National Mining Association

08/28/2026

The University of Arizona is receiving $1.7 million from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop more efficient methods for extracting copper from ore. The investment will support new copper production technologies while advancing research and training at one of the nation’s leading mining schools. For more:

U of A is one of a handful of schools the US Department of Energy has given grants to help enhance production of metals like copper that are deemed essential for national security.

08/28/2026

On this episode of On Our Mine(s) This Week, President & CEO Rich Nolan breaks down the latest developments shaping America’s mining industry, from policy and permitting to mineral security, energy and the future of domestic mining.

08/28/2026

Global gas prices climb as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively shut, increasing coal’s importance to energy security. Plus, new federal funding supports domestic germanium production and mineral recovery technologies.

08/27/2026

U.S. Department of Energy is investing $10 million in seven projects aimed at unlocking new ways to recover and refine critical materials including rare earths, gallium and copper. From improving copper extraction to recovering gallium from existing industrial streams, these innovations could help expand domestic production and strengthen U.S. mineral supply chains. For more:

Selected projects will focus on rare earth elements, gallium and copper.

08/27/2026

A new federal partnership is putting strategic and critical minerals at the center of rebuilding America’s defense industrial base. The initiative will prioritize financing and support for domestic mineral production and other defense-critical supply chains, helping strengthen U.S. manufacturing capacity and national security. —>

The US is ramping up its defense strategy by empowering small manufacturers and investing in nuclear power. With the Smaller War Plants Commission and $2.2B in nuclear microreactor contracts, the focus is on minerals, manufacturing, and energy independence. How will this reshape the defense landscap...

08/27/2026

Komatsu expands a U.S. mining equipment maintenance hub as copper demand grows, the Pentagon backs a rare earth project in Brazil and coal shortages at dozens of Indian power plants highlight opportunities for U.S. producers.

08/26/2026

On this episode of Mining Matters, Montana Technological University Chancellor Johnny MacLean discusses the critical role America’s mining schools play in educating and preparing the next generation of mining professionals and why investing in these institutions is essential to the future of the industry. Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/9zAmUy2xWaM

08/26/2026

A strong domestic mining industry starts with a strong workforce. The U.S. Department of Energy's new $100 million PROSPECT initiative aims to double the number of graduates from America’s 14 accredited mining schools while building the engineers, scientists and skilled workers needed to strengthen U.S. mineral supply chains. For more:

TUCSON -- The University of Arizona is positioned to play a key role in a $100 million federal initiative aimed at strengthening mining education and building the nation’s critical minerals

08/26/2026

We’re hiring! NMA is seeking a full-time Regulatory Affairs Specialist to join our Washington, D.C. team and support our legal and regulatory priorities. If you’re interested in building a career in policy, regulation or law and supporting America’s mining industry, we want to hear from you. More information here:

Regulatory Affairs Specialist About The National Mining Association: America’s mining industry supplies the essential materials necessary for nearly every sector of our economy – from technology and healthcare to energy, transportation, infrastructure, and national security. The National Min...

08/26/2026

NMA member Resolution Copper has established a $54 million Tribal Trust to provide lasting support for 11 Tribal Nations in Arizona and New Mexico. The investment will support education, workforce development, cultural preservation and other community priorities for generations to come. —>

SUPERIOR, AZ – July 29, 2026 – Resolution Copper has provided $54 million to establish the Resolution Copper Tribal Trust, a perpetual endowment that will deliver annual funding to eleven Tribal Nations located in Arizona and New Mexico for cultural preservation, education, youth development, wo...