Building More Than Roads: Jed Martin’s Journey With HIWAY
At HIWAY, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We take pride in fostering a culture built on pride, honesty, respect, and drive — values that not only guide our work but also shape how we support and uplift each other every day.
We’re committed to helping our team grow, both personally and professionally, and Jed Martin, our NSW Business Manager, is a perfect example of that. Jed recently managed a project that achieved finalist status at the 2024 AustStab Awards, a testament to his leadership, expertise, and the culture of innovation and support we strive to create.
FROM OPEN WATERS TO OPEN ROADS
Growing up in Auckland, Jed spent much of his time on the water as a competitive sailor, even earning a spot in New Zealand’s Olympic Yachting Squad. While his goal was to compete in the America’s Cup, his mother’s advice to have a backup plan led him to explore career expos, where civil engineering kept catching his attention. With a knack for problem-solving and inspired by the fact that America’s Cup legend Russell Coutts was also an engineer, he saw a path that could combine technical skill with tangible impact.
From the moment he graduated from the University of Auckland in 2009 with first-class honours in Civil Engineering, Jed was already setting himself apart. With a natural drive for innovation and a diploma in project management under his belt, he’s built a career spanning over 18 years in pavement stabilisation and civil construction. But for Jed, it’s never just been about the work — it’s about pushing boundaries, finding smarter solutions, and making a real impact on the industry, the environment, and the people around him.
Even early on, Jed had his sights set on the future. At just 28, he was already championing sustainability as Young Stabiliser of the Year in 2016 — long before it became the industry standard.
“All firms are making that shift to sustainable practice. It’s one of those things that’s going to improve in the future, as aggregates become more scarce and the need for more sustainability grows. It’s the way of the future for road construction because it’s constantly evolving”.
A TEAM-FIRST APPROACH TO LEADERSHIP
From his early days at HIWAY to his current role as Business Manager for NSW, Jed has made a lasting impact on both sides of the Tasman. He’s built a team culture that thrives on collaboration, where every member feels empowered to contribute and push the boundaries of innovation.
Over the years, Jed has led some of HIWAY’s most high-profile projects. His work on the Hornsby Junction Rail Remodelling in 2017 earned an AustStab Award the following year, while his oversight of the Ballina Bypass’s 11 stages in 2018 showcased his precision and expertise. On the Inland Rail Project, he played a key role in coordinating Australia’s largest stabilisation job at the time — 150km from Parkes to Narromine. More recently, he was instrumental in the Sydney Gateway Project, where HIWAY’s innovative use of lime and cement combinations cut landfill waste and material costs, earning another AustStab Award in 2023. His commitment to sustainable solutions continued with the Wollar Solar Farm, where his team’s approach saved time and minimised environmental impact, making them Finalists at the 2024 AustStab Awards.
Jed’s passion for the industry goes beyond the projects — it's about people. Featured in a 2016 Roads Online article, he spoke about the power of teamwork and building strong client and stakeholder relationships. More than just a leader, he’s a mentor — always taking the time to support his colleagues and guide the next generation of engineers, ensuring they have the tools and confidence to succeed.
A CULTURE OF MENTORSHIP AND GROWTH
“Jed’s journey with HIWAY has been nothing short of remarkable”, Allen Brown, HIWAY’s Executive GM – Technical & Innovation, said.
Despite his impressive list of professional achievements, it’s Jed’s personality that makes a lasting impression. His natural ability to connect with people, paired with his infectious energy, makes him a leader both in the office and after hours. Whether he’s sharing a beer with colleagues or celebrating a project milestone, Jed’s camaraderie shines through in every interaction. His warmth and enthusiasm create an environment where people feel valued and inspired to do their best.
DRIVEN BY PEOPLE, POWERED BY PURPOSE
When asked what brought him back to HIWAY nearly eight years ago, Jed’s answer is simple: the people.
“I joined HIWAY because of the team — they’re what make this place special. From day one, I knew I wanted to be part of something where the focus wasn’t just on getting the job done, but on supporting each other and doing it well together.”
Jed’s pivotal role in establishing HIWAY in New South Wales, alongside Kenn Hall, deepened his commitment to the company and its people. His passion goes beyond building better roads — he’s dedicated to fostering strong relationships, supporting his team, and making a lasting impact on the industry and those within it.
