Beneath the Blacktop

Beneath the Blacktop
Podcast Description
Beneath the Blacktop is more than a podcast—it's a journey into the heartbeat of the materials and construction industry.
Produced by CRH’s Midsouth Materials region, which spans Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama, this podcast pulls back the curtain on the people, processes, and purpose behind the work we do every day. Whether you work in the industry or are simply curious about what it takes to build and maintain the roads, infrastructure, and communities around you—this show offers a seat at the table.
Each episode features candid conversations with voices from every corner of our business:
- Plant operators and field crews sharing what a day on the job really looks like
- Experts in safety, training and development, and government relations breaking down the decisions that shape our work
Leaders and innovators highlighting how we’re preparing for the future
- And even voices outside the company—from mental health professionals to equipment providers—who bring fresh perspectives and vital insights to the challenges and successes we experience in this space
You'll hear stories of grit, innovation, resilience, and teamwork—told by the people living them. Whether it's exploring what goes into paving a highway, the emotional toll of the job, or how our teams are leading the way in safety and sustainability, Beneath the Blacktop is here to inform, inspire, and connect.
So if you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build the world beneath your feet—or want to get to know the incredible people who make it all possible—hit subscribe and join us as we dig deeper, think bigger, and go beneath the blacktop.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores themes centered on the materials and construction industry, including the daily experiences of plant operators and field crews, insights from safety and training experts, and leadership perspectives on future developments. Episodes dive into topics such as the quality control of construction materials, the emotional challenges faced by professionals, and the impact of infrastructure funding, featuring real stories of grit and innovation.

Beneath the Blacktop is more than a podcast—it’s a journey into the heartbeat of the materials and construction industry.
Produced by CRH’s Midsouth Materials region, which spans Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama, this podcast pulls back the curtain on the people, processes, and purpose behind the work we do every day. Whether you work in the industry or are simply curious about what it takes to build and maintain the roads, infrastructure, and communities around you—this show offers a seat at the table.
Each episode features candid conversations with voices from every corner of our business:
– Plant operators and field crews sharing what a day on the job really looks like
– Experts in safety, training and development, and government relations breaking down the decisions that shape our work
Leaders and innovators highlighting how we’re preparing for the future
– And even voices outside the company—from mental health professionals to equipment providers—who bring fresh perspectives and vital insights to the challenges and successes we experience in this space
You’ll hear stories of grit, innovation, resilience, and teamwork—told by the people living them. Whether it’s exploring what goes into paving a highway, the emotional toll of the job, or how our teams are leading the way in safety and sustainability, Beneath the Blacktop is here to inform, inspire, and connect.
So if you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build the world beneath your feet—or want to get to know the incredible people who make it all possible—hit subscribe and join us as we dig deeper, think bigger, and go beneath the blacktop.
In this episode, we sit down with Paul Albrecht, Regional Director of Training and Development for the Midsouth Materials Region at CRH, to explore how career development, training programs, and emerging technologies are shaping the future of the construction industry. From hands-on skills to digital tools, Paul offers insight into how companies like Barriere, APAC Alabama, and APAC MS/TN are equipping employees for long-term success.
We cover:
- How our company is evolving training for both traditional and tech-based roles
- The value of mentorship and internal mobility in career growth
- How internship programs are creating career pathways for the next generation
- Advice for anyone looking to break into the industry or move up the ladder
Whether you’re new to construction or looking to grow your career, this episode is packed with practical guidance and real-world insight—straight from the front lines of workforce development.

Disclaimer
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