The University of Idaho and North Idaho College are teaming up to offer Idaho’s only Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering. This degree aims to train students for careers in sustainable mining operations. According to a press release from the University, this collaboration will support workforce development and drive economic growth in Idaho.
Students can choose to complete two years at North Idaho College before transferring to the University of Idaho or stay for the full four-year program at the UI campus in Moscow. The curriculum will cover essential topics like environmental practices, renewable energy, and mining safety. Students can focus on various areas, including sustainable mining, hydrogeology, and energy resilience.
This initiative responds to a growing demand for geological engineers, particularly with the reopening of the Bunker Hill Mine and the Sunshine Mine in the Silver Valley. As President Nick Swayne of North Idaho College noted, these developments are creating new opportunities.
Idaho is rich in minerals vital for national security and technology. The state, often referred to as “the Gem State,” plays a critical role in supplying these resources.
Mike Lowry, a professor at the University of Idaho, will lead this new program, working closely with faculty from both the College of Science and the College of Engineering. Suzanna Long, dean of the College of Engineering, expressed excitement about the new degree, emphasizing its importance for the future of Idaho’s mining industry.
According to a recent survey by the National Mining Association, about 80% of mining companies report having difficulty finding qualified workers. This degree aims to bridge that gap and ensure that Idaho’s mining sector remains strong.
For more details on the partnership and program specifics, check out the University of Idaho’s official announcement here.
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