The science and art of quarrying have developed over thousands of years, from the Egyptians and Romans to modern-day producers.
Whether corporately run or of the mom-and-pop variety, the most successful aggregate producers strive for excellence in productivity, safety, quality, operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Mastering even one – let alone all – of these areas is no simple feat. It’s a team effort, built on critical knowledge that’s long been passed down through the generations via hands-on experience.
In recent years, workforce shortages led to the loss of much of the tribal knowledge that was traditionally passed down within the industry. Building up the next generation of operators is therefore critical to the industry’s continued success.
As such, we recommend using the latest edition of the Pit & Quarry University Handbook as a foundational resource to mold the minds of those who will be instrumental to aggregate operations in the years to come.
Building expertise
Pit & Quarry was made available as a magazine by 1916, and it remains a resource that those entering the industry can consult each month to supplement the information imparted within this Handbook. Readers are also encouraged to explore Pit & Quarry’s other resources – including online news and features, e-newsletters and a regular podcast – to stay connected with the industry and its leaders.

Pit & Quarry‘s Handbook has been a cornerstone resource on aggregate processes like drilling, blasting and crushing since it’s initial print launch in 1907, with countless new editions published before finally being digitized as P&Q University for the first time in 1998. The history of the Pit & Quarry University Handbook has led to its modern iteration, more accessible than ever and backed by decades of evolution.
The content presented within the Handbook represents a collaboration between leading individuals and companies within the industry. Just as the most successful operations assemble great teams, Pit & Quarry called on experts across the crushed stone, sand and gravel space to share their knowledge and build this aggregate 101 guide for the next generation of pit and quarry operators – and we thank those contributors for their efforts.
Within the Handbook are 11 chapters detailing aggregate processing from start to finish. From the opening chapter presenting an industry overview to the final one covering safety and health, our goal is to be a pathway that fosters tribal knowledge from one generation to the next.
Extending our reach
In addition to making the Pit & Quarry University Handbook available to print subscribers of the magazine, copies are shared with leading mining universities and technical programs to reach those who will influence decision-making at the operations of tomorrow.
Additionally, we encourage you to keep an eye on the online University for future quizzes and sharable education content to promote learning for yourself and others.