The average wage in the mining sector in Alaska is about $100,000, which is twice the average wage for all other sectors combined. Additionally, due to growth and other factors, the mining sector has difficulty filling positions. In many cases, the training needed for these positions is very short. Therefore, in a paradigm shift for the institutions involved, partnerships have been formed between doctoral level mining program and community colleges, to create, continue/enhance training opportunities, so that the unemployed can take advantage of the opportunities that exist in the mining sector. The Human Resources and Workforce Development Committee (HRWDC) of the Alaska Miners Association (AMA) identified mill process operators, mechanics, and underground miners as three of the priority occupations. Therefore, this proposal seeks funding to create or sustain programs to award the following credentials 1) Mining Mill Operations (MMO) Occupational Endorsement (OE) 2) Underground New Miner 3) Mine Mechanic (OE) and Mine Mechanic (Associate’s). UAF will also create a mill process simulator, a training tool that currently does not exist anywhere in the world. Once developed, this tool will become part of the MMO program.
Lab During First Cohort of Mining Mill Operations OE
Mine Mechanic Program at UAS
UA-MAPTS Underground Mine Training
