WASHINGTON, D.C. — Higher Education and Workforce Development Vice Chair Burgess Owens (R-UT) and Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA) re-introduced the Mining Schools Act to expand mining and geological programs at U.S. colleges and universities, ensuring students are equipped to meet the nation’s energy demands and bolster our national security by increasing the workforce and capacity to mine critical minerals domestically.
“Utah miners, from Kennecott to Lisbon Valley, have helped build our state and this nation. Now, it’s time to invest in the next generation to keep America strong,” said Rep. Owens. “I’m reintroducing the Mining Schools Act to equip young men and women with the skills to power America’s energy future, secure our mineral independence, and keep good-paying jobs right here at home. Utah knows how to do mining the right way—this bill ensures we keep leading the way.”
“The growing demand for critical minerals has made it clear that we need a reliable domestic supply chain. To achieve this, we must invest in the next generation of engineers who will shape the future of modern transportation, appliances, and technology,” said Rep. Costa. “This legislation will open doors for colleges like Fresno State and CSU Bakersfield to expand their engineering programs, and create new pathways into the mining and minerals sector.”
“Ramping up American mining is a national imperative to meet the skyrocketing demand and secure our minerals future,” said Rich Nolan, president and CEO, National Mining Association. “This requires a modern mining workforce, and this bill supports efforts to educate, train, attract and retain the talent the mining sector needs for the future. Mining requires everything from engineering to advanced data and analytical sciences—fields that require diverse and specialized training. We applaud reintroduction of the bipartisan Mining Schools Act by Representatives Burgess Owens (R-Utah) and Jim Costa (D-Calif.) and urge swift action to pass this important legislation into law.”
The Mining Schools Act:
- Establishes a grant program for mining schools to receive funds to recruit students and carry out studies, research projects, and demonstration projects related to the production of minerals.
- Establishes the Mining Professional Development Advisory Board to evaluate applications and recommend recipients to the Secretary of Energy, as well as conduct oversight to ensure that grant funds are appropriately used.
The full text of the legislation is available here.
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