The University of Utah has announced the endowment of the Western Mining Presidential Chair in Mine Safety. The $1.5 million endowment is being created through an effort led by  J. Brett Harvey, President and CEO of Consol Energy, and Greg Lang, President of Barrick Gold North America. “In establishing this Endowed Chair in Mine Safety, the University is sending an unmistakable message that the students who endeavor to acquire an education in the School of Mining not only will receive world-class training as mining engineers, but will graduate understanding that safety must be at the cultural core of any successful mining enterprise,” said Harvey. “This is what will be required of the engineering graduates if they are to become our industry’s future leaders.”  The new chair will be part of the university’s Department of Mining Engineering, in the College of Mines and Earth Sciences, and will be filled by someone with skill and experience in mining engineering, mine safety or a closely related discipline. Chair of the Department of Mining Engineering Michael G. Nelson says the creation of the program is long overdue. “We are so grateful to the executives of these two companies, and our other donors, for their concern for the people involved with this important Utah industry,” said Nelson. “Mining involves hazards that can be mitigated, and the knowledge gained and passed on through this endowment chair will do just that.”

The holder of the Chair in Mine Safety will provide specific instruction in the technology and practices of modern mine safety for university students, and the mining community at large. Frank H. Brown, dean of the College of Mines and Earth Sciences, is excited about the new mining techniques and preventative measures that are sure to come from the new chair. “The holder of this chair will conduct an active research program, emphasizing worker health and safety in the mining industry,” said Brown. “It’s more than just passing on the best mining practices already in place-it is hoped that, in addition, new life-saving mining techniques will be developed.”