Penninger Asphalt Paving Inc is a well known business around Union County and beyond. The big, shiny trucks, branded with the words, “Raised on Blacktop” are a familiar sight on the roads of Southern Illinois. Recently, the UCCEO team was honored to visit Mr. and Mrs. Michael and Amy Penninger and see some of those trucks up close!

Penninger Asphalt was started around 2002 by Michael’s dad, Mr. Brad Penninger. In 2005, Michael stepped up after his dad unexpectedly passed away. Over the past 20ish years, Michael, Amy and their crew have built a strong, successful business that provides services all over Southern Illinois. Their customers include individuals, businesses, IDOT and municipalities.

During our visit, they shared the ups and downs of owning a business. They mentioned many times how important it is to have good employees on your team and how lucky they are to have their people. They believe is being fair, honest and to work hard and feel fortunate to have a team who shares those values.

A big takeaway from The AJ Wildcats Chesnee Marks is this:

“We started our week off at Penninger Asphalt with Mrs. Amy and Mr. Micheal Penniger. I was very excited to go on this visit because I have known Mr. and Mrs. Penninger for a very long time!

Throughout the visit they both shared many amazing pieces of advice, but it was something that Micheal said that stuck out to me. He said that you never know where life is going to take you.

I can especially relate to this because around this time last year we were the ones applying to CEO. The reason I bring this up, is because I was unsure about applying. Looking back now, I am so thankful that I did apply because this past year has been so much fun. I have loved every visit and team meeting that we have had and couldn't trade what I have learned in this program for anything!

I think that it is so important to remember that you never know where life is going to take you. I think that this also resonated with me because I am going to be moving twelve hours away for college in just five months. If CEO has taught me anything it is that there is always an opportunity where you look for it, and that opportunity could be what changes your life.”

Michael and Amy were very open about how important Union County is to them and how they appreciate the opportunity to give back to their community and the local businesses here. The UCCEO program is thankful to be a part of their giving back as Penninger Asphalt is an Investor in our program.

Thank you Michael and Amy, for an awesome experience, a delicious breakfast and for investing in the Union County CEO program! We had a great time and appreciate you and Penninger Asphalt.