IQ & IAT Student Awards Celebrate Excellence in Quarrying and Asphalt Technology
Every industry has its moments of recognition, and for the quarrying and asphalt sectors, that moment arrived with flair at the iconic Symphony Hall in Birmingham.
The grand event marked the 2024 IQ & IAT Student Awards, an annual gathering to honour the outstanding achievements of students from the University of Derby Centre for Mineral Products.
The atmosphere was charged with excitement as industry veterans, young professionals, and leaders from the Institute of Quarrying (IQ) and Institute of Asphalt Technology (IAT) came together to celebrate the next generation of talent.
Nurturing Future Leaders in Mineral Products and Asphalt Technology
This year’s awards ceremony was graciously sponsored by EPC-UK and Quarry Design Land Minerals Consulting Ltd. These accolades serve as more than just a pat on the back—they’re a testament to the hard work, dedication, and academic prowess of individuals balancing demanding careers with rigorous studies. By recognising top performers in industry-standard qualifications, the event highlights the critical role education plays in shaping the future of the mineral products sector.
As Ben Williams, FIQ, President of the Institute of Quarrying, eloquently put it: “We’re delighted to have co-hosted the awards with the Institute of Asphalt Technology, solidifying our cross-sector partnership. Each recipient has shown unwavering commitment, achieving remarkable results at the University of Derby Centre for Mineral Products.” This partnership not only strengthens ties between the two institutes but also serves as a beacon of support for upcoming professionals.
The Stars of the Show
The winners’ list reads like a roll call of future industry leaders. Each of them not only excelled academically but also showcased a deep passion for their chosen fields:
- Adam Baker, TMIQ: Awarded the Goodwin Barsby Award for Best Honours Student. As a Technical Sales and Support Specialist at Tarmac, Adam exemplifies how combining technical expertise with sales acumen can drive the industry forward.
- Haydn Griffiths, MIQ: Recognised with the Reginald W Coles Prize for Best Overall Foundation Degree Student. As a Quarry Manager at Heidelberg Materials, his leadership and knowledge shine through in both his academic and professional pursuits.
- Daniel Penny: The Higher Apprentice at Aggregate Industries UK won the Ransomes Rapier Award for Best Mineral Extractives Apprentice, proving that apprenticeships can be a gateway to a thriving career.
- Sallie Antill, MIQ: With her role as Principal Engineer at Aberdeenshire Council, she bagged the Peter Preston Award for Best UK Diploma Student—a testament to her ability to juggle high-level responsibilities while pursuing academic excellence.
Each of these awards, accompanied by a £200 cheque, recognises the individual’s efforts to not just meet but exceed industry expectations.
A Salute to Excellence in Asphalt Studies
The asphalt sector was not left behind in the celebrations. The IAT awards spotlighted students who stood out in their Foundation Degree courses:
- Kieran Watson & Paula Millward: Joint first prize winners for Best Overall Third Year Foundation Degree.
- Emma Green: Winner of the Best Asphalt Diploma Student Award and the prestigious Worshipful Company of Paviors Award for Contracts & Business Management.
- Alistair Burgess: Awarded Best Higher Apprentice for his work with FM Conway, underscoring the impact of practical learning in career advancement.
IAT President Gearoid Lohan proudly remarked: “These awards reflect the hard work and dedication of students who are poised to take on leadership roles in our industries. We are honoured to celebrate their achievements alongside IQ.”
Beyond the Classroom: Recognising Community Engagement and Outreach
This year’s ceremony also witnessed the inaugural Minerals Matter Awards. Focused on outreach and education, these awards celebrated those who’ve gone the extra mile to attract fresh talent into the mineral products industry:
- Linzi McDade, Geology Manager at Breedon, received the School Outreach Award for her efforts in inspiring students to consider careers in geology.
- Hazen Bowskill, Quarry Operations Manager at Aggregate Industries, was lauded for his Community Outreach initiatives at Heights Quarry.
- The Company Commitment Award was presented to Heidelberg Materials UK for their continued support in promoting industry careers.
A Lifelong Commitment to Learning
One of the highlights was the recognition of Chris Rowan, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Derby Centre for Mineral Products, for his long-standing contributions to education in the field. His passion for teaching has inspired countless students to pursue excellence.
The Institute of Quarrying, with its global reach, and the IAT have long championed the need for continuous learning. These institutes believe that professional development shouldn’t stop at university graduation. Instead, it’s an ongoing journey involving conferences, technical meetings, and hands-on workshops that keep industry professionals at the top of their game.
Building a Bright Future Together
The annual IQ & IAT Awards are more than just a gathering; they’re a symbol of collaboration, inspiration, and the drive to nurture the industry’s next generation. By recognising exceptional talent, the institutes are not just celebrating past achievements but also paving the way for a more sustainable and innovative future.
The winners of this year’s awards are set to make their mark, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the industry. As the event wrapped up amidst applause and congratulations, it was clear that the future of quarrying and asphalt technology is in capable hands.
