By: Steve Trussell, Executive Director of the Arizona Mining Association & Misael Cabrera, Director, University of Arizona School of Mining Engineering & Mineral Resources
Southern Arizona voters continue to show strong confidence in the industries and institutions shaping the region’s economic future. According to the fourth annual Southern Arizona survey conducted in partnership by the Arizona Mining Association and the University of Arizona School of Mining Engineering & Mineral Resources, voters overwhelmingly support copper mining and the continued investment in educational programs that prepare the next generation of skilled professionals.
Conducted October 13-19, 2025 among 400 high-efficacy voters, the survey highlights broad public recognition of the region’s economic drivers, the central role of copper in modern technology, and the importance of strengthening workforce pathways in high-demand fields like mining and mineral resources.
Voters Recognize Copper’s Central Role in Arizona’s Economy
This year’s results reaffirm the essential role copper mining plays in Southern Arizona’s economic landscape. General support for copper mining in Southern Arizona is at 61.8%, which is more than double the opposition at 29.7%. That support extends to specific projects as well, with 56.5% backing Hudbay’s Copper World project based on a general description.
These findings reflect a growing public understanding that copper is indispensable to today’s most important technologies, from renewable energy systems and electric vehicles to communication networks and national defense. Arizona supplies the majority of the nation’s newly mined copper, and voters recognize how responsible, well-regulated mining contributes to economic stability, skilled jobs, and reduced reliance on foreign imports.
Strong Public Support for Mining Education and Workforce Training
The survey also shows overwhelming enthusiasm for strengthening mining-related education. More than 90% of voters say maintaining a university offering mining education is important, and 63% support increasing state funding for post-secondary mining programs.
This continued support echoes results from last year and signals a growing awareness of how minerals shape modern life. Voters increasingly understand that developing the future workforce is essential not only for supporting the region’s economy but also for ensuring mining is carried out responsibly, sustainably, and with cutting edge innovation.
As educators and industry leaders, we’re encouraged to see the public embracing the connection between strong mining education programs and the region’s long-term success. Preparing students to become the next generation of engineers, geologists, environmental scientists, and technology innovators ensures that Arizona remains a national leader in mining excellence and sustainability.
A Community Focused on Long-Term Opportunity
While the survey reflects concern about various local challenges, voters consistently emphasize the importance of industries and institutions that support long-term opportunity. The strong backing for copper mining and mining education demonstrates confidence in sectors that create jobs, drive innovation, and provide essential resources for the technologies powering modern life.
This year’s survey results reaffirm a shared vision across Southern Arizona: a future where responsible mining, advanced education, and workforce development together anchor a vibrant, resilient regional economy. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and building the momentum voters have once again made clear they support.
