Augusta Quarry and Ames Mine earn prestigious honors

Presented annually, the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association’s (NSSGA) Awards of Excellence recognize member companies for outstanding contributions to safety, environmental stewardship and community engagement.

At a mid-September ceremony in Washington, D.C., more than 70 Martin Marietta teams were honored. The company’s crews collected 18 silver and 43 bronze medals, while 10 operations earned gold honors.

Gold awards went to Ames Mine, Anderson Creek Quarry, Augusta Quarry, Belmont Sand and Gravel, Cedar Rapids Quarry, Clarks Quarry, Martin Marietta Marine Operations, Milford Quarry, Perry Quarry and Rocky Point Quarry.

Vice President of Operational Excellence Ronnie Walker, who has nearly 45 years of industry experience, credited the exceptional performance to the company’s culture of hard work and dedication.

“It is no secret we have high standards. Our people constantly go above and beyond in their work,” Walker said. “In the mining world, we are admired for our leadership. Each of these crews has a great selection of ground-level leaders who help them strive.”

The recognition was especially significant for Ames Mine and Augusta Quarry, which each secured their second gold honors in the past five years. As a result of the distinction, NSSGA presented leaders at both sites with a Star of Excellence Award.

In 2025, the crew at Georgia’s Augusta Quarry won gold in safety excellence, following its community relations honor in 2023. Plant Manager Joshua McCorkle said the recognition underscores the team’s commitment to perseverance.

“Augusta Quarry has always been a leader in our industry, and this recognition serves as proof of the hard work and dedication our team has put in over the years,” McCorkle said. “Whether it’s producing quality stone or supporting our local community, the team always strives to achieve its best.”

The team at Ames Mine, located in Iowa, also celebrated its success. Along with its 2025 gold honor in community relations, the team received an environmental recognition in 2024. Regional Production Manager Ryan Bender said the achievement reflects the mine’s strong culture. “This Star of Excellence achievement really highlights the culture that we have here at Ames Mine and one the group really embraces,” Bender said. “They all work so well together; this team is fun to work for.”

Regional Vice President and General Manager Todd Clock agreed, noting the team’s drive for continuous improvement.

“There is a winning mentality here,” Clock said. “If I can sum it up, it’s this: Ames Mine is a group that seeks greatness every day.”

Martin Marietta’s 2025 performance further solidified its reputation as one of the industry’s most decorated and respected operators.