IQ and IAT Celebrating Excellence
First published in the December 2025 issue of Quarry Management
How recognizing student achievements shapes the future of quarrying and mineral products
Birmingham’s iconic Symphony Hall recently hosted a landmark event for the quarrying, mineral products, and extractives sector. The Institute of Quarrying (IQ) and the Institute of Asphalt Technology (IAT) came together for their annual Student Awards ceremony, now in its second year at this prestigious venue. The occasion united senior industry leaders to celebrate outstanding academic achievement among students studying globally recognized qualifications at the University of Derby’s Centre for Mineral Products.
This event is more than an awards ceremony. It reflects the industry’s deep commitment to education, professional development, and nurturing the next generation of leaders, while honouring the legacy of those who have driven progress.
Why recognition matters
Education underpins operational excellence and innovation in an industry that supports infrastructure and furthers sustainability efforts. Recognizing students who excel sends a powerful message: talent and dedication are valued. Each award acknowledges individuals who have achieved exceptional academic results while balancing work and home life – a true testament to resilience and ambition.
IQ President Ben Williams FIQ summed up the importance of this recognition: ‘We are delighted to have once again co-hosted the Student Awards with the Institute of Asphalt Technology, strengthening our close, cross-sector partnership and promoting talent development within our industries. Each award recipient has demonstrated outstanding dedication, achieving exceptional results in their studies at the University of Derby Centre for Mineral Products. Together with the networks and support from their respective professional membership bodies, they have built a solid foundation on which to build their future careers.’
IAT President Helen Bailey FIQ FIAT added: ‘It’s inspiring to see the commitment and talent of these students being recognized. Their achievements reflect the strength of our industry and the opportunities available for those who work hard and aim high. We are proud to support their journey and look forward to seeing their future contributions.’
IQ Award winners
Joel O’Connor, technical sales manager at Heidelberg Materials – Goodwin Barsby Award for Best Honours Student
Mark Eastment, quarry operator at Tarmac – Reginald W Coles Prize for Best Overall Mineral Extractives Foundation Degree Student
Anna Thomas, co-founder of Stonepack Ltd – Scottish Springbank Quaich Award for Best Third Year Foundation Degree Student
Flynn Crittall, higher apprentice at Holcim UK – The Ransomes Rapier Award for Best Higher Apprentice
Matthew Millson, production supervisor at Sibelco – The Peter Preston Award UK for Best UK Diploma Student
Josh Cahill, quarry supervisor at Breedon – The Peter Preston Award International for Best International Diploma Student
Michael Craven and Zayyan Javid – Longcliffe Calcium Carbonates Awards of Excellence for Years One and Two
Phil Brewer, assistant quarry manager at Cemex – EPC-UK Blasting Award for best performance in the Blasting Operations Module.
A milestone was also marked with the first Diploma in Surface Mining Explosives Engineering Award, presented to Paul Clark, general manager of Arabian Explosives Company. This newly developed diploma covers advanced explosives technology, sustainability, and geotechnical engineering, reflecting the sector’s evolving needs.
IAT Award winners
Eamon Woods – Best Overall Third Year Foundation Degree
David Gibson and John Anderson – Second and Third Place respectively
Zahed Rahman – Best Overall Second Year Foundation Degree
Luke Gascoigne - Barnett – Best Overall First Year Foundation Degree
Jake Murgatroyd – Best Asphalt Diploma Student
Grettel Lianet Collart Flores – Winner of the Contracts & Business Management and Ops Award.
Mark Osbaldeston, head of the Centre for Mineral Products at the University of Derby, highlighted the significance of the awards: ‘This year’s award winners have shown remarkable commitment to their studies and the industry. Balancing academic work with professional responsibilities is no small feat, and their success reflects both determination and passion. These achievements not only strengthen individual careers but also contribute to the future of the mineral products sector. Congratulations to all who have reached this milestone.’
Honouring legacy and inspiring the future
In addition to student awards, IQ conferred two Honorary Fellowships to Paul Calladine FIQ and Andy Morris FIQ (both now Hon FIQ) recognizing their outstanding contributions to the industry. Honorary Fellowships, determined by the IQ Board of Trustees, represent one of the highest honours within the Institute, celebrating individuals whose leadership and dedication have inspired generations – Paul through his involvement with the Institute of Quarrying Benevolent Fund, and Andy through his work on Council, various projects, and other activities.
New this year, IQ introduced the Gordon Temple Award. Gordon was a deeply committed member whose quiet, yet profound influence helped shape the Institute. His humility, dedication, and ability to lead by example left a lasting impact on many.
The award was created to recognize members who have volunteered at branch level and served in one or more key positions over several years. This year, the honour was presented to Kevin Parker FIQ of the IQ Yorkshire branch. Kevin’s many years of dedication and hard work in supporting his branch reflects the values Gordon stood for – commitment to his branch and to IQ as a whole.
Minerals Matter Recognition Awards
The event also featured the Minerals Matter Recognition Awards, celebrating ambassadors who have excelled in school outreach programmes, critical for inspiring young people and addressing future skills gaps. Winners included:
Helen Johnson of Heidelberg Materials – School Outreach Award
Jessica Roberts and Loren Crisp – Collaboration Award
Ben Lepley (SLR Consulting) – Innovation Award
Ceri Travers – Education Award.
Such initiatives demonstrate that education and recognition are not isolated efforts – they are part of a broader strategy to attract talent and sustain industry growth.
100 years of support: The Institute of Quarrying Benevolent Fund
This year’s Fellows’ Lunch and Student Awards carried an extra layer of significance as the Institute of Quarrying Benevolent Fund (IQBF) marked its centenary. Established in 1925, the Fund has stood as a cornerstone of the IQ community, dedicated to supporting members and their dependants during times of hardship.
Over the past century, IQBF has provided vital assistance to those facing unexpected challenges, whether through financial aid, practical support, or simply being a reassuring presence when it matters most.
The centenary celebration was not only a moment to reflect on the Fund’s enduring legacy, but also to reaffirm its ongoing purpose. As the industry evolves, IQBF continues to adapt, ready to offer help whenever and wherever it is needed. This milestone serves as a reminder of the strength of community within the Institute of Quarrying and the shared commitment to care for one another.
A call to action
Celebrating achievement is more than a moment of applause; it is a commitment to shaping a skilled, innovative, and sustainable future. Every award presented at Symphony Hall represents progress for an industry that builds the foundations of society. By honouring excellence today and remembering those who paved the way, we ensure tomorrow’s leaders are ready to meet the challenges ahead.
The quarrying and mineral products sectors thrive on expertise, resilience, and vision. Let us continue to invest in education, support professional development, and celebrate success, because the future of our industry depends on it.
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