highlights her personal growth but also reflects a significant evolution in the industry. She acknowledges the ever-changing nature of construction, where technology and regulations are continuously advancing. The dynamic environment means that schedules can often flip upside down, pushing professionals to adapt quickly. Yet, for Cheryl, this is part of the thrill of working in construction—a field that encourages creative problem-solving and thinking outside the box.

Beyond her technical skills and certifications, Cheryl adds a warm, human touch to the workplace. Describing herself as someone who enjoys joking around and making people laugh, she is the kind of colleague who not only works hard but also fosters camaraderie within the team. An avid baker, Cheryl often delights her coworkers with homemade treats, contributing to a positive, welcoming office culture.

The Personal Side

Cheryl was born in Ashtabula, Ohio, where she grew up alongside two older brothers and an older sister. She was always “Daddy’s little girl,” and remains so today. Her love for adventure shines through in her passion for motorcycling, which she enjoys with her 86-year-old dad. Family is important to Cheryl; she takes immense pride in her 36-year-old daughter and 30-year-old son, each of whom has given her two grandchildren.

Outside of work, Cheryl enjoys primitive camping off the grid. “A good campfire and some music can make the world go away,” she says. Many might not guess that Cheryl holds a brown belt in Hapkido, a martial art focused on real-world self-defense—a testament to her multifaceted character.

In addition to her personal interests, Cheryl actively participates in her community, volunteering with organizations such as Let’s Build Beds, which helps provide children in need with their own beds. “You would be surprised to learn how many teenagers living in homes have never had their own bed,” she says. Her dedication to helping others reflects her compassionate personality and strong sense of community.

Reflecting on her early days at The Gerken Companies, Cheryl fondly remembers the veterans who taught her the ropes. Those initial experiences with her male colleagues, who offered tough love, instilled a strong work ethic and deep respect for the industry. Today, as she excels in her role, she is committed to passing on that knowledge by training new employees, ensuring they understand not only how to perform tasks but also why they matter, thus preparing the next generation for the challenges ahead.

Throughout her career, Cheryl has been fortunate to have fielded offers from other companies. Yet, her loyalty to The Gerken Companies remains steadfast. She appreciates the collaborative spirit of her colleagues and the company’s shared goal of success. “This company has so many people who want to see it succeed. The kind of people I want to work with—and for,” she says, embodying true team spirit.

As Cheryl continues her journey, she remains dedicated to her work, her team, and the values that have shaped her career. Her story inspires us all to embrace our passions, invest in our communities, and create environments where everyone knows they matter. In Cheryl’s world, helping others, making people smile, and getting her hands dirty isn’t just a job; it’s a fulfilling way of life.