VICTORVILLE, CA — CEMEX USA’s Victorville Cement Plant marked its 100th anniversary on Thursday, September 28, with a history-rich celebration on the grounds of its river facility.

The event, which featured award presentations, memorabilia, a time-capsule burial and more, was attended by nearly 200 current and former plant employees, their families, community leaders, customers, CEMEX executives and friends.

“The Victorville Cement Plant is more than just a business. It is a family. None of this would have been possible without the people who’ve worked here over the past 100 years. CEMEX looks forward to celebrating the continued successes of our Victorville team over the next century,” CEMEX USA President Ignacio Madridejos said.

In his opening remarks at the event, Plant Manager Carlos Uruchurtu thanked his team members for their steadfast commitment to safety over the years and highlighted the role the plant has had in the construction of the region.

“The history of the plant is long and vibrant, and we’re proud to continue producing the finest cement products in California. The cement produced here in Victorville has provided the very foundation for the state’s growth, and we are committed to continuing to serve our customers and community while providing a safe and productive workplace for our people,” Uruchurtu said.

Founded by Carl Leonardt in 1916, the Victorville plant has been a vital part of the High Desert’s economic landscape for decades—a fact that did not go unnoticed by local leaders. Victorville Mayor Gloria Garcia and Apple Valley Mayor Barb Stanton were both on hand to present the plant with commemorative 100th anniversary plaques, and the County of San Bernardino recognized the plant with a special resolution.

Also in attendance was Mojave Desert Air Quality Management Executive Director Brad Poirie, who presented the plant with the 2015/2016 Exemplar Award—the highest honor given by the district to facilities that implement energy-cutting measures and renewable energy projects to reduce their carbon footprints.

“This plant has persevered through good times and bad: Two world wars, three different owners and countless upgrades to its facilities and equipment. And yet, through all of the changes, two things have remained constant: A commitment to safety and a commitment to producing a high-quality product. CEMEX USA is proud to be a part of this remarkable plant’s past, present and future,” said Dr. Hugo Bolio, CEMEX USA’s executive vice president of cement operations and technology.

CEMEX is a global building materials company that provides high-quality products and reliable service to customers and communities in more than 50 countries throughout the world. For more information, visit www.cemexusa.com