Attention engineering students! Are you ready to take the next step towards an exciting and rewarding career in the mining industry? Iron Senergy is coming to a campus near you! We’re excited to meet future engineers at several upcoming career fairs and info sessions. This is your chance to learn more about career opportunities, internships, and how your engineering skills can build the future of mining.
Upcoming Events:
University of Kentucky Mini Career Fair
📅 Date: October 2, 2024
🕑 Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: UKY Mini Career Fair
Bluefield State University Info Session
📅 Date: October 16, 2024
🕦 Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Bluefield State University
Engineering students at Bluefield State, join us for an in-depth info session. You’ll get the chance to connect with Iron Senergy engineers, learn about our projects, and explore career paths with us.
Penn State Extraction Industries Career Fair
📅 Date: October 30, 2024
🕦 Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Heritage Hall, HUB-Robeson Center
Fairmont State University College of Sci-Tech Fall Career Fair
📅 Date: October 31, 2024
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Location: Colebank Gym
Why Attend?
Explore Career Opportunities
Discover how your engineering degree can lead to a fulfilling career at Iron Senergy, where we’re committed to innovation and sustainability in energy production.
Network with Industry Experts
Connect with professionals who can provide valuable insights into the energy and mining industries. Learn firsthand what it’s like to work on cutting-edge projects that make a real impact.
Get Your Questions Answered
Whether you’re curious about day-to-day responsibilities, long-term career growth, or how our projects align with sustainability, our team will be there to provide answers.
Join Us and Build the Future of Mining
Iron Senergy is looking for talented, driven engineers to join our growing team. Attend one of these events to learn more about the exciting opportunities waiting for you. We can’t wait to meet the next generation of engineering leaders!
Follow us on social media for event updates!
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/IronSenergy/
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ironsenergy/
#IronSenergy #EngineeringCareers #CareerFair #EnergyIndustry #JoinOurTeam #WVU #UKY #BluefieldState #FairmontState
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/”
At Iron Senergy, we take immense pride in the dedication and skill of our Mine Rescue team, and their recent performance at the 59th Annual Pennsylvania State Mine Rescue, First Aid, and Bench Contest is a testament to their hard work and expertise.
Our team achieved outstanding results across the board, bringing home multiple top honors, including:
🥇 1st Place Bench
🥇 1st Place First Aid
🥇 1st Place Day One
🥈 2nd Place Day Two
🥇 1st Place Overall
🥇 1st Place Combination
These accomplishments are a reflection of the team’s unwavering commitment to safety, preparedness, and excellence. Competing at such a high level requires not only technical knowledge but also the ability to work under pressure, think critically, and collaborate effectively as a team.
The Pennsylvania State Mine Rescue, First Aid, and Bench Contest is a prestigious event that brings together some of the best and most skilled teams in the industry. To see our team excel in every category is truly inspiring and reinforces the importance of the rigorous training and preparation they undertake.
We invite everyone to join us in recognizing and celebrating the incredible efforts of our Mine Rescue team. Their achievements at this competition not only bring honor to Iron Senergy but also underscore the critical role of mine rescue teams in ensuring the safety and well-being of miners everywhere.
Congratulations to our team for their stellar performance! We look forward to supporting them as they continue to set new standards of excellence in mine rescue.
At Iron Senergy, safety is more than just a priority—it’s a core value that guides every aspect of our operations. We are thrilled to announce that our commitment to creating a safe and secure work environment has been recognized with a Health & Safety award from Cintas.
This award is a testament to the collective efforts of our entire team, who work tirelessly every day to ensure that safety protocols are not only met but exceeded. From rigorous training programs to the implementation of advanced safety technologies, we are dedicated to fostering a culture where safety comes first.
Receiving this recognition from Cintas, a leader in safety products and solutions, is an incredible honor. It affirms the importance of the safety measures we have in place and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in this critical area. The support and acknowledgment from Cintas mean a great deal to us, as it highlights the value of our ongoing commitment to the well-being of our employees and the integrity of our operations.
We believe that a strong safety culture is foundational to the success of any organization. It not only protects our most valuable asset—our people—but also contributes to the efficiency and sustainability of our business.
As we celebrate this achievement, we remain focused on our mission to maintain and enhance our safety practices. We understand that safety is an ongoing journey, and we are committed to continually improving our processes to ensure the highest standards are upheld.
We extend our deepest thanks to Cintas for this honor and for their continued support. Together, we will keep pushing forward, making safety not just a priority, but a way of life at Iron Senergy.
At Iron Senergy, we are incredibly proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Mine Rescue team. Their hard work and dedication were recently recognized at both the state and national levels, highlighting their commitment to safety and excellence.
Our team’s journey to success began with a remarkable performance at the Pennsylvania State Mine Rescue competition, where they were named Pennsylvania State Mine Rescue Champions. This prestigious title is a testament to their skill, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to mine safety. Competing against some of the best teams in the state, our team showcased their ability to handle high-pressure situations with precision and confidence.
Following their state victory, the team continued to impress on the national stage at the Mine Rescue Competition in Lexington, KY. Competing against top teams from across the country, they secured two notable placements:
These accomplishments reflect not only their technical expertise but also their dedication to continuous improvement and excellence in mine rescue operations.
Proud to Support Our Team
At Iron Senergy, safety is at the core of everything we do, and our Mine Rescue team embodies this commitment. Their recent achievements are a source of great pride for our entire organization, and we are honored to have such a talented and dedicated team representing us.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to each member of the Mine Rescue team and thank them for their hard work and dedication. Your efforts make a difference every day, and these accolades are well-deserved recognition of your expertise and commitment.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for more updates on our Mine Rescue team and other safety initiatives at Iron Senergy. Together, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and excellence in the industry.
WAYNESBURG, Pa., April 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Iron Senergy (“Iron”), the owner and operator of the Cumberland Mine located in Greene County, Pennsylvania, recognizes Senator Robert P. Casey’s concern for the Pennsylvania coal industry and its workforce. Through his recent press releases, Senator Casey has made it clear that the continued operation of coal-producing assets, like the Cumberland Mine, is in the “best interest of our nation.” Iron could not agree more and believes it is important for politicians like Senator Casey to bring attention to coal’s critical role in our national security, the reliability of our electrical grid, and lifting large portions of the world’s population out of energy poverty.
Unfortunately, the issues of coal production and coal-fired electrical generation have long been the focus of partisan politics and discourse, often at the expense of communities like Greene County, Pennsylvania. Senator Casey has made it clear that he will fight for the miners, families and economy of Greene County. We need strong voices in Washington that dare to reach across the aisle and fight back against the regulatory regime that continues to challenge the ability of coal producers and coal-fired utilities to do business, including without limitation, the EPA’s Ozone Transport Rule, Effluent Limitations Guidelines, and especially the Carbon Rule / Clean Power Plan 2.0.
Justin Thompson, Iron’s owner and Chief Executive Officer, issued the following statement:
“I appreciate Senator’s Casey’s acknowledgement of the importance of the coal industry. Over the past ten years, however, Pennsylvania has lost half of its coal mining jobs. For that reason, I am inviting Senator Casey to visit our operations as soon as it can be arranged to discuss his support of the Cumberland Mine, which as Senator Casey notes, has been a large employer in Greene County since the 1970s. I am proud that Iron acquired the Cumberland Mine three years ago and deployed over $130 million in capital to extend the life of the mine and save over 700 jobs that would have been eliminated based on the closure plan of the previous owner. Senator Casey speaks of the need for coal miners to be certain about their future. So long as Iron continues to own the Cumberland Mine and can operate it safely and compliantly to serve a performing market, Iron stands ready to fight for the certainty of the coal industry.
Countless wars rage around the world over the control of energy assets. We are blessed in the United States, particularly the Appalachian region, with abundant natural resources. Iron and other fossil fuel companies are willing to do the hard work required to harvest those resources safely and productively and to continue serving as the economic cornerstones of our communities. However, we need a regulatory environment that supports us rather than hinders us, as the greatest threat to the continued operation of coal assets like the Cumberland Mine is bad federal and state policies, which are forcing the premature retirement of coal-fired power plants and causing the loss of jobs like those supported by the Cumberland Mine. I look forward to meeting and working with Senator Casey and other officials to promote sensible “all of the above” energy policies that provide a future for the coal industry, protect Pennsylvania jobs and keep the lights on throughout the Commonwealth.
Energy demand is growing exponentially both here and abroad. Rhetoric is now meeting reality as grid operators and energy officials are warning that our electricity supply is becoming unreliable and, as a result, large parts of the country face the risk of rolling blackouts. The U.S. electrical grid has failed five times in the past eleven years due to winter storms alone. Now is the time to act before it is too late. We need to face the coal hard truth.”
Iron Senergy (“Iron”), the owner and operator of the Cumberland Mine located in Greene County, Pennsylvania, is aware that members of the international and local leadership of the United Mine Workers of America (“UMWA”) have issued press releases and commissioned news articles indicating that the Cumberland Mine is permanently closing. These reports are false.
Prior to Iron’s acquisition of the Cumberland Mine from Contura Energy, the Cumberland Mine was set to be permanently closed in December 2022. In the last three (3) years, however, Iron and its owner Justin Thompson have deployed over $130 million in capital to extend the life of, and invest in the future success of, the Cumberland Mine. In addition, Iron has significantly reclaimed and repurposed the former Emerald Mine (which was closed in 2015), rebranding it as the “Greene Energy Center”, which now hosts a number of industrial applications, including a new frac-sand transloading facility, all of which have created jobs and tax dollars and benefited the local economy.
Along the way, Iron has added over 100 full-time employees at the Cumberland Mine and donated over $3 million to over 150 local community organizations. Any suggestion by the UMWA in its public statements that Iron has treated its employees unfairly, or that Iron does not understand its importance within the community, is patently false and would be refuted by an overwhelming majority of the workforce at the Cumberland Mine and the citizens of Greene County, Pennsylvania.
Furthermore, any suggestion by the UMWA that Iron is failing to communicate adequately with the UMWA is unfounded. Iron has a well-documented history of meeting regularly with the UMWA to discuss issues and will continue to engage as needed and when reasonably convenient. Iron will not, however, respond to unreasonable demands for in-person meetings, on short notice, ahead of a holiday weekend, when management is traveling and/or spending time with family. Prior to the issuance of the aforementioned UMWA press release, Iron made it clear in written communications to the UMWA that Iron is willing to schedule a meeting in the near future when mutually convenient for the parties.
The workers at the Cumberland Mine were sent home on March 20, 2024 as a result of elevated methane levels detected in the Cumberland Mine. Those workers will be called back to work when Iron determines that the Cumberland Mine can be operated safely and compliantly and when sufficient modes of transportation are made available by Iron’s customers to reduce inventory levels and justify the recommencement of mining activities, which has only been compounded by the recent closure of the Port of Baltimore as a result of the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Subject to the foregoing, Iron fully expects to resume production in the coming days as previously planned.
While unfortunate, the public statements issued and commissioned by the UMWA have generated a number of unnecessary rumors and questions about the future of the Cumberland Mine. As evident by Iron’s investment in the Cumberland Mine, its workforce and the community over the past three (3) years, Iron desires to experience the continued operation and success of the Cumberland Mine. However, like every other coal producer in the United States, Iron will continue to evaluate the continued operation of the Cumberland Mine based on a number of relevant factors, including its ability to operate a safe and compliant coal mine, its ability to adequately staff its operations with qualified personnel, and its view on the long-term commitment of its customer base. That type of evaluation commenced in December 2020 when Iron acquired the Cumberland Mine, has occurred each year since then and will continue to occur in 2024 and beyond. The UMWA should not confuse that evaluation, and the related planning activities related thereto, as a decision to permanently close the Cumberland Mine at any particular time.
The WVU Medicine Children’s Gala commemorated its 20th anniversary at the Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place on Saturday, February 10, with the presentation of the 2024 Community Service Award to Iron Senergy CEO/Owner, Justin Thompson.
As Thompson received the award, a video showcased individuals personally touched by his generosity, including Michelle James, a patient recently diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Michelle had the opportunity to attend concerts by Taylor Swift and Mariah Carey, courtesy of Iron Senergy. Reflecting on these experiences, Michelle shared, “It gave me something to look forward to in such a hard time, just getting to scream my favorite songs at the top of my lungs. It was an amazing little break from reality.” You can hear more of Michelle’s story, as well as that of Iron Senergy Plant Manager, Eric Gribble, who also benefited from Thompson’s kindness in the award video below.
Thompson’s dedication to philanthropy has left a permanent mark on countless lives. One notable initiative is his donation of $1 million to support the Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the new WVU Medicine Children’s Hospital. In honor of his donation Amy L. Bush, B.S.N., M.B.A., R.N., C.N.O.R., chief operating officer for WVU Medicine Children’s, said, “The Thompson family’s gift will help us build a top-notch facility and attract world-class neonatal experts to ensure that West Virginia families never have to leave the state for the care they need.”
The gala raised an astounding $1.45 million to support West Virginia children and their families, with over 1,200 attendees enjoying an elegant affair featuring a cocktail reception, silent auction, live entertainment, dinner, and more, all under the theme of “City of Lights.” A total of 90 sponsors contributed to the fundraising total, including top-level sponsors Iron Senergy, the Hayhurst Family, United Sound, Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place, CJL Engineering and HED Design, Friends of WVU Hospitals, Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration, Duke’s Mayo, Daniel’s Men’s Store, and WVU Medicine Garrett Regional Medical Center and Potomac Valley Hospital.
Through initiatives like these, Iron Senergy continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting our community and helping those in need. By using the strength of kindness and working together we believe we can create a brighter, more hopeful future for all.
In the spirit of giving, Iron Senergy, under the leadership of CEO and Owner Justin Thompson, has made a significant impact by enabling a heartwarming initiative. Recently, Thompson spoke about Iron Senergy’s contribution, which allowed WVU Medicine to send patients to Mariah Carey’s “Merry Christmas One and All” concert at PPG Paints Arena on December 5th. This gesture not only showcases the company’s commitment to the community but also highlights the profound impact of generosity on those in need.
Among the individuals who benefited from this opportunity is Michelle James, a patient with a touching story to share. Michelle revealed, “This year, I was diagnosed with another form of leukemia, and it was going well for a little bit. We decided it was time for a bone marrow transplant. We thought I wouldn’t be home for Christmas, but thanks to this event, I get to celebrate Christmas with my mom before IV chemo starts again in the new year. I’m grateful for these precious moments!”
Michelle’s story epitomizes the power of generosity in bringing joy and hope to those facing challenging circumstances. Despite undergoing intensive medical treatment, the opportunity to attend Mariah Carey’s concert provided her with a much-needed respite and the chance to create cherished memories with her loved ones during the holiday season.
Iron Senergy’s support not only facilitated James’s attendance at the concert but also symbolizes the company’s dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals within the community. By partnering with WVU Medicine Children’s, Iron Senergy exemplifies the importance of corporate social responsibility and the profound impact it can have on enhancing the well-being of others.
As we reflect on this heartwarming story, let us celebrate the power of generosity and the joy it brings to those who need it most. Iron Senergy’s contribution serves as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect, spreading happiness and hope to those facing adversity.
Iron Senergy is honored to have received the 2023 Reclamation Award from the Pennsylvania Coal Alliance. The recognition for “Best Overall Project” acknowledges Iron Senergy’s outstanding reclamation efforts at the Emerald Mine, a mining operation that has undergone a remarkable transformation under our stewardship.
The Emerald Mine, acquired by Iron Senergy in December 2020, had lain dormant since its closure in 2015, with little attention given to its reclamation. Embarking on a visionary journey, Iron Senergy initiated a comprehensive reclamation and repurposing initiative in September 2021, setting the stage for a remarkable turnaround. A total of 77 structures at the site were meticulously demolished and reclaimed, breathing new life into the landscape.
In a gesture that resonates with the community and underscores our commitment to innovation, Iron Senergy has rebranded the once dormant site as the “Greene Energy Center.” This transformation not only pays homage to Greene County but also signals our dedication to pioneering sustainable and forward-thinking initiatives.
At the heart of our transformative efforts is the establishment of a state-of-the-art frac sand transloading facility, a result of a strategic lease agreement with Smart Sand, Inc. Operations at this facility commenced in January 2022, marking the beginning of a partnership set to transload over 1 million tons of frac sand annually. This not only invigorates the local economy but also opens up new avenues for rail business, benefiting the Norfolk Southern railroad.
Our collaboration with Smart Sand, Inc. aligns seamlessly with Iron Senergy’s commitment to innovation and fostering economic growth. The facility, located at the former Emerald rail loadout, now serves as Smart Sand’s Northeastern hub for last-mile storage and transloading solutions, enhancing efficiency and accessibility for the entire operation.
The vision for the Greene Energy Center extends far beyond sand. Iron Senergy has ambitious plans for the site, including the development of solar energy projects. Multiple interconnection applications have been filed with PJM for utility-scale solar endeavors, showcasing our dedication to creating a hub for diverse and sustainable energy solutions.
The Greene Energy Center is more than a project; it’s a testament to Iron Senergy’s vision for responsible development, economic growth, and environmental stewardship. As operations unfold and new chapters are written, this initiative is set to redefine the landscape, creating a lasting legacy of positive impact for Greene County and beyond. Stay tuned for the unfolding story of progress at the Greene Energy Center.