COLUMBIA, S.C. – Carlos Ramos, plant manager at the Knight’s Companies Pineview plant, used his lifetime of experience in the concrete industry to win Midlands Plant Manager of the Year Award for 2026.
Ramos began his career as a concrete mixer driver in 1989 and said he’s now done almost every job possible at a concrete company.
Starting at Knight’s in Feb. 2025, the 61-year-old quickly became known for his steadfast commitment to Knight’s safety and efficiency standards.
Ramos praised his supervisor – Area Manager Brent Nelson – as being one of the best managers he’s ever worked for, despite the nearly 25-year age difference between the two.
“Carlos is the type of manager that you never have to check on,” Nelson said. “He locks it down and we always know he’s got a great handle on the situation.”
Ramos also shares a work history with Knight’s Operations Development Manager Mark Sanders, who he’s worked alongside since 2008.
“Coming from a corporation to a family-owned business like Knight’s, it’s more relaxed here. You’re able to show your talents more,” Ramos said.
He also commended Knight’s employees for always being kind, approachable and willing to offer a helping hand.
Since 1996, Ramos has worked as a manager in some form or another at his various employers, something that was no doubt a deciding factor in his winning Plant Manager of the Year.
The award was created for someone who consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership and commitment to safety, quality and operational excellence at their plant, something Nelson credits Ramos with regularly.
Ramos said some of the most important keys to success is understanding the plant you’re working with as well as its people.
“The drivers at Knight’s are awesome. It was actually kinda funny that when I first started here I realized I knew a few of the drivers from my previous employers,” he laughed.
According to Ramos, as long as he stays in good health, he has no plans to retire and plans to work for Knight’s as long as possible.
“My time at Knight’s has been great, and I’m looking forward to putting in many more years at the company,” he said.
When he’s not running his plant, Ramos enjoys relaxing at home with his family, doing yardwork and his wife’s “honey-do list.”
For anyone looking for a solid employer in South Carolina or Georgia, Ramos encourages them to apply for Knight’s and added “they won’t regret it!”
To learn more about the #1KnightsTeam, visit knightscompanies.com.