Mining Engineering Technology Program Returns to Bluefield State University

Bluefield, WV – Bluefield State University officials announced this evening the return of its esteemed Mining Engineering Technology program. After a hiatus of nearly a decade, the program has been reinstated to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the mining industry.

Dr. Darrin Martin, Interim President of Bluefield State University, expressed enthusiasm about the program’s return, stating, “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.”

In less than two years, with industry support, this has gone from a great idea to a bright reality.

interim President Martin

The announcement came during the Third Annual BSU/Pocahontas Royalties Scholarship Dinner and Hall of Fame Induction.  This year’s inductee is Keith Sigmon, a BSU alum and General Manager of Buchanan Mine with Coronado Coal.  He joins past inductees, long-time mining professor and Dean, the late Frank Hart, Warrior Met Coal COO, Jack Richardson, and Alpha Metallurgical Resources COO Jason Whitehead.  

The germ of this idea began two years ago when Bluefield State University Board of Governors member, Shannon Remines, and Mike Blackburn of Pocahontas Royalties, LLC were having dinner.  After bemoaning the need for trained engineers and the high regard for BSU alumni in that industry, the two decided to begin the effort to revive the program.

Hosting an Annual Scholarship Dinner provided the opportunity for university officials to forge relationships with industry leaders and supporters as well as celebrate the history of the program by introducing the Bluefield State University Mining and Engineering Hall of Fame.

The degree program was approved by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission late this past spring and university officials immediately began visiting area high schools and vocational and technical schools.  Armed with scholarships from coal companies, manufacturers, foundations, and individuals; the first class of future engineers has been assembled.

Bluefield State’s Vice President of Development Keith Olson, said the program comes at the perfect time.  “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.”  

“It’s important that our students enter the workforce with real-world experience beyond the classroom”

Dean Bill Bennett

In addition to financial support, the industry is providing onsite lab space, paid summer internships, and adjunct professors with expertise in certain areas.  “It’s important that our students enter the workforce with real-world experience beyond the classroom,” said Dean Bill Bennett, of the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The four-year program culminates with a Bachelor of Science degree and offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the technical skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the modern mining industry. Courses cover a range of topics including mine ventilation, planning, safety management, mineral processing, and mine leadership and organization. Students will also benefit from hands-on training, state-of-the-art facilities, and partnerships with industry leaders.

The Mining Engineering Technology program at Bluefield State University has a rich history of preparing students for successful careers in mining and related fields. The decision to bring back the program comes as part of the university’s ongoing commitment to providing relevant, high-quality education that meets the needs of both students and industry.

Dr. Martin, emphasized the program’s impact on the local community, adding, “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.”

Classes began last week and enrollment for the Mining Engineering Technology program is now open. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early as interest in the program is expected to be high.

For more information about the Mining Engineering Technology program, please visit https://bluefieldstate.edu/miet.