Iron Senergy is excited to share that Bluefield State University has reinstated its prestigious Mining Engineering Technology program, after a decade-long pause. The program’s return is timely, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the mining industry.
According to Dr. Darrin Martin, Interim President of Bluefield State University, “We are thrilled to reintroduce the Mining Engineering Technology program at Bluefield State. This program has long been a cornerstone of our engineering offerings, and its revival is a testament to our dedication to fostering economic growth and providing valuable educational opportunities in our region” (Olsen).
The revival of the program originated from discussions between Bluefield State Board of Governors member Shannon Remines and Mike Blackburn of Pocahontas Royalties, LLC. During their conversation about the industry’s growing need for trained engineers, the pair decided to lead the effort to bring back the program (Olsen).
Approved by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission in the spring of 2024, the program has already seen a strong response from high school and vocational students. Coal companies, manufacturers, foundations, and individuals have provided financial support, scholarships, lab space, and internships, ensuring that students are equipped with real-world experience. “It’s important that our students enter the workforce with real-world experience beyond the classroom,” said Bill Bennett, Dean of the School of STEM at Bluefield State (Olsen).
This four-year program will culminate in a Bachelor of Science degree, preparing graduates with essential skills such as mine ventilation, safety management, and mineral processing. According to Keith Olson, Bluefield State’s Vice President of Development, “There are 14 accredited mining and mineral engineering degree programs across the country producing approximately 150 graduates, while there is an industry need for over 500 engineers each year” (Olsen). With a significant portion of the current geoscience workforce set to retire by 2029, the program’s revival couldn’t come at a better time.
Iron Senergy is thrilled to support the next generation of mining professionals and looks forward to seeing the impact of the Mining Engineering Technology program on both students and the mining industry.
For more information on the program, visit Bluefield State’s Mining Engineering Technology page.
“Olsen, Keith. “Mining Engineering Technology Program Returns to Bluefield State University.”Bluefieldstate.edu, 29 Aug. 2024, https://bluefieldstate.edu/2024/08/29/mining-engineering-technology-program-returns-to-bluefield-state-university/”
