Alyssa McAfee, Field Trainer I, based out of Western Pennsylvania, is known for her steady leadership, strong work ethic, and commitment to helping others succeed. Her story with Flagger Force is one of resilience, growth, and passion for doing work that truly makes a difference.
Before joining Flagger Force, Alyssa worked in various roles, from retail to restaurant management, but wanted something with more structure and opportunity to grow. “I liked that this job was different every day,” she said. “I wanted to challenge myself, and I wanted to do something I could take pride in.”
She joined Flagger Force in 2021, stepping into the field as a Crew Member. Like many others, her first week was a whirlwind. “It was a lot to take in,” Alyssa recalls with a laugh. “There’s so much to learn, but I had great people around me who wanted to see me do well.” That sense of teamwork and support would become one of the things she values most about her career.
After spending time in the field and learning the ropes, Alyssa briefly left the company before realizing something important: Flagger Force had become more than a job. “I missed the people, and I missed the structure,” she said. “You realize how rare it is to work somewhere where people genuinely care about you, and I wanted to come back.”
When she rejoined, she was determined to grow. She advanced into the Special Equipment Operator (SEO) driver position and took every opportunity to develop her skills, taking on jobs in different markets, including Maryland, Delaware, and Indiana. “Traveling to new regions has been one of my favorite parts,” she shared. I enjoy seeing Flagger Force operating in new states, and it’s a chance to learn something new while helping other teams.”
That mindset of learning and helping others hasn’t gone unnoticed. Earlier this year, Alyssa was recognized as Employee of the Month for her work in Indiana for her reliability and leadership on the job. “It felt really good to be acknowledged,” she said. “I take a lot of pride in doing things the right way, and it meant a lot to know that others see that too.”
For Alyssa, leadership isn’t about giving orders. It’s about setting the tone. “I always tell my crew, if you’re not sure about something, ask. There’s no shame in learning. We’re all here to keep each other safe and make sure the job gets done right.”
She’s known for her preparedness and calmness under pressure, often reminding others that safety starts with mindset. “You have to be focused, even when things get hectic,” she said. “That’s how you earn trust from your crew, from your clients, and from yourself.”
When asked what advice she’d share with new employees, Alyssa doesn’t hesitate: “Stick with it. It’s not always easy, but if you show up, listen, and keep learning, you’ll go far. There’s so much opportunity here if you’re willing to work for it.”
For Alyssa, the most rewarding part of her job is seeing others grow. “When someone I’ve worked with gets promoted or starts leading a crew, that’s what makes it worth it,” she said. “It’s a great feeling knowing you played a small part in someone else’s success.”
MORE ABOUT ALYSSA
What do you like to do in your free time?
“I like learning a little bit about everything. In my free time I tinker and have titled myself a “jack of all trades.”
Who do you admire most?
“My grandmother, who raised me. She taught me to be strong-willed and to believe I can achieve anything I set my mind to.”
What’s a piece of advice you live by?
“Whoosah, or in other words—take a deep breath to relax, and this will help you remain calm.”
What’s does this job mean to you?
“I like the work I do for Flagger Force. It means a lot to get paid for work I enjoy.”
