When extreme weather hits, Future Roads Rising Star Award nominee Nick Brewer is already ahead of it.
As asset information and systems manager at HEB Construction, Brewer has developed cutting-edge GIS tools that are transforming how councils and contractors respond to emergencies, protect communities and manage infrastructure.
Brewer's journey began with hands-on experience - nine years in pipelaying - before earning a degree in environmental science and specialising in GIS. That blend of practical knowledge and technical expertise has made him a standout innovator in the roading sector.
The GIS-based emergency response app he created is used by the Christchurch, Selwyn and Marlborough councils. During the Selwyn floods in May, the app tracked more than 1000 faults in 48 hours, helping emergency teams prioritise repairs and warn residents.
The data supported a successful $13 million emergency funding application.
In Marlborough, the app logged 3456 faults in two weeks and contributed to a $283 million recovery programme.
Brewer's commitment to public service is clear: he shares the app freely across the industry, including with competitors.
"We maintain these roads for the communities and the people who drive on them," he says. That ethos has earned him respect across councils, contractors and industry bodies.
Beyond emergencies, Brewer has tackled seasonal safety challenges.
Marlborough's grape harvest brings heavy traffic and frequent spills, creating hazardous conditions. Brewer developed a QR-coded GIS mapping system that tracks spill hotspots and roadworks, helping drivers avoid danger zones.
The initiative, developed with NZTA, NZ Police and Marlborough Wine, halved grape spills between 2023 and 2025 and won the 2024 NZ Workplace Health and Safety Award for Collaboration.
Innovation is central to Brewer's role.
He's built AI-integrated QA systems that automatically identify and rectify faults and improve data accuracy.
His gravel road grading tracker, developed with input from Fonterra and grader operators, ensures timely maintenance and safer rural roads. His presentation on this system won best presenter at the 2024 RIMS Conference.
Brewer's leadership extends beyond HEB.
He mentors staff, trains council teams and serves on the REAAA climate change, resilience and disaster management technical committee. He co-organised the Low Volume Roads Conference, coordinating field demonstrations and technical sessions.
His personal attributes - resilience, empathy and a people-first mindset - shine through in every initiative. Whether responding to a flood at dawn or collaborating with iwi to protect mahinga kai areas, Brewer leads with integrity and care.
Brewer isn't just building systems - he's building trust, safety and smarter ways to serve communities. His work exemplifies the rising star spirit, making him a driving force in the future of New Zealand's roading industry.
The roading industry Rising Star Award is for the standout person aged under 40 in the New Zealand roading sector, defined by their achievements during their career to-date. It is awarded annually at the Future Roads conference dinner. There are four finalists for 2025. See more here.
The New Zealand roading industry Rising Star Award is sponsored by Jacobs.