The Montana Tech Mining Team has returned from the 47th International Collegiate Mining Competition, held at the University of Exeter’s Camborne School of Mines and the King Edward Mine Museum in England, with a haul of trophies and a renewed sense of pride. The university sent five teams, each comprising 15 men and 15 women, to compete in a series of grueling events designed to test their mining skills and knowledge. The results have sparked conversations about the future of mining education and the role of women in the industry.
The Orphan Girls Team, Montana Tech’s all-female squad, secured an impressive second place overall out of 10 competing teams. Their performance was nothing short of stellar, with first-place finishes in Jackleg Drilling, Track Stand, and Hand Steel. They also claimed second place in both the overall standings and Surveying, and third in Mucking. “We pushed each other to do better and learn more,” said a team member. “It was an incredible experience.”
The Butte Bells Team, another all-female group, also made their mark, securing third place in Hand Steel and fourth in Track Stand. Their performance, along with that of the Orphan Girls, has ignited discussions about the increasing prominence of women in mining. “Seeing these women compete at this level is inspiring,” said a fellow competitor. “It shows that the industry is changing, and that’s a good thing.”
In the Coed Division, the Picked Last Co-Ed Team defied expectations with a first-place finish in Hand Steel and a fourth-place finish in Gold Panning. Their success underscores the value of diversity and teamwork in mining operations.
The men’s teams also put on a strong showing. The Originals Team claimed first place in Hand Steel, second in Track Stand, and second in Surveying. Meanwhile, the Barnard Boys Team secured second place in Jackleg Drilling. These results highlight the depth of talent and the competitive spirit within Montana Tech’s mining program.
The success of Montana Tech’s teams at the international competition is not just a testament to their hard work and dedication but also a reflection of the evolving landscape of mining education. The university’s commitment to sending both men’s and women’s teams has paid off, with all teams finishing in the top three in at least one event. This achievement is a clear indication that the future of mining is diverse, inclusive, and highly competitive.
The results from this competition are likely to shape the development of mining programs worldwide. Universities may look to Montana Tech’s model of encouraging both men and women to participate in mining competitions, fostering a more inclusive environment. Additionally, the success of the Orphan Girls Team and the Butte Bells Team could inspire more women to pursue careers in mining, challenging the industry’s traditional gender norms.
As the mining industry continues to evolve, the lessons learned from this competition will be invaluable. The performance of Montana Tech’s teams serves as a reminder that diversity, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence are key to success in the mining sector. The industry would do well to take note and follow suit.
