Building More Than Roads: Jed Martin’s Journey With HIWAY

Growing up in Auckland, Jed was a dedicated sailor and a member of the New Zealand Olympic Yachting Squad, with aspirations to one day represent his country in the prestigious America’s Cup. While pursuing this goal, he worked on a backup plan, thanks to the wise words from his mum. After attending various career expos and fairs, he repeatedly encountered the field of Civil Engineering. With a strong aptitude for both mathematics and science and inspired by the fact that America’s Cup skipper Russell Coutts was also an engineer, Jed recognised Civil Engineering as a fitting career path — and so, the rest was history.

Graduating from the University of Auckland in 2009 with a first-class honours degree in Civil Engineering, Jed has built an impressive career spanning over 18 years in the pavement stabilisation and civil construction industry. With a diploma in project management complementing his academic background, Jed has established himself as an expert in his field, showcasing a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovative solutions that place the community and environment at the forefront. Always ahead of the game, at just 28 years of age Jed was already talking about sustainability as Young Stabiliser of the Year back in 2016.

Jed has played a pivotal role in growing HIWAY Group, from its inception to becoming an industry leader across Australasia. His dedication to nurturing a collaborative team environment has fostered a culture of continuous improvement and innovation amongst peers, where every team member is empowered to contribute to the company's success.

Over the years, Jed has led several high-profile projects that demonstrate his expertise and leadership. Notably, the Hornsby Junction Rail Remodelling in 2017 earned HIWAY an Ausstab Award in 2018, and his oversight of the Ballina Bypass's 11 stages in 2018 further showcased his precision. On the Inland Rail Project, Jed coordinated the largest stabilisation job in Australia at the time, spanning 150km from Parkes to Narromine. His work on the Sydney Gateway Project was a game-changer, with HIWAY's use of lime and cement combinations reducing landfill and raw material costs, earning another Ausstab Award in 2023. At the Wollar Solar Farm, a 2024 Ausstab finalist, Jed’s innovative redesign saved materials, time, and environmental impact by reusing existing gravel.

In a 2016 Roads Online article highlighting his passion for the industry, Jed expressed his belief in the power of teamwork and the importance of building strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. He has proven that he is not just a leader, but also a mentor, taking the time to guide and support his colleagues and younger team members, ensuring that the next generation of professionals have the tools, confidence and support they need to thrive.

“Jed’s journey with HIWAY has been nothing short of remarkable”, Allen Brown, HIWAY’s Executive GM – Technical & Innovation, said. “His growth from an ambitious young engineer to a respected leader in the industry speaks to his drive and dedication. But beyond his technical expertise, what truly sets him apart is his ability to foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork within the HIWAY family. Jed leads by example, always taking the time to mentor the younger team members, helping them grow into their potential. He embodies our collective drive to not only improve the business but to make a real difference in the industry and the communities we serve”.

Despite his impressive list of professional accolades, it’s Jed’s personality that leaves a lasting impression. With a natural ability to bring people together, his bubbly and fun-loving nature ensures he’s not only a leader in the office but also the life of the party after hours. Whether it’s sharing a beer with colleagues or celebrating a project milestone, Jed’s positive energy and approachable nature make him a valued presence both on and off the job.

When asked why he chose HIWAY nearly eight years ago, Jed doesn’t hesitate: it’s 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.” His pivotal role in establishing HIWAY in New South Wales has only deepened his commitment to the company and its people, continuing to drive his passion for creating a positive impact across the industry.

Jed’s story is a testament to the power of passion, collaboration, and unwavering commitment. As he continues to pave the way for future generations of engineers, Jed remains an impressive example of how one individual’s dedication can transform both an organisation and the broader industry.