MITCHELL – The Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association announced the creation of the Michael L. Collins Cement Producer Award, a new honor recognizing outstanding contributions and marketing efforts by a member of the Portland Cement Industry within Indiana.
The announcement was made during the IRMCA 2026 Winter Mixer, where Rachelle Collins accepted the final Carl D. Franks Award – Cement Producer on behalf of her late husband. Following the award acceptance, the IRMCA said the award had been renamed in Michael’s name going forward.
John Vaughan, a co-worker and close friend of Collins and the 2025 recipient of the Carl D. Franks Award, joined IRMCA leadership in presenting the award to Rachelle.
Collins was a 1983 graduate of Mitchell High School and a 1987 graduate of DePauw University. He was a dedicated employee of Lehigh Cement Company and later Heidelberg Materials for more than 35 years and was known for both his leadership and his commitment to helping others grow.
“Michael Collins dedicated his life to the cement and ready mix industries, and to the people behind it,” said IRMCA Executive Director Chad Montgomery. “He was a respected leader, a mentor, and someone who consistently showed up for IRMCA and for the broader ready mixed concrete community. By naming this award in his honor, we’re ensuring Michael’s impact on our association, our industry and our state continues to be recognized for generations.”
Collins became widely known not only for his professional expertise, but also for his community service—as a certified minister, elder, youth pastor, coach, and friend to many. He passed away in early 2025.
The Michael L. Collins Cement Producer Award will be presented annually to recognize outstanding contributions and advocacy that strengthen Indiana’s cement and ready mixed concrete industry, reflecting the professionalism, character, and collaborative spirit that defined Collins’ career.
For more information on the IRMCA’s 2026 Winter Mixer, click here.
About the Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association
The Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association represents Indiana’s ready mixed concrete producers and industry partners. IRMCA is dedicated to advancing the use of concrete through education, promotion, advocacy, and workforce development while supporting safe, sustainable, and high-quality construction across the state.
