Type of miner?
Surface
Where are you currently mining?
88 Strip
How long have you been mining?
7 years
What is the most memorable or rewarding moment you've had in your mining career?
The most memorable moment in my coal mining career was the day I realized the strength of the men beside me. It wasn’t about the coal or the long hours, it was about brotherhood, hard work, and pride in what we do.
What's one thing you've learned on the job that has nothing to do with mining?One thing I’ve learned on the job that has nothing to do with mining is how much I rely on God’s protection. Every shift reminds me that life is fragile, and faith is what keeps me steady when everything else feels uncertain.
If you could trade places with anyone in the mining industry for a day, who would it be? why?
If I could trade places with anyone in the mining industry, it would be with the old-timers who came before us, the men who worked with little more than hand tools and grit. I’d love to see firsthand how they built the foundation for what we do today. They didn’t have the technology or safety we have now, but they had heart, courage, and pride that still inspires me.
What's the most surprising or unexpected thing you've ever found underground or at the mine site?
The most surprising thing I’ve found while working surface mines is just how much beauty there is in the job. Most people only see the dirt and the machinery, but when the sun comes up over a fresh-cut ridge, it’s something special. You really gain a new appreciation for God’s creation, even in a place built from rock and dust.
What's your favorite thing to do on your days off to relax and recharge?
My favorite thing to do on my days off is spend time with my beautiful wife and kids, and ride my Harley. There’s nothing better than good weather, open roads, and family time to remind me what all the hard work is for.
Share a safety tip:
Look out for the man beside you. Sometimes the smallest reminder or extra pair of eyes can prevent a tragedy. We all go down together, and we all deserve to make it home together.
