It is a tremendous honour to write my first column as President of the Institute of Quarrying. I take on this responsibility with pride, humility, and real excitement about what we can achieve together.
I would like to begin by recognising everyone who has contributed to the Institute’s success. That includes our members, past and present, our staff, current and former Board members, Council representatives, branch officers, and the many volunteers who give their time and expertise. The strength of IQ has always come from its people, and it is important that we recognise everyone who has helped shape the Institute we know today.
I also want to thank Ben Williams for his leadership and commitment as President. He has strengthened IQ’s focus on competence, professional development and collaboration, and I look forward to building on those foundations. I am equally pleased to welcome Dr Helen Bailey as IQ’s first female Chair. This is an important milestone, and the growing diversity of our Board brings valuable experience, perspectives and ideas to the leadership and direction of the Institute.
I have worked in this industry for 32 years, beginning my career as an apprentice engineer at Aggregate Industries (now Holcim), and now Managing Director of Sibelco UK. I have had the opportunity to work with so many great people, across many companies and areas of the minerals industry including Aggregates, Lime, Asphalt, Concrete, as well as industrial minerals such as Silica, Ball Clays, Kaolin’s, Nepheline Syenite and even Anthracite Coal. I have seen the multitude of opportunities our sector provides, with even more to come as we evolve.
My experience demonstrates to me that our industry is at its best when we invest in people, share knowledge and remain open to change. We are currently experiencing a difficult period, with considerable uncertainty and disruption affecting businesses and individuals. However, these challenges should be viewed in the context of our long history.
Founded in 1917, IQ is now in its 109th year. During that time, our profession and Institute have navigated many periods of economic, social, and technological change. That history should give us confidence. It reminds us that resilience is built through leadership, competence, and collaboration.
A particularly exciting example of collaboration is the reopening of the Derbyshire Eco Centre at Middleton-by-Wirksworth. Following a successful community-led campaign, supported by a partnership between the Derbyshire Eco Centre Community Interest Company and IQ, the Centre will once again provide sustainability education, community activities, and skills training.
Its location alongside the National Stone Centre creates an exciting opportunity to connect industry, education, and the community. It also demonstrates what can be achieved when local people, professional organisations and partners unite around a shared purpose.
I am equally looking forward to my official inauguration and first presidential address at the Fellows Lunch and Student Awards 2026, taking place at Symphony Hall, Birmingham, on Friday 6 November. Hosted with the Institute of Asphalt Technology, the event will celebrate professional excellence, student achievement, and emerging talent from across our sectors.
As I begin my presidency, my commitment is to listen, engage and serve. By drawing on our 109-year history, embracing a broader range of voices, and investing in the people who will shape our future, I am confident that we can successfully navigate the challenges ahead.
I look forward to building this next chapter with you.
Ben Uphill FIQ
President, Institute of Quarrying