The NSSGA has shown its support for the next generation of young leaders in the quarrying and aggregates sector by hosting its annual meet-up for the cohort.
More than 380 young leaders have attended the annual young leaders meet-up hosted by the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA).
Held from April 12 to 15, the annual event featured a series of engaging activities, including keynote speeches, networking opportunities, and community service activities.
The event’s first general session included a series of presentations for attendees, with keynote speakers including Wally Adamchick from FireStarter Speaking and Consulting, Mark Helm and Leland Meiser from Dolese Bros. Co, NSSGA president and chief executive officer Michele Stanley and Manufacturers and Services Division immediate past chair Craig Lamarque.
The second general session included interesting keynotes from Vulcan Materials Company chief executive officer Ronnie Pruitt and retired USMC officer Dave Berke, who spoke on combat leadership and creating winning teams. The breakout sessions covered professional development and workplace technology adaptation.
This year saw the debut of the BuildHer Lunch and Learn, which is aimed at supporting women in the aggregates sector.
Attendees enjoyed a keynote speech from Stanley about her experiences in the sector and her journey as an industry leader.
Clay Albright from Rogers Group Inc’s Caldwell Stone Quarry was awarded the prestigious Mark S. Walsh Annual Leadership Award.
On the event’s final night, outgoing young leaders chair Chad Weems from Martin Marietta handed over the leadership to Gulf Coast Sand’s Ryan Morales, with Rogers Group Inc’s Thabiso Bolebano appointed as the vice chair.
The NSSGA has confirmed the next Young Leaders annual meeting will be held in Hilton Head, South Carolina, from April 25–28, 2027.
“The Young Leaders Annual Meeting showcases how important young professionals are to the aggregates industry,” Stanley said.
“These men and women in attendance are the future, and we value their engagement.
“This event creates a dynamic meeting environment to stimulate their passion for the industry.”
New appointment
The NSSGA has confirmed Jo Anne Cowan has been promoted to the new position of vice president for meetings and membership.
Cowan started with the organisation in 2023 and, during that time, has been credited with improving the membership experience for NSSGA members.
In her new role, Cowan will have an expanded remit to lead the NSSGA’s annual events, meetings and membership activities. Cowan has more than two decades of industry experience in event and meeting delivery, including a previous stint at the US Chamber of Commerce.
“This is an exciting time at NSSGA, as we fill out our staff leadership,” Stanley said.
“We are thrilled to have Jo Anne lead NSSGA’s meetings and membership team. She has proven to be a collaborative leader in putting together high-quality events.” AB
