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52 • ROCK products • August 2016 www.rockproducts.com A s you begin your term as chairman of the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (NSSGA), what is the number-one thing you would like to accomplish? One of the key strategic objectives in our Rocks Build America plan is to articulate NSSGA's value proposition and increase producer memberships. The area with the greatest potential for growth are our producer companies of small and medium sizes. The owners of these companies can be a vital compo- nent of our grassroots legislative efforts and we want them to join the fight to stop over-burdensome regulations. The CEOs and leaders of these companies typically have a close relationship with their members of Congress. They attend little league games together, go on dove hunts, play weekend golf and share many other activities with our elected officials. We need their input, support, participation and leadership in this organization. What are your plans to build on the work of your predecessor? Last year, NSSGA Chairman Charlie Luck revamped the asso- ciation's governance structure. His Board Evolution Initiative was necessary for the association to meet its strategic goals. It refocuses the larger board of directors on participation, activation and recruitment by bringing in highly qualified and highly committed leaders from each state to grow our membership and grassroots might. The initiative also accel- erates the transition of young leaders into NSSGA leadership to better harness their untapped energy, perspective and talent. Board and committee meetings are now stream- lined to best make use of our volunteer leadership's time to efficiently make progress on our key goals, and the work of the association will take place in eight standing commit- tees. Implementing this plan will be an important part of my efforts this year. How will you continue to implement NSSGA's strategic plan? Under my term, the first Rocks Build America three-year plan comes to a close. In June, I appointed a taskforce to develop and recommend new goals and objectives that will take us from 2017-2020. Advocacy is and remains Job No. 1 at NSSGA, and we will focus on improving and strength- ening our lobbying, grassroots programs and engagement with regulators. Growing our membership – especially from small and medium operations – and pushing out engaging and interesting communications to our members will also remain key priorities. How important is communications to NSSGA as the asso- ciation works to achieve its goals? The goal of our communications efforts is to support, report on and enhance all of NSSGA's activities to both the industry and the general public. By showing not only our members but non-members the value of the association's activities, we can grow the scope and influence of the industry. The Rock Products Interview: Hal F. Williford Jr. The President and CEO of Memphis Stone and Gravel Co. Talks About Leadership, Communications, Industry Engagement, Young Leaders and the Best Business Advice He Ever Received. By Mark S. Kuhar Hal F. Williford Jr. INTERVIEW WITH NSSGA CEO