Mining engineers face hazards, challenges

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For thousands of years man has mined the Earth for its riches. Today's mining operations, from huge earth-moving strip mines to shafts dug kilometres down into the earth, are located in all parts of the globe. Engineers who work to discover, evaluate, recover and process mineral deposits from the earth are called mining engineers.

Mining engineers develop and apply methods of finding and recovering metals, minerals and ores from the earth or the ocean floor.

Because of the complexities involved, mining engineers are professionals who have received at least a bachelor of engineering or science degree in mining engineering. Some engineers go on to earn a master's or doctoral degree in this discipline.

The University of Alberta in Edmonton offers a four-year under-graduate program in mining engineering through the Department of Mining, Metallurgical and Petroleum Engineerings. The program emphasizes computer techniques as applied to mining and features a comprehensive mine design project in the final two terms.

University studies include calculus, physics, engineering design, inorganic and analytic chemistry, geology, hydraulics and thermodynamics. Other areas involved are power system design, electricity, computer science, construction materials, structural design, systems engineering, material handling, mining methods, ventilation and safety and mineral processing.

Industrial organizations, economics, and management courses are also important. Admission into this faculty requires a high school diploma with an overall average of at least 70 per cent in Math 30/31, Physics 30, Chemistry 30, and English 30.

The complexities of a mining operation are staggering. Even before a shovel full of dirt is removed, mining engineers evaluate potential mineral and ore deposits by studying rock formations, water, soil and plant characteristics.

Once a site has potential for development the mining engineer will have to plan, design and develop the layout of the mine and choose the type of equipment that will be used in extraction. They also design support systems for the mine such as ventilation systems, for slope and roof stability, drainage systems and transportation systems like conveyor belts or rails for the shipment of bulk ore.

Ensuring safety in a mine is of utmost importance. Cave-ins, dust and gas explosions are some of the hazards that mine personnel have to be concerned about.

Mining engineers usually work a regular 40-hour work week and are some of the highest paid engineers. The starting salary for a recent graduate is in the range of $35,00-$36,000 per year. An experienced mining engineer can earn well over $80,00 per year.

Mining engineers should like action, adventure and out-of-doors.

Job prospects for this profession are good as the mining industry expects to enjoy a moderate increase from now until the next millennium.