As the Director of the University of Arizona School of Mining and Mineral Resources, I’ve seen firsthand the growing demand for both skilled professionals and public awareness about the mining industry. Arizona, particularly Southern Arizona, has long been recognized as a global leader in mining innovation. Our region has provided essential resources that fuel our economy, national security, and renewable energy advancements. But beyond the production of copper and other minerals, the future of this industry depends on educating the next generation of mining professionals and enhancing public understanding of the vital role mining plays in our everyday lives.
In 2024, the Tucson Metro Chamber, in partnership with the Arizona Mining Association and the University of Arizona School of Mining & Mineral Resources, conducted a comprehensive survey of Southern Arizona high efficiency voters. The results were telling: over 70% of respondents expressed strong support for increased mining education. This is not just a matter of preparing students for careers in the industry; it’s about fostering an informed public, one that understands where the materials they use every day come from, and the environmental, social, and economic implications of mining.
Mining as a Pillar of Arizona’s Economy and Innovation
Arizona’s mining sector has been a cornerstone of the state’s economy for decades. Copper, in particular, plays a crucial role in supporting the local economy and fulfilling global demands for clean energy technologies. Copper is essential in renewable energy systems like solar and wind, electric vehicles, electric transmission and energy storage, all of which are critical as we transition to a more sustainable future.
Southern Arizona is the epicenter of this mining innovation. Companies operating in the region are pioneering new technologies and methods to extract minerals in environmentally responsible ways, reducing the industry’s footprint while maximizing efficiency. These advancements wouldn’t be possible without a workforce that is both technically skilled and deeply committed to sustainability—a workforce that must be nurtured through robust education programs.
At the University of Arizona, our School of Mining & Mineral Resources is dedicated to supporting the interdisciplinary units and departments across campus that prepare students for this challenge. Collectively, the University offers some of the most comprehensive mining education programs in the country, and our research centers, such as the Center for Environmentally Sustainable Mining, the Lowell Institute for Mineral Resources, the Geotechnical Center of Excellence, the Global Mining Law Center, and the Mine Safety Center are at the forefront of developing solutions to the multi-faceted challenges facing the mining industry today.
Public Support for Mining Education
According to the 2024 Southern Arizona Survey, 88.5% of respondents believe it is important for Arizona students to learn about mining and the origins of the materials they use every day. This overwhelming support highlights the public’s recognition of the need for mining education, not just as a career path but as a critical component of understanding modern society. From the smartphones we carry to the electric grids that power our homes, mining provides the raw materials necessary for innovation.
The same survey revealed that 62.7% of respondents believe the State of Arizona should increase funding for post-secondary mining education. We are incredibly thankful for the support we have received from the Board of Regents, The University, and our elected officials. Continued investment in mining education is an investment in the future of our state. By supporting the development of new programs, expanding access to educational resources, and providing funding for research, Arizona can continue solidifying its position as a global leader in mining innovation.
The Role of Education in Sustainability and Innovation
Sustainability is not just a buzzword in today’s mining industry—it’s a necessity. The global demand for minerals is increasing as countries strive to meet their clean energy goals, but this must be balanced with responsible environmental stewardship. Mining education plays a critical role in achieving this balance. At the University of Arizona, we emphasize sustainable practices throughout the curriculum, from teaching the latest extraction technologies to understanding the long-term impacts of mining on local ecosystems.
In their respective degree programs in Mining Engineering, Economic Geology, Hydrology and other majors, and through our Sustainable Minerals Minor, students are not just learning how to mine—they are learning how to mine responsibly. They are being trained to become the next generation of engineers, geologists, hydrologists, environmental scientists, and policymakers who will shape the future of the industry. And this training is essential for maintaining public trust in mining operations, particularly in areas like Southern Arizona where historic industry operations have had both economic and environmental impacts.
A Path Forward for Southern Arizona
Southern Arizona is uniquely positioned to be a leader in both mining and mining education. The region’s rich mineral deposits, combined with a strong academic infrastructure and a supportive public, create an environment ripe for innovation. But to fully realize this potential, we must continue to ensure that our education system is adequately funded and that students are equipped with the skills they need to thrive in this evolving industry.
As the global demand for critical minerals increases, so does the need for a highly educated workforce to drive innovation and sustainability in the sector. The University of Arizona School of Mining & Mineral Resources is committed to meeting this challenge, but we cannot do it alone.
We need the continued support of policymakers, industry leaders, and the public to ensure that mining education continues to receive the funding and resources it requires. We also need to continue fostering partnerships between academic institutions, industry and communities to provide students with real-world experience and research opportunities that will prepare them for the challenges ahead.
As we look to the future, let’s remember that the success of Arizona’s mining industry is not just about what we extract from the ground—it’s about what we invest in our people. By supporting mining education, we ensure that Arizona remains a global leader in mining innovation and sustainability for generations to come.
