SPRINGFIELD, IL — Now in the seventh year, the goal of the Industry Leadership Award is to recognize Illinois Association of Aggregate Producers (IAAP) member companies and individuals that have demonstrated leadership excellence within the mining industry, and whose contributions to the IAAP and industry are significant and long lasting.

Holcim was honored during the IAAP Convention with this year’s Industry Leadership Award for evolving and strengthening their commitment to the Illinois aggregates industry after quickly establishing a footprint in the state.

“Over the years, Holcim has become one of the most steadfast supporters of the IAAP attending and sponsoring events, supporting the Political Action Committee, sponsoring teachers to attend the IAAP’s Rocks, Minerals & Mining in Today’s Society workshops, and community events near their mining operations,” said IAAP President, Alan Shoemaker.

Holcim employees actively serve on IAAP member committees. Becky Kazmierski chairs the IAAP’s Public Information and Education Committee and Angela Nickel chairs the IAAP’s Safety Committee. Jack Keeler and Dan Larson serve on the IAAP’s Education Foundation Committee.

Employees from Holcim play active roles in outreach activities and interact with community-based organizations. Holcim employees and sites are also featured in the Let’s Rock Illinois workforce program. Each year, Holcim and its employees have received numerous safety, environmental, and community relations awards from IAAP.

The company’s leader, Jack Keeler, remains a long-time, active IAAP board member, and served as President from 2020 to 2022. He challenged board members to support and address the need to encourage students to explore careers in this industry, then helped to ensure the development of the Let’s Rock Illinois campaign.