NSSGA Announces Chair Karen Hubacz and 2022 Barry K. Wendt Commitment Award Ric Suzio

During the second general session of the 2022 Annual Convention, the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) NSSGA outgoing Chair Darin Matson of Rogers Group, Inc. handed off the gavel to the association’s first Chairwoman Karen Hubacz, president & CEO of Bond Construction.

The full slate of 2022 Executive Committee Members, Officers and Board Members were additionally announced.

NSSGA also presented Ric Suzio of York Hill Trap Rock Quarry Co., Inc with the 2022 Barry K. Wendt Commitment Award.

Karen Hubacz Named as 2022 Board Chair of NSSGA

“Under Darin Matson’s leadership, with an additional year served, our industry has adapted to succeed during the COVID-19 pandemic. I know that Karen will take the reins and continue to guide the association to even bigger heights,” said NSSGA President & CEO Mike Johnson. “Her unique perspective will be essential, as we look to expand upon our strategic membership vision and ensure we are meeting the needs of all sizes of producers.”

“During her remarks, Hubacz shared her background growing up in her family’s small business and learning the ropes first-hand – by putting on the hard hat and getting to work at 18 years old. She additionally shared her enjoyment of being involved with NSSGA over the years and her leadership goals for 2022.

It wasn’t until I joined NSSGA 14 years ago that I realized I wasn’t alone. That there were resources to help me navigate this industry, and that I could be a resource to others – particularly women,” said Karen Hubacz. “There are so many small aggregates companies out there who don’t even realize what they’re missing by not being a member. I want them to see both the benefits of being part of our association and what they can accomplish by joining with us. It’s clear through the success of the past year that we’re truly stronger together.”

During the second general session of the 2022 Annual Convention, NSSGA presented Ric Suzio of York Hill Trap Rock Quarry Co., Inc with the 2022 Barry K. Wendt Commitment Award.

Ric Suzio Receives NSSGA’s 2022 Barry K. Wendt Commitment Award

Having spent 32 years at his family’s business, Ric is currently the Vice President for York Hill Trap Rock Quarry.  He participates in the NSSGA Government & Regulatory Affairs Committee and was a past Young Leader Council Chair. For over a decade, Ric has chaired the Legislative Committee of the Connecticut Construction Industries Association. During this time, he established the association as a respected resource. Ric additionally has a long history of community service having served as Chairman of the Board of the Boys and Girls Club of Meriden and is a Hall of Fame Member. Ric also received the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce Community Partner Award and currently serves on the board of the Meriden Historical Society and the Meriden Economic Development Board.“Ric Suzio, of York Hill Trap Rock Quarry, is most deserving as the recipient of the 2022 Barry K. Wendt Memorial Commitment Award. With his personality, leadership skills and dedication to the industry’s success, Ric embodies the characteristics that this award was created for,” said NSSGA President & CEO Michael Johnson. “Throughout his career, he has shown an ability to tackle difficult issues and a willingness to take on new challenges, which is to be commended.”

The award, a memorial to Wendt, was presented by the Manufacturers & Services Division Chairman, Kevin Gokie of Astec Industries. Kristi Wendt, the daughter of Barry, attended the ceremony and spoke about her father’s legacy on the aggregates industry.

The NSSGA’s Manufacturers and Services Division established the award in 1998 to annually recognize an individual in the industry who exhibits the dedication exemplified by Barry Wendt, both in commitment to the industry and the community in which they live.