Previewing the NSSGA Annual Convention

The NSSGA Annual Convention, last held in-person in 2020, returns this month to Nashville, Tennessee. Photo: NSSGA

The National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) Annual Convention returns in-person March 27-30 to the Omni Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee.

After last year’s event went digital due to COVID-19, NSSGA members are excited about the opportunity for a face-to-face meeting.

“As this is the first in-person Annual Convention since 2020, we are excited to be together in one place,” says Jen Dugas, vice president of membership and events at NSSGA. “I know the city of Nashville is ready to host us. With both NSSGA’s 2022 Annual Convention and the AGG1 Academy & Expo, it’s going to be a great week and experience for members.”

2022 marks the second time Nashville’s Omni Hotel will host the convention. The convention also took place there in 2016.

“We are seeing strong attendance numbers so far,” Dugas says. “This is due to our strong agenda and is, of course, a true testament to our members who are excited to reunite in-person for this meeting. New this year to the Annual Convention schedule are separate breakout sessions happening throughout the meeting that will address issues we’ve heard are most important to our members.”

Dugas

Additional events

Other components of the NSSGA Annual Convention are the Young Leaders 5K, a tour of Rogers Group’s Gallatin Quarry and the Young Leaders Luncheon.

According to Dugas, NSSGA aims to incorporate a quarry tour into the convention whenever possible. The Gallatin Quarry will provide most attendees a glimpse at an operation outside of their usual environment.

“Rogers Group’s Gallatin Quarry has transitioned from being in a rural town to a suburban setting surrounded by residential and commercial growth,” Dugas says. “To maximize the natural resources for decades to come amidst a growing community, Rogers Group is transitioning mining operations on the site from open pit to underground over the next couple years. We chose this quarry as Rogers Group is headquartered [in Nashville] and NSSGA’s chair, Darin Matson, is with Rogers Group.”

Other convention highlights include an update on NSSGA’s new workforce development taskforce, an overview on permitting improvements led by Permitting Institute’s Alex Herrgott, and a 2022 political outlook.

“This meeting is essential for our membership since it brings everyone together each year to conduct the business of our association,” Dugas says. “It provides the opportunity to hear from dynamic speakers, as well as enjoy the opportunity to network and grow closer. Through this forum, it is really our goal to address critical topics that face our members and provide new insight into these challenges.”