Meet a Family of Women of Asphalt: The Ladies of Primavera Grading and Paving

Women of Asphalt features the Estrada family

In the November 2025 edition of AsphaltPro Magazine, we introduced you to Primavera Grading and Paving, headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. The family contractor began patching potholes and has grown to larger contracts including significant roadway paving projects. As the project responsibilities have grown over the years, so has the family involvement.

What began with Oscar Estrada, Sr., has become a family legacy of quality workmanship and pride. Of course, there are male members of the family doing their part to excel and grow the business. For this feature, we highlight the women who have joined.

From the second generation, Priscilla Estrada serves as a public works estimator. From the third generation, Nicole Estrada manages financial operations and Adrianne Estrada has joined the office to assist estimators. Even a younger member of the third generation, Daniella, works where she’s allowed. To encourage other women in our industry, two of these ladies shared their experiences. Let’s hear first from Priscilla, who joined the industry in 2010 and can detail the requirements of an estimator for those interested in that role.

AsphaltPro: What do you find interesting or fulfilling about being an estimator with Primavera Grading and Paving?

Priscilla Estrada: What I find fulfilling about being an estimator is knowing that my work contributes to improving roads and communities. I take pride in collaborating with engineers and project managers to develop accurate, efficient estimates that help bring essential infrastructure projects to life. Seeing those projects completed and knowing I played a part in making them possible is what truly motivates me.

AsphaltPro: What do you think about this role would be attractive to other women joining the industry?

Priscilla Estrada: This role uses critical thinking, attention to detail and problem solving—qualities many women excel in and enjoy applying.

AsphaltPro: Could you share with the readers what your job as an estimator for Primavera Grading and Paving requires of you? What are some of your daily responsibilities?

Priscilla Estrada: My daily responsibilities are to review plans and specs for city and county jobs, figure out what materials and equipment are needed, and calculate the cost that goes into grading and paving work. It requires a good mix of math, construction knowledge and common sense to make sure everything adds up.

AsphaltPro: Why did you become an estimator? What about that position is “most cool” to you?

Priscilla Estrada: I became an estimator because I enjoy figuring out how a job comes together, from the first set of plans to seeing the finished road. What’s “cool” about estimating is that it gives me that behind-the-scenes role where I can help projects succeed before the crews even hit the ground.

AsphaltPro: What is the most important skill you’ve brought to your position as an estimator? And how would you encourage other women entering the industry to hone a similar skill?

Priscilla Estrada: The most important skills I’ve brought to my role are attention to detail and field experience. In this line of work, you must be precise—understanding quantities, specs and costs. My field experience has helped me build the project in my head and execute a project in a smart financial way.

For other women entering the asphalt industry, I’d say: Don’t underestimate the power of curiosity and confidence. Ask questions, learn the process and trust that your perspective adds value. Whether you’re estimating, managing, or out in the field, mastering the details while staying collaborative will help you grow into any role you want in this industry.

Both Priscilla and Adrianne shared an exuberance for the industry as well as for their family business.

AsphaltPro: What is the most rewarding aspect of being in the asphalt industry?

Priscilla Estrada: The most rewarding part of being in the asphalt industry is seeing the impact of your work in the community. There’s something really satisfying about driving down a road you helped bring to life—knowing that my estimates, planning and teamwork turned into something people use every day.

Adrianne Estrada: The most rewarding part of being in the asphalt industry is growing around it and now becoming part of the work myself. I’ve watched my family put passion into every project, and now I get to carry that forward. Seeing roads and projects come to life and knowing I contributed, even at my age, is something I’m proud of.

AsphaltPro: How has growing up with parents who worked in the asphalt industry affected or influenced your perception of the industry? How did your family business influence your career track?

Priscilla Estrada: Being part of a family business has helped shape my path. I learned the importance of precision, accountability and reputation—because, in this line of work, your name is on every project. Watching my family build strong relationships with cities, contractors and crews inspired me to find my own place in the industry. Estimating felt like the perfect fit—it combines the technical side I enjoy with the legacy I grew up around.

AsphaltPro: What about working with family has made this career most satisfying for you?

Priscilla Estrada: What is satisfying is seeing how everyone brings something different to the table. We each have our own strengths, and that mix of experience, trust and teamwork keeps things running smoothly. There’s a lot of pride in knowing we’re continuing something meaningful together and that the work we do leaves a mark on the community.

AsphaltPro: Growing up with your dad and grandfather leading Primavera Grading and Paving, did you always feel drawn to the company?

Adrianne Estrada: Growing up with my dad and grandfather leading Primavera Grading and Paving, I was always surrounded by the industry, but I didn’t fully realize how much it meant to me until I got older. I watched how dedicated they were and how much pride they took in their work. Somewhere along the way, I found myself drawn to that same sense of purpose. I decided I wanted to work in the industry when I realized I wanted to continue the legacy they built and be part of something that truly impacts our community.

AsphaltPro: What advice or training ideas would you offer to a young lady who is considering additional learning opportunities before diving into this industry?

Adrianne Estrada: My advice to a young lady interested in this industry is to start with the basics and take your time learning takeoffs first. It’s an amazing way to begin because it helps you understand what the industry is about and how projects come together from the very start. Pair that with safety training, equipment awareness and learning job site expectations. Those fundamentals give you a strong foundation and help you feel confident early on. And don’t be afraid to ask questions; most people in this industry are more than willing to teach if they see you’re eager to learn.