Building Momentum: IQ’s Commitment to Excellence in the Year Ahead
The start of a new year represents the opportunity for us all to look forward and refocus our efforts for the coming months both personally and professionally. Over the festive period many of us will have had the chance to reflect and evaluate what is important to us, setting new goals and ambitions.
This year will be full of progression for our sector and the Institute. You will know the core SHE qualifications that we have relied on in the aggregates industry have been undergoing an extensive revision during 2025 and into 2026, led by MPQC, with IQ members contributing to the process to ensure we have a qualification that meets the needs of the current industry. The article within this month’s magazine provides an overview of what has happened so far and what we can expect during the year.
As President in 2026, I want to set out our objectives for the Institute as shaped by our Board, Council and membership working group. Alongside the SHE qualification development, we are targeting improvements to our membership services and a drive to grow our membership both in the UK and internationally.
To achieve this, we will be progressing and improving systems and processes to ensure better engagement, along with enhancements to our communications to increase visibility of the services we offer.
We will also be attending Hillhead 2026, which is always a great focal point for our industry and members, providing time to meet with colleagues and see some of the new technology available.
The Institute will continue its work around the review and development of membership services to support members at all stages of their career and ensure we incorporate the changing landscape we face, with sustainability and technology playing an increasingly important role in working lives.
I’m passionate about seeing our membership both in the UK and internationally as leaders in delivering smart solutions and adapting to the changing world. I believe our membership will provide the hardware enabling our industry to utilize new technologies to the best advantage. We have a great opportunity to help shape the future of our profession and support the industry in delivering the critical products that underpin the wider economy and society.
Our network of branches will remain an invaluable place for members to learn and share their experiences, both face to face and virtually. The strength of the IQ is its members and their experience. For those starting out in their careers, the network provides a great opportunity to tap into a lifetime of knowledge and experience.
Ben Williams
