Highlights from the 2022 NSSGA Annual Convention

More than 600 aggregate industry leaders convened in Nashville, Tennessee, for the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association’s (NSSGA) 2022 Annual Convention.

The meeting, themed the “Power of We,” stressed the importance of a united industry following passage of the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act.

“This opportunity for us to meet and share ideas makes the industry better for everyone,” says Darin Matson, president and CEO of Rogers Group, who served as NSSGA chair over the last two years. “By working together, as a united association, we have been able to advance the issues that are at the core of each of our businesses, and those issues go beyond just infrastructure spending.”

The NSSGA Annual Convention included committee meetings, breakout sessions and networking events. One general session presented an NSSGA government affairs team update, followed by a three-part discussion on community engagement, with takeaways to start implementing in local communities. The breakouts were open for all convention attendees and focused on workforce development, permitting reforms and the 2022 political outlook.

“It’s also a great time to discuss the challenges ahead for the industry,” says Mike Johnson, president and CEO of NSSGA. “That is why it’s so important for our members to attend their committee meetings as we conduct the business of the association and seek to address issues they face on a daily basis.”

A CEO roundtable featuring Blue Water Industries’ Ted Baker, Bond Construction Corp.’s Karen Hubacz and Vulcan Materials’ Tom Hill was another component of the convention, filling a ballroom at the host Omni Nashville Hotel.

Wendt award winner

Also at the convention, NSSGA presented Ric Suzio of York Hill Trap Rock Quarry Co. with the 2022 Barry K. Wendt Commitment Award.

“With his personality, leadership skills and dedication to the industry’s success, Ric embodies the characteristics that this award was created for,” Johnson says. “Throughout his career, he has shown an ability to tackle difficult issues and a willingness to take on new challenges, which is to be commended.”

Suzio is currently vice president at York Hill Trap Rock Quarry, having spent 32 years at his family’s business. He participates in the NSSGA Government & Regulatory Affairs Committee and was a past Young Leader Council chair.

Suzio has been chair of the Legislative Committee of the Connecticut Construction Industries Association for more than a decade. According to NSSGA, he has a long history of community service. He served as chairman of the board of the Boys & Girls Club of Meriden and is a Hall of Fame member. 

Suzio is also a recipient of the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce Community Partner Award, and he serves on the board of the Meriden Historical Society and Meriden Economic Development Board.

Astec Industries’ Kevin Gokie, chair of the NSSGA Manufacturers & Services Division, presented the award to Suzio. Kristi Wendt, the daughter of Barry Wendt, attended the ceremony and spoke about her father’s legacy in the aggregate industry.

New NSSGA chair

In yet another convention development, Hubacz was named NSSGA chairwoman. Hubacz serves Bond Construction, a small family-owned producer, as president and CEO.

Hubacz took over as NSSGA chairwoman following two years of leadership from Matson.

“Under Darin Matson’s leadership, with an additional year served, our industry has adapted to succeed during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Johnson says. “I know that Karen will take the reins and continue to guide the association to even bigger heights. Her unique perspective will be essential, as we look to expand upon our strategic membership vision and ensure we are meeting the needs of all sizes of producers.”

Hubacz looks forward to the months ahead as NSSGA chairwoman.

“It wasn’t until I joined NSSGA 14 years ago that I realized I wasn’t alone,” she says. “That there were resources to help me navigate this industry, and that I could be a resource to others – particularly women. There are so many small aggregates companies out there who don’t even realize what they’re missing by not being a [NSSGA] member. I want them to see both the benefits of being part of our association and what they can accomplish by joining with us.”

What’s ahead

NSSGA members will next convene for annual association business Sept. 20-23 in Washington during the annual Legislative & Policy Forum.