Petska puts in the work, now leads by example

Super Super of the Year –
Will Petska, Northeast Asphalt

Will Petska began his career with Payne + Dolan as a laborer on a portable asphalt paving crew.

Never one to be satisfied with the status quo, he was eager to take on additional challenges. After just a year as a laborer, former Payne + Dolan Chairman and CEO Ned Bechthold asked Petska what he wanted to do with himself.

Petska replied that he wanted to build a career that would grow into becoming a foreman and superintendent. After a lot of sweat and hard work, Petska has done just that. Today, he is a paving superintendent for the Walbec group of companies.

One of the things that Petska enjoys most about his work are the people.

“It’s about being present with the crews, mentoring team members, providing training and checking in regularly to show them you care,” said Petska.

He takes pride in helping crews succeed and learning new processes, being present during safety huddles to help reinforce Walbec’s commitment to safety and ensuring the crews have what they need to be successful.

His success as a superintendent begins at home. Petska credits his wife of 37 years, Lynn, for giving him the support he needed to advance in his career. He also relies on his connections with the people throughout Walbec, whether it’s the leaders, people he mentors or new hires.

“Will Petska is a dedicated and well-respected Northeast Asphalt leader,” said Kevin Foley, operations manager, Northeast Asphalt. “He consistently puts the needs of others first and provides patient leadership to crews, ensuring they are always equipped to be successful daily. He is passionate about mentoring others, sharing his knowledge and best practices and encouraging team members to build a career of purpose.”

In his free time, Petska is active in his local sportsman club, where he helps to train kids in hunter safety. He also volunteers through his local church, providing meals to the homeless throughout the Green Bay area.