Registration is now open for Quarry 101, taking place March 31 - April 1, 2026, at Carter Machinery in Mechanicsville, VA. Developed and presented by Built for the Mine, Quarry 101 is an eight-hour introduction to the quarrying process - from site location, through basic operations such as blasting, loading, and hauling, all the way to products produced and site reclamation. The intent of the course is to provide a broad perspective for personnel who know their particular job very well, but may lack the overarching understanding of the entire process and how they, personally, contribute to the entire team effort.
Attendees will learn the basics of the quarrying process, including:
- Exploration and site location
- Basic operations such as blasting, loading and hauling
- Maintenance
- Interacting with neighbors and the community
- Health, safety and environmental considerations
- Types of products produced
- Site reclamation
Attendees will learn from expert instructors from Luck Companies, Vulcan Materials, Martin Marietta, Virginia Tech, Austin Powder, Epiroc, Carter Machinery, Caterpillar, and Paschal Associates. In addition to classroom time, participants will enjoy a tour of Carter Machinery.
What is the cost?
There is a flat fee of $400 for all attendees.
Proceeds from registration fees go toward scholarships for students pursuing careers in quarrying.
Who should attend?
The intent of Quarry 101 is to provide a broad perspective for personnel who know their particular job very well but may lack the overarching understanding of the entire process and how they, personally, contribute to the entire team effort. This course is ideal for those new to the industry or those employees who may not work in a quarry or pit.
What should I bring?
Attire is business casual (jeans are welcome!). For the Carter Machinery tour, please wear closed-toe shoes. Safety glasses are also required — feel free to bring your own, or we’ll have some available on site.