The idea to bring back the program came about two years ago due to high interest in mining and a higher demand in the area. Now that the program is coming back, it is expected to be popular.
Bluefield State University has announced that its Mining Engineering Technology program, which had been discontinued for nearly a decade, is coming back to the college due to increased need and increased interest. The four-year program culminates in a Bachelor of Science degree in Mining Engineering Technology.
The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission approved the reinstatement of the program this past spring, and the school has been working hard to prepare for the expected interest it will generate. The first cohort of students has already been selected, thanks to several recruiting missions to area high schools and technical schools. The school was also able to secure scholarships for these students from local coal companies and manufacturers.
According to an article on Bluefield State University's website, the reintroduction of the program was announced at the Third Annual BSU/Pocahontas Royalties Scholarship Dinner and Hall of Fame Induction. Dr. Darrin Martin, the university’s interim president, was quoted as saying, “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.”
Two years ago, Shannon Remines, a member of the Bluefield State University Board of Governors, and Mike Blackburn of Pocahontas Royalties, LLC, came up with the idea to bring back the program. The two were able to drum up support for the idea to bring back the program by hosting an Annual Scholarship Dinner and by celebrating the program’s past success by creating the Bluefield State University Mining and Engineering Hall of Fame.
Keith Olson, the Vice President of Development for Bluefield State University, cited some statistics that prove the timeliness of this reinstatement. He said, “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. Moreover, The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that 27% of the current geoscience workforce will be retiring by 2029 creating the need for 130,000 fully trained workers to fill that gap.”
The program will cover topics that are paramount to have a handle on when entering the mining industry, including mine leadership and organization, mine ventilation, mineral processing, planning, and safety. Local companies will be providing onsite lab space, giving students the firsthand experience they need, adjunct professors, and paid internships.
Dr. Martin said, “The return of the Mining Engineering Technology program is not only a win for our students but also for the mining industry and the local economy that depends on it. We are committed to producing graduates who are ready to contribute to the success of this important industry.”
For more information about Bluefield State University, visit the school’s website.