How important is the mining industry to Nevada?

Nevada has long stood as the nation’s leading mining jurisdiction. We are at the forefront of mineral extraction and production, crucial for 21st-century needs, positioning us as a forward-focused industry. Our role is pivotal in laying the foundation for green technology trends and transition, contributing to a sustainable future.

In 2022, our sector contributed a total economic output of US$12.7 billion and a US$4.9 billion contribution to the state’s GDP. We achieved this with just 1% of Nevada’s workforce, demonstrating remarkable efficiency. The approximately 36,000 mining-related employees earn wages double the state average, totaling around US$3 billion, creating a substantial economic impact throughout Nevada.

How is the labor shortage affecting the industry?

Despite offering attractive salaries, finding qualified individuals to fill positions has proven challenging, exacerbated by the remote locations of mining sites. Over the past two decades, the closure of mining schools in the US has contributed to a shortage of professionals, including geologists, environmental scientists, mining engineers, and metallurgists. The impact of these closures is now evident as the industry experiences a resurgence, emphasizing the pressing need for skilled personnel.

Is the labor shortage due to misconceptions about mining, and how does the NVMA bridge this gap?

A recent study focusing on individuals aged 15 to 30 revealed a notable reluctance to work in the mining industry, a sentiment attributed to misconceptions. The industry is often perceived through a historical lens. In reality, the sector has evolved significantly, with enhanced safety measures and increased female representation.

One of the most effective tools for dispelling misconceptions about the mining industry is organizing mine tours. By taking individuals, including teachers, through workshops and students on field trips to active mine sites, we provide firsthand exposure to 21st-century mining practices. The NVMA, in collaboration with the Nevada Division of Minerals, has been hosting annual teacher workshops for nearly four decades, updating them yearly to align with state curriculum standards.

How is Nevada poised to lead the energy transition in the US?

Nevada boasts the only operational lithium mine in the US, and the McDermott Caldera presents a promising future for lithium discovery.

Vanadium, recognized for its potential in energy storage, now has an operational mine in central Nevada. Copper is a vital resource in which Nevada is the leading producer. Ongoing exploration reveals other metals and minerals crucial for emerging technologies, emphasizing the continuous nature of inquiry in Nevada’s diverse landscape.

Can the US government do something else to help secure its critical minerals supply chain?

A crucial consideration lies in carefully managing land use on public lands. The federal government faces the challenge of balancing various interests when withdrawing land for purposes such as solar production, military operation, or wilderness status. While such withdrawals serve specific objectives, they limit access to potential mineral resources, impacting future production.

We operate within a robust environmental regulatory system in the USA, particularly in Nevada. Local and federal governments provide extensive oversight to ensure responsible environmental practices. However, this level of environmental control is not universal in other jurisdictions and countries.