Mine Mechanic and Hecla Pathway

The Hecla Pathway and Mine Mechanic programs are available through the UAS Campus. To apply visit the website at: http://www.uas.alaska.edu/career_ed/mining/oe-mine-mechanic.html

UAS Center for Mine Training
(907)796-6120
career.ed@uas.alaska.edu
Technical Education Center 
1415 Harbor Way
Juneau, AK
99801
Mailstop: TEC1

Mine Mechanic (OE) / AAS Power Technology

UAS

The Mission of the UAS Center for Mine Training is to provide world-class workforce training in occupational fields leading to employment in the mining industry, with a special emphasis on expanding an Alaskan workforce for underground hard rock mining.

Most of today's mining is done with heavy equipment. Mines rely heavily on a well-trained crew of mechanics to keep that equipment running. 

UAS offers two programs that provide training for a career as a mine mechanic. One is an associate’s degree level program (Associate of Applied Science or AAS in Power Technology, Mine Mechanic emphasis), while the other is a lower level Occupational Endorsement (OE)*, in Power Technology (with Mine Mechanic emphasis).

We are currently renovating and expanding this program to enhance learning opportunities.

*An occupational endorsement is defined as a program of 9-30 credit hours, which offers training in a specific field.

Pathway to Mining Careers

UAS

The Mission of the UAS Center for Mine Training is to provide world-class workforce training in occupational fields leading to employment in the mining industry, with a special emphasis on expanding an Alaskan workforce for underground hard rock mining.

UAS created the Mining Occupations and Opportunities class in 2012 to introduce youth to careers in the mining industry, and entice them into the UAS mine mechanic programs. The course had 20 students the first year. The following year demand increased and it was offered, via distance education, to 75 students spread over 22 schools including in remote villages. This course is now the entry point to Hecla Greens Creek “Pathway to Mining Careers”. Hecla, which operates the Greens Creek mine near Juneau, is the primary supporter of the program, and has committed to hiring graduates of the program. Support from Hecla includes support of various components of the program such as Greens Creek Academy and job shadowing. Other mining companies in the region, Coeur Alaska and the Donlin Gold Project have also provided significant support.

We offer classes and training for people looking for work in the mining industry as well as upgrade training for those already employed in the mining industry.