Rusty McDonald

Rusty McDonald's entry into the paving industry began with frustration. In 1995, while running an Exxon fuel and lubricants distributorship, he needed asphalt work for his facilities but couldn't get a single contractor to return his calls. Employees at the local asphalt plant suggested he do the work himself under their guidance. The results were impressive - other businesses noticed and started asking who he'd hired. When they learned Rusty had done it himself, AMI Construction was born.
Thirty years later, AMI Construction is a $30 million Nashville-based paving company with 90 employees, zero debt, and consistent 25-30% year-over-year growth. In 2025, the Nashville Business Journal recognized AMI as the 10th fastest growing company in Middle Tennessee, and in 2025 AMI was named a Top 50 contractor nationally in four categories: paving, concrete, sealcoating, and striping.
A Nashville native, Rusty attended Montgomery Bell Academy before playing varsity basketball at Rhodes College, where he was later inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida.
As a GNAA Supplier Director, Rusty has co-chaired the Maintenance, Trade Show, and Membership Committees. AMI specializes in phasing asphalt work to minimize disruption to apartment communities while maintaining exceptional communication with property management - making projects hassle-free and seamless.
Beyond construction, Rusty served as campus pastor at Long Hollow Church (2014-2016) and senior pastor of Hillcrest Community Church (2016-2023). He considers AMI a faith-based company and views his work as an extension of his calling to serve with excellence and integrity.
Rusty and his wife have four children and three grandchildren. He remains intricately involved in every aspect of AMI's operations and welcomes property managers to call him directly to benefit from his three decades of experience.