Her Story
About Sue
Sue Sasse is a business development and sales leader with extensive experience in the asphalt, construction materials, and infrastructure industries. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for driving profitable growth by combining technical expertise with exceptional customer relationships. After holding leadership roles with organizations including Nouryon and Reed International, she launched her own company SB Calworth Infratest Solution LLC, supplying asphalt chemicals and laboratory asphalt testing equipment throughout the United States and Canada. Her commitment to delivering high-quality products, technical support, and customer-focused solutions has earned her the trust of clients across the pavement preservation industry. Sue's career was inspired by her early exposure to the construction industry, where the familiar scent of asphalt from her father's roofing work sparked a lifelong passion. Over the years, she has gained expertise in asphalt materials, construction products, laboratory testing equipment, business development, and strategic account management. While the industry continues to evolve through digital transformation, Sue remains a strong advocate for relationship-based business, believing that meaningful partnerships, technical knowledge, and personalized service are the foundation of long-term success. Her entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to embrace new opportunities led her to establish her own business and continue serving customers with innovative, reliable solutions. Beyond her professional achievements, Sue is a respected leader within the pavement preservation community. She serves as President of the Western Regional Association for Pavement Preservation (WRAPP), regularly contributes to industry conferences, and is recognized as a passionate advocate for increasing opportunities for women in the asphalt and construction sectors. Committed to mentoring the next generation, she hopes to inspire more women to pursue careers in infrastructure by demonstrating that determination, resilience, and strong relationships can lead to lasting success in even the most traditionally male-dominated industries.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sue
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to building genuine, long-lasting relationships and having the confidence to take calculated risks. I trusted my instincts, embraced a 'now or never' mindset when launching my own business, and have remained committed to providing exceptional products, technical expertise, and customer service. I also believe that personal relationships will always outperform technology alone.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to believe in their abilities and never let a male-dominated industry define what they can accomplish. Be confident, build strong relationships, seek opportunities to learn, and don't be afraid to take risks. If I could build a successful business in this industry, so can the next generation of women leaders.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is maintaining meaningful customer relationships as purchasing becomes increasingly digital and automated. At the same time, the greatest opportunity is combining innovative products and technology with personalized service and technical expertise. Strong relationships remain the foundation of long-term business success.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value integrity, trust, genuine relationships, customer commitment, and continuous learning. I believe in supporting others, giving back to my industry through leadership and education, and creating opportunities for women to succeed. Building lasting partnerships based on respect and reliability is at the heart of both my professional and personal life.
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