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 the 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, with whom he has worked 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 are 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, nd 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 adds, “They won’t regret it!”
To learn more about the #1KnightsTeam, visit knightscompanies.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Who is Carlos Ramos?
Carlos Ramos is the Plant Manager of Knight’s Companies’ Pineview plant and was recognized as Plant Manager of the Year for the Midlands market due to his leadership, operational excellence, and industry experience.
Q2. Why was Carlos Ramos named Plant Manager of the Year?
Carlos Ramos earned the award for his strong leadership, commitment to safety, operational efficiency, and dedication to delivering high-quality service while supporting his team’s success.
Q3. What does a plant manager do at Knight’s Companies?
A plant manager oversees daily plant operations, production processes, safety compliance, quality control, equipment management, and team coordination to ensure efficient performance.
Q4. How has Carlos Ramos contributed to Knight’s Companies?
Through years of experience in the concrete industry, Carlos Ramos has helped improve plant operations, maintain high safety standards, and foster a positive work environment focused on customer satisfaction and teamwork.
Q5. What does this recognition mean for Knight’s Companies?
Recognizing outstanding leaders like Carlos Ramos reflects Knight’s Companies’ commitment to operational excellence, employee development, workplace safety, and exceptional customer service.