In 2024, Coronado Global Resources Inc. partnered with Bluefield State University to help relaunch the University’s Mining Engineering program, creating a pathway for students to pursue careers within the mining industry while building a future pipeline of engineering talent for Coronado’s operations.
The partnership includes annual financial contributions from Coronado to support student scholarships, paid internship opportunities across Coronado’s operations, and collaboration on curriculum development and adjunct instruction through Coronado’s Engineering team.
Since the partnership began, 13 students have enrolled in the Bluefield State mining program and are now completing their fourth semester of study. With support from Coronado, 12 of the planned 18 mining curriculum courses are now established, with the remaining six courses scheduled for introduction during the 2027 academic year.
The students have also established a Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME) chapter at Bluefield State University and have attended industry events in Salt Lake City, Charleston and Lexington. In addition, they are active members of the West Virginia Coal Mining Institute and have been featured in industry publications including Coal Age Magazine, Mining People and Mining Engineering.
During the summer of 2026, three students from the program will complete internships with Buchanan Minerals while also receiving direct scholarships through Coronado’s partnership with Bluefield State. Students are also working alongside other universities to establish a Bluefield State mine rescue team made up of mining engineering students.
As the program continues to grow, the partnership between Coronado and Bluefield State University is helping develop the next generation of mining professionals by providing students with meaningful educational and industry opportunities, while strengthening Coronado’s long-term succession and workforce planning efforts.
