A Well-Deserved Honor

Wayne Nielson, longtime leader of Nielson Construction, was inducted into the Utah Asphalt Pavement Association (UAPA) Hall of Fame during the UAPA Conference in February 2026, recognizing his decades of contributions to the construction and paving industries. 

Wayne’s story began alongside his father, John C. Nielson, who founded the business after World War II with a $400 Army-surplus bulldozer, clearing irrigation ditches for local farms. After joining the family business, Wayne identified opportunities to support the growing power and mining industries in central Utah. Through steady growth, diversification and a commitment to meeting customer needs, he helped transform Nielson Construction into a leading regional contractor and the largest locally owned employer in Carbon and Emery counties. 

Despite the company’s growth, Wayne remained committed to a simple philosophy: take care of employees and customers and they will take care of you. His hands-on leadership, focus on safety and genuine care for people helped shape the culture that continues to define Nielson Construction today. 

Now operating under its third generation of family leadership, the company continues to build on the foundation John established and Wayne expanded. 

Humbled by the recognition, Wayne credits his success to God, his family and the many employees who contributed to the company’s journey. His legacy is not only the business he helped build but also the people, communities and values he has influenced along the way. 

Congratulations to Wayne on this well-deserved honor and thank you for your lasting impact on Nielson Construction and the industry.