New mine safety certificate at WVU prepares next generation of engineering experts

Students engage in an emergency preparedness training exercise at Academy for Mine Training at West Virginia University (WVU Photo/J. Paige Nesbit).

A new Mine Safety Practices and Health certificate in the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources addresses significant mining industry challenges by ensuring alignment to best practices in industry standards.

Story by Kaley LaQuea, Communications Specialist
Photos by J. Paige Nesbit, Director of Communications

Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

Developed within the Mining Engineering Department in collaboration with WVU Mining and Industrial Extension, West Virginia University’s program intends to fill this gap by offering the newest training curriculums available. These methods will help students develop the critical skills needed to create safe and healthy working environments in the rapidly-evolving mining industry.

The new program aims to prepare students for a variety of roles within mining operations by equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for entry-level positions. This program is the first in the US to offer a certificate in Mine Safety Practices and Health at the undergraduate level.

“We’re very excited about this new certificate,” said Qingqing Huang, Robert E. Murray Chair and associate professor of mining engineering. “Our department has over 150 years of experience educating students about the advancements in the science, safety and innovative technology of mineral extraction and processing. We look forward to utilizing our world-class experts and training capabilities to cultivate the next generation of engineers.”

Over 5 courses, students will build a foundation of advanced certifications like EMT training and mine emergency response preparedness through live simulations. They will learn the principles of surface and underground mining as well as how to employ the best safety practices.

Students will have the opportunity to apply learned skills in real-world scenarios through extensive experiential learning and extracurricular opportunities. WVU’s Mine Rescue team has secured several victories in recent years, earning first place for the second year in a row this past February at the international Intercollegiate Mine Emergency Response Competition.

“With the advancement of today’s mining technologies, it is critical to produce capable engineers who are thoroughly prepared for the challenges of an evolving industry,” Huang said. “A top priority at West Virginia University is cultivating a mining culture that emphasizes the importance of mine safety and health, paving the road for safe operations and production.”

Students can enroll in this 19-credit program starting in fall 2024. Top-performing students enrolled in this certificate program are eligible for scholarship opportunities. Learn more at: https://mine.statler.wvu.edu/undergraduate

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