Jiang Lihua: Pioneering excellence in China’s cement industry

On the production floor of Ningxia SaiMa Cement Co Ltd, Jiang Lihua moves constantly between laboratories and workshops, checking data, refining processes and overseeing quality control. Over the past 28 years, Jiang has risen from a frontline inspector to the head of the company’s technology and quality department, building a distinguished career in the traditionally male-dominated cement industry.

Her dedication and technical expertise have earned her numerous honors, including the National May 1 Labor Medal, the title of National Technical Expert and the regional distinction of “Saishang Craftsman.”

Jiang Lihua, head of the technology and quality department of Ningxia SaiMa Cement Co Ltd, works in the cement industry with craftsmanship and dedication for 28 years.

Growing through innovation

“When I first entered the cement industry, it was simply because my major matched the job,” Jiang said. “I never expected to stay for 28 years.”

A graduate majoring in cement technology, Jiang joined Ningxia SaiMa shortly after completing her studies and began her career in laboratory testing and quality inspection. Years of hands-on experience on the production line gave her a deep understanding of both manufacturing processes and product quality.

Jiang Lihua works in a laboratory.

Over nearly three decades, Jiang has led her team in advancing technological innovation and product development, helping launch a number of new products that gained broad market recognition.

Under her leadership, the team has also achieved strong results in national industry competitions, including major contests in chemical analysis and physical testing in China’s cement sector.

From senior technician to senior engineer, Jiang continued expanding her expertise beyond cement manufacturing into areas such as enterprise management, energy management and greenhouse gas accounting, earning multiple professional certifications along the way.

Her ability to combine technical knowledge with practical production experience has made her one of the industry’s leading specialists.

Jiang Lihua mentors a younger worker.

Passing skills to the next generation

Jiang has also devoted significant energy to mentoring younger workers.

She introduced a master-apprentice training system within the company, helping cultivate a new generation of skilled workers. Several of her apprentices later became nationally recognized operators, while her team received honors including a top national award for cement quality inspection and the title of a nationally trusted team.

Jiang Lihua (M) works in a laboratory mentoring younger workers.

Beyond the factory, Jiang has participated in projects supporting rural revitalization through science and technology.

During visits to villages in Jingyuan county, she explored ways to combine local development with green agriculture and low-carbon industries — an experience she said deepened her understanding of the broader value of her work and strengthened her commitment to promoting greener industrial development.

Looking ahead, Jiang plans to continue focusing on new product research while leading her team in exploring low-carbon technologies and carbon footprint management. For younger workers entering the industry, her advice is simple:

“Persistence and innovation. Keep improving.”

The words reflect not only her philosophy toward work, but also the spirit she hopes to pass on as one of Ningxia’s leading craftsmen.