Type of Miner?
Underground
Where are you currently mining?
Currently I'm at the kennecott underground.
How long have you been mining?
I'm getting into 10 years. Right out of school.
What do you find most rewarding about your job as a miner?
I find that the crew makes or breaks the job. It's extremely rewarding when you can put a bunch of people together and find success. It does not come easy but it's a great feeling when it all comes together.
What are some of the challenges you face regularly in your work, and how do you address them?
I find it really challenging anymore to just do it the way we were taught in the first place. Bolt, drill, muck, blast, and repeat. But I see now that there is more than that and the push for everyone going home in the same shape they showed up is more prevalent Than ever. And I can appreciate that.
Are there any particular skills, qualifications or advice that are essential for someone interested in becoming a miner?
A good attitude goes a long ways.
How do you see the future of mining evolving, and what opportunities or challenges do you anticipate?
I see things going in a lighter direction. It's sometimes hard to change but at the end of the tunnel there is light to be shined upon it all. The best we can do is just be open to it and offer improvements along the way.
What are your favorite things to do outside of work?
For me it's getting together with family and friends no matter what the occasion may be. Life is short. Unfortunately I got to find that out recently. My grandfather passed away on May 24th after a long fought battle with stage 4 cancer. I'm appreciative of the time we had. And I was lucky enough with the schedule that my wife and kids, and I got to spend tons of time with Him before he passed. He wasn't a miner but he was blue collar just like most of us and he dedicated his life to his family.
What led you to mining?
I moved to elko when I was a teenager. Most of the friends I made....their dad's were miners and from their love of it I became passionate that I would be a miner. And so I did. I don't regret a single second of my choice and I am very proud of what I do!
