What do pickleball courts, an airport cargo apron and slipform concrete silos have in common? They all earned the companies that helped build them awards from the Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association.
The organization, which represents concrete producers and their partners in Indiana, presented the awards during its 2026 winter mixer.
Ozinga won the Sustainability Award for building slipform concrete silos, a low-carbon project that supports the production and distribution of materials made of cement. Ozinga spent eight days continually pouring the 3,270 cubic yards concrete. Pouring heights at the East Chicago manufacturing facility reached 185 feet. Officials expect operations to begin there this year.
Borton Construction, Morrison Construction, Raffin Construction Co. and concrete pumper YARD1 assisted the project.
Ozinga also earned the Aviation Award for pouring 53,000 cubic yards of concrete in four months at the Gary International Airport. The project separates freight activity form passenger service as the airport anticipates the return of passenger service.
“These two projects reflect how collaboration and innovation drive both performance and sustainability,” said Zach Babcock of Ozinga Ready Mix in a press release. “Whether supporting aviation growth or advancing low-carbon materials, our teams worked closely with contractors and owners to deliver solutions that meet today’s demands while preparing for the future.”
Ozinga collaborated with designer Mead & Hunt, engineer NGC Corp. and concrete finisher Superior Construction.
“From aviation infrastructure to sustainability-focused production facilities, these projects show how concrete continues to evolve to meet performance and environmental goals,” said IRMCA Executive Director Chad Montgomery. “Ozinga’s work demonstrates the leadership and innovation shaping the future of our industry.”
Smith Ready Mix was part of the team that earned the Commercial Award for work it completed at the 92,000-square-foot indoor Southlake YMCA Sports Complex in Crown Point. They collaborated with architect Ingenii, engineer James F. Giannini & Associates, and general contractor and concrete finisher Tonn and Blank on the project.
The pickleball court slabs are of particular note, because they meet regulations for tournaments. The Smith team used lasers and drones to make sure the slabs were perfectly placed.
“This project required a high level of accuracy and coordination,” said Jake Wood of Smith Ready Mix. “Using specialized mix designs and advanced placement technology allowed the team to deliver the flatness and performance needed for a high-use athletic facility.”
The project began in March and was completed in November.
“The Southlake YMCA Sports Complex is a great example of how concrete supports modern recreational and commercial spaces,” Montgomery said. “From advanced mix designs to innovative placement techniques, this project reflects the quality and collaboration that define excellence in Indiana’s concrete industry.”
Smith Ready Mix has headquarters in Valparaiso, and Ozinga
