The NSSGA has highlighted the achievements and careers of the industry’s best and brightest at its national convention in Las Vegas.
The National Sand, Stone & Gravel Association (NSSGA) has kicked off a busy year in the quarrying and aggregates sector with its 2026 annual convention in Las Vegas, which was attended by more than 700 professionals.
The event, held in conjunction with the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association’s (NRMCA) annual convention, included committee meetings, breakouts and receptions and a joint general session with keynote speaker and famed football legend Terry Bradshaw.
“Our annual convention is an ideal opportunity for members to connect and learn from others in the industry,” NSSGA president and chief executive officer Michele Stanley said.
“Holding this meeting jointly allows us to be efficient and shape a united policy message to take back to Washington, DC.”
Over the three days, several key NSSGA events were held, including the NSSGA board of directors’ meeting and the annual membership meeting, the approval of NSSGA leadership, and award presentations. Attendees also enjoyed a keynote speech from artificial intelligence expert Jon Lakefish.
McLanahan and Eagle Iron Works vice president Mark Krause was recognised with the 2026 Barry K. Wendt Memorial Commitment Award during the annual membership meeting.
NSSGA’s Manufacturers & Services (M&S) Division established the award in 1998 to annually recognise an industry professional who exemplifies the dedication of Barry Wendt, both in commitment to the industry and to the community in which they live. This award is the most distinguished individual award presented by the NSSGA.
“I was lucky to have some great mentors in my early years, with Barry Wendt being my biggest influence. To receive this award, which carries the name of Barry Wendt, is a true honour,” Krause said.
Krause has worked in the aggregates sector for more than four decades across several roles, including production, dealerships and manufacturing.
NSSGA immediate past M&S chair Craig Lamarque said Krause’s passion for the NSSGA was unmatched as was his role as an educator and mentor within the sector.
“Mark is a leader in the industry known for his commitment to innovation and the continuous improvement of equipment and processes,” he said.
“His [Krause’s] dedication and ability to connect with others of all levels have made him a respected figure in the industry.”
Also, during the annual membership meeting, Zach Green was announced as the 2026 chair of the NSSGA board. Green has 26 years of leadership experience across the Colas Group. He has guided major divisions, including Barrett Industries, Reeves Construction, HRI, IA, and Delta Companies, leading large civil‑infrastructure operations across multiple states. Outgoing board chair Ted Baker II of Blue Water Industries handed over the gavel to Green after presenting the 2025 State of the Association.
“It’s an honour to serve as NSSGA’s next board chair,” Green said.
“This association matters, not just in Washington, but back home in every state and community where our members operate, employ people, and supply the materials that quite literally build America.”
The NSSGA’s M&S Division announced that Superior Industries’ Kristen Randall would be its new chair in 2026. Rich Evangelista of Bunting Magnetics Co was announced as the 2026 M&S vice chair.
Randall takes over from outgoing chair Lamarque, who presented her with the gavel during the M&S members’ dinner.
Randall joined Superior Industries in 2023 to lead the launch of OptimizeU, the company’s industry learning and development initiative. She previously held a senior marketing role at Haver & Boecker and brings more than 20 years of experience in the aggregates industry. Randall helped to establish the NSSGA M&S workforce development subcommittee through her involvement with the M&S executive committee over the past few years.
“Our M&S members are a vital part of our association’s success. They develop innovative processes and build key relationships, which increase our industry footprint,” Stanley said.
“I am confident that Kristen’s industry experience and leadership background will help the division grow to new heights.”
Later this year, NSSGA members will convene for another key event, the NSSGA Legislative & Policy Forum, in Washington, DC, from September 20–23. AB
For more information on upcoming NSSGA meetings and events, visit www.nssga.org.
