The National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) convened its 2025 Annual Young Leaders Meeting in Savannah, Ga. The meeting, held April 27 – 30, attracted more than 370 participants from across the country. Attendees heard from industry leaders; participated in community service activities; and welcomed their new committee leadership.
At the event, the Mark S. Walsh Award, sponsored by Rock Products, was presented to Franz Peters, Martin Marietta Materials, by Managing Editor Josephine Patterson.
This award is given to an aggregates industry member for their career and involvement with Young Leaders. It is named for the late Mark S. Walsh, who was comptroller of National Stone Association producer member Rein, Shultz and Dahl of Illinois. He was an energetic and enthusiastic supporter of the mission, purpose and activities of Young Leaders and an active member of the Young Leaders Steering Committee.
“Rock Products is proud to once again sponsor the Mark S. Walsh Award,” said Rock Products Editor Mark S. Kuhar. “We appreciate and support everything the Young Leaders represent. Franz has been an integral part of the group for many years, and is well deserving of this recognition.”
During the first general session, attendees heard from keynote speakers Lisa Ryan, Grategy, and Marvin Woodie, Conn-Weld Industries LLC, who both shared insights and tips on becoming industry leaders. Tuesday’s general session featured keynotes from retired Army Colonel Jimmy Blackmon and NSSGA Board Chair Ted Baker, Blue Water Industries. Multiple breakout sessions were also offered on topics such as advocacy, professional development and efficiency in the workplace.
“The Young Leaders program is one of the many ways for younger members to get involved with NSSGA,” said NSSGA Interim CEO Michele Stanley. “The Annual Meeting provides a unique environment for our younger industry professionals to meet and learn from each other while developing their career skills. They can take home the lessons learned to ultimately become more effective advocates for the aggregates industry.”
Meeting attendees also toured the Port of Savannah; networked with fellow participants during Dine-Arounds; volunteered in a selection of community service projects; and competed in the annual golf tournament.
On the last evening of the meeting, outgoing Chair Brendan Devereaux, Summit Materials, passed the gavel to Chad Weems, Martin Marietta. It was also announced that the 2026 NSSGA Young Leaders meeting will be held April 12- 15, 2026, in Destin, Fla.