Progress, priorities, and the path ahead
As we approach the halfway point of the year, it is remarkable how quickly time has passed. Reflecting on the months behind us, 2025 has already proven to be a dynamic and productive year, with a diverse range of initiatives well under way.
In my role as President, alongside my core professional responsibilities, I have the privilege of travelling both across the UK and internationally. These experiences offer a valuable perspective and insights, not only on the progress we have made but also into the many opportunities that lie ahead for the Institute of Quarrying (IQ) to grow and continue supporting our industry.
As an organization, we strike a careful balance between driving new initiatives and staying focused on our core charitable objectives. This year we are supporting key developments and standards within the sector, while enhancing the value we deliver to members.
For those working within the extractives industry, training and skills development have long been cornerstones of professional competence. A central element of this is the Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) qualifications, particularly at levels four and six. Last year, the National Occupational Standards (NOS) underpinning these qualifications were revised to reflect the evolving nature of our work – especially in areas such as sustainability and leadership. Led by the Mineral Products Qualifications Council (MPQC), this work is now progressing to update the qualifications in line with the new standards.
These qualifications are essential for many IQ members, and in the coming months there will be opportunities for you to contribute your expertise to this development process. I see this as an important moment for us to help shape the future of our profession. The Institute will keep you updated, and I strongly encourage all members to participate and share their perspectives.
Looking ahead to the second half of the year, IQ will be launching several new tools and resources to support our members. These include guidance documents on Environmental Management Systems (EMS), soils management, and access to a selection of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Select units.
The CPD Select units offer flexible, micro-learning sessions that allow members to either build new knowledge or refresh their understanding in key industry areas. These sessions are designed to complement in-person learning opportunities through our branch network and to support members in meeting their CPD requirements, fitting around both professional and personal commitments.
Additionally, the IQ board has established a working group to review our membership offer and explore how we can better meet the evolving needs of our community. In the coming months, we will be reaching out to members to gather feedback and input as part of this important process.
We began the year with strong momentum, and I have no doubt this pace will continue through the rest of 2025 and beyond. As your President, I remain committed to ensuring we continuously challenge ourselves as an organization to deliver real value to our members and to the wider industry we serve.
Ben Williams
