The Carolinas Ready Mixed Concrete Association is proud to announce the newest cohort of the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program. This year’s class represents a dynamic mix of producer and associate members, reflecting the wide range of roles and perspectives that make up today’s concrete industry.

Designed to develop the next generation of industry leaders, the Emerging Leaders Program brings together professionals who are eager to grow their skills, broaden their understanding of the industry, and make a lasting impact within their companies and communities. The 2026 cohort embodies that spirit, with participants driven by a shared commitment to leadership, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Many members of this year’s class expressed a strong desire to lead by example and elevate industry standards. As Sutton Stanley of Southern Concrete Materials shared, “I want to take on greater responsibility, expand my knowledge, and develop the leadership skills that will allow me to support my team and contribute to the success of every project. My goal is to continue pushing forward, not just for career advancement, but to become someone who leads by example and helps elevate the standards of the industry as a whole.”

Others are motivated by a passion for understanding the industry from start to finish. Kenny Settle of Stevenson-Weir/Southern LLC noted his interest in the full lifecycle of concrete production, saying, “I enjoy understanding the full process, from materials and batching to production, mix designs, quality control, customer service, and order scheduling. The industry is constantly evolving with new technologies, equipment, and material changes.”

Sustainability and innovation also emerged as key themes among the group. Eleodoro Aldana of Sunrock Industries LLC emphasized a commitment to progress, sharing, “I seek to explore better processes, sustainable materials, and solutions that improve efficiency in all aspects. I am committed to leveraging this opportunity not only for personal growth but also to create a positive impact on the industry I am passionate about.”

For many participants, the program is about strengthening the industry’s role in building communities. Saxton Nicholson of Hydro-Innovations highlighted the broader impact of the trade, stating, “I am motivated to better the concrete industry because it is a foundational trade that impacts communities, infrastructure, and everyday life. I want to help raise standards through better craftsmanship, innovation, and professionalism, while showing that quality, durability, and integrity still matter.”

The value of connection and collaboration is another cornerstone of the Emerging Leaders experience. Brent Nelson of Knight’s Redi-Mix shared, “I value every opportunity to acquire knowledge and foster connections with mentors, colleagues, and instructors to cultivate new skills and relationships, and the CRMCA provides an excellent platform for these endeavors.”

The cohort also reflects a wide range of experience levels, reinforcing that leadership development is a lifelong process. As Bob Cooper of Amrize put it, “No matter your age or experience, there is always room for personal growth and leadership development. This program will give me an opportunity to work side by side with other individuals within the concrete industry.”

Participants are equally focused on sharpening leadership skills that translate into real-world results. Matt Helton of Master Builders Solutions noted, “Strengthening my leadership capabilities allows me to think more strategically, communicate more effectively, and positively influence outcomes more effectively.” Danielle George of Concrete Supply Co. echoed this commitment to growth, sharing, “I am motivated to continue improving my technical knowledge, decision-making skills, and understanding of the different leadership styles that have had and continue to have a direct impact on my personal growth.”

CRMCA is excited to support and learn alongside this impressive group as they progress through the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and dedication signal a strong future for the concrete industry across the Carolinas.