Institute of Quarrying

The strategic partnership between the University of Derby and the Institute of Quarrying (IQ) focuses on fostering innovation, education, and excellence in the quarrying and mineral products sectors. Together, we aim to create advanced training programs, conducting industry-relevant research, and offering practical opportunities to equip the next generation of professionals with the skills needed for success. 

About the Institute of Quarrying

The Institute of Quarrying was founded over 100 years ago by four people with a vision for the mineral products industry. They wanted the industry to come together to raise standards, share knowledge and be recognised as highly skilled professionals which are the principles that guide the Institute of Quarrying today.  

Partnering for impact

The partnership between the University of Derby and the Institute of Quarrying is dedicated to making a lasting impact on the quarrying and mineral products sectors. With joint initiatives like securing funding for the National Stone Centre and offering leadership development courses, this partnership is shaping the future of the industry and contributing to regional growth and community engagement. 

Additionally, the partnership aims to establish the NSC as a Centre of Excellence—an internationally recognised hub for innovation in the quarrying and mineral products industry.  

Minerals Engineering Society Awards

On Tuesday, 24 September 2024, the Centre for Mineral Products hosted the prestigious Minerals Engineering Society (MES) Awards, celebrating student achievement in the minerals sector. The event highlighted the dedication and innovative thinking of students, with speeches from James Thorne, CEO of the Institute of Quarrying, and Ben Campbell, a graduate who presented his research on improving productivity and reducing waste at Coxford Quarry. Kacper Adamczyk, another graduate, showcased his work on sustainable concrete design. 

Students also presented academic posters on contemporary issues, with Group 1 winning 1st prize for their research on Inclusive PPE. Awards were given to outstanding students, including 3rd prize winner Paula Millward for her perseverance in completing a distinction in Asphalt and Pavements, and 2nd prize winner Patrick “Paddy” Beardsley for his dedication despite a gap in formal education. The event was a resounding success, with the society praising the students' work and the future of the industry looking bright. 

  • A group of students holding an award
  • John and James at MED awards event
  • A student giving a presentation during an awards ceremony.
  • A group of people looking at a poster presentation.

Student Awards Ceremony

The Institute of Quarrying and Institute of Asphalt Technology (IAT) recently hosted their annual Student Awards ceremony in Birmingham, celebrating the achievements of high-performing students from the Centre for Mineral Products. Sponsored by EPC-UK and Quarry Design Land Minerals Consulting Ltd, the event recognised students who have excelled in industry-standard qualifications. 

Awards were presented by key industry leaders, including Institute of Quarrying President Ben Williams, and Institute of Asphalt Technology President Gearoid Lohan. Winners from both organisations received awards for outstanding academic performance, including Adam Baker, Haydn Griffiths, and Daniel Penny from Institute of Quarrying, and Kieran Watson, Paula Millward, and Christopher Potter from Institute of Asphalt Technology. Additionally, the new EPC-UK Blasting Award was presented to Joseph Rennocks for his exceptional performance in Blasting Operations. 

The ceremony also included the inaugural Minerals Matter Awards, which recognised individuals and organizations dedicated to inspiring young people about career opportunities in the minerals industry. Chris Rowan, Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer in Mineral Extractives Technology, was also honoured with a Long Service medal for his contributions to the sector. This event highlighted the importance of fostering talent and promoting industry development through education and professional recognition. 

student and employers at ceremony
(Top row left to right: Jordan Eccles, Daniel Penny, John Bright, Adam Baker; Bottom row left to right: Gregg Loan, Haydn Griffiths, Sallie Antill)

Accelerating growth

By combining academic expertise and industry experience, they are driving innovation and enhancing professional development. Through initiatives such as securing funding for the National Stone Centre and creating specialised training programs, the partnership fosters industry advancement. This collaboration supports the growth of both the workforce and the sector itself, ensuring that professionals are equipped with the skills needed to lead and innovate, while also contributing to regional economic development.