Keeley'n Spotlight: Austin Maraman

The Keeley Heavy Civil Infrastructure Group is growing rapidly across the country and our Infrastructure group continues to live our mission by exceeding expectations on every project. Fortunately, with growth comes fostering the next generation of Keeley’ns and allowing them to take their career into their own hands. Austin Maraman, Project Engineer for Heavy Civil Infrastructure, has taken advantage of the opportunities presented to him, allowing him to work hard and help the Infrastructure group thrive.

Austin joined the Keeley team upon his graduation from Missouri S&T in May of 2022. Since walking in the door and starting his career, he has jumped right into exciting projects, learning something new every day and contributing his ideas and opinions to his team. By having this freedom to grow, Austin has felt empowered in his role and excited for what each day brings.

“As time goes on, I’ve had many opportunities to step up and be involved in projects where I’m making decisions, giving direction, and building relationships with clients and suppliers. I am trusted to make these decisions and do what it takes to contribute to a project and not feel limited.”

Growing up, Austin’s dad worked as a carpenter in residential construction, so he was always having fun walking jobsites and seeing the work that was going on. When he was in 5th grade, his family built their first home and he remembers taking so much pride in helping his dad with the construction and it has been his passion ever since. Since sparking this passion at an early age and making a career for himself in the industry, Austin’s favorite thing is constantly learning and growing on the job. Things are always changing in construction and as they change, he is able to gain experience and be part of solutions to challenges and pave the way for the younger generation. If he could give a piece of advice to those just starting out in the industry, it would be:

“Be patient and don’t be afraid to ask questions. There is so much to learn and the amount of knowledge that can be offered from your team members is priceless. Surround yourself with those resources, soak up everything you can, and take plenty of notes. In construction, things can change in an instant and it’s easy to get frustrated when things change. Adapt and control what you can and mange through the changes. There is always a solution and an opportunity to learn.”

Since joining Keeley, Austin has fully embraced the culture of accountability, growth, and fun. His favorite part about being a Keeley’n is his team and how everyone comes together for a common goal while having fun and supporting each other. This team is the foundation for his vision for the future. Austin sees himself becoming a Project Manager while being an integral part of a mentorship program that helps younger Project Engineers and interns thrive in the industry. He wants to be able to give them resources, encourage them, and set them up for success just as his fellow Keeley’ns have done for him.

Austin is grateful to have started his construction career at Keeley and he is excited for what lies ahead. The Heavy Civil Infrastructure team is growing quickly, and he is excited to be along for the ride.

“Keeley isn’t your normal general contractor. We are able to self-perform various types of work – allowing everyone to gain more knowledge and experience. Keeley has a great atmosphere that is uplifting, fun, and doesn’t leave you drained at the end of the day. Keeley sets you up for every chance to grow and succeed no matter your background. It is very fulfilling to be part of a company that genuinely cares about its people and their growth.”

Austin, thank you for your unique perspectives and passion for the Heavy Civil Infrastructure team. You are just getting started and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you continue to accomplish! We are proud to have you as a Keeley’n!