35 Mining Legacies and Environmental Remediation in the Southwest
This session focuses on environmental impacts of historical and modern mining, with an emphasis on remediation practices, community partnerships, and innovative approaches to reclaiming and monitoring impacted landscapes.
Wednesday, 20 May 2026
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Alvarado C
Building a Workforce-Driven Mining Technician Program at a Two-Year Institution: A Case Study from the College of Western Idaho (CWI)
Paper number: 35-1
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 8:20 AM – 8:40 AM
Authors
Abstract
Mining in the western United States faces a growing workforce shortage driven by retirements, a limited pipeline of technically trained entry-level professionals, and a rapidly expanding demand. The College of Western Idaho (CWI) has developed and deployed a Mining Technician Associate of Science degree focused on applied geoscience, workforce readiness, and strong industry alignment.
The program grew from a small, field-focused geology curriculum with regional relevance and strong transfer partnerships but limited direct workforce pathways. Early development was driven by sustained collaboration with Idaho-based mining companies, professional societies (particularly SME Boise), four-year transfer partners, and state advocacy groups. Subsequent NSF-ATE support strengthened curriculum development, instructional infrastructure, and assessment while preserving the program’s workforce-driven mission.
Our curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning and professional practice through coursework in core logging, drilling and sampling methods, geologic mapping, hydrology, GIS, environmental compliance, and mining operations, paired with MSHA certification. Instructional strategies include project-based labs, industry site visits, applied field experiences, and direct mentorship from practicing professionals.
Early indicators of success include increased enrollment, high student engagement, a significant increase in paid internships, job placement with regional mining operations, and growing recognition of CWI as a reliable workforce pipeline. This case study presents a replicable model for two-year institutions and highlights the value of collaboration among community colleges, industry partners, and professional societies in addressing regional workforce needs.
Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 4
doi: 10.1130/abs/2026RM-410520
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