Student Organizations

The Department of Mining and Minerals Engineering hosts a number of active and widely recognized professional organizations and industry-related chapters, making our students some of the most active on campus.

Professional Organizations and Student Chapters

Burkhart Mining Society is Virginia Tech's student chapter for the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME) and is one of the oldest student chapters on campus. In addition to providing support for other department student clubs and organizations, Burkhart Mining Society members attend the SME's annual exhibits and organize trips to mine operations and businesses.

Student Chapter of the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (NSSGA) - an assoication representing the crushed stone, sand and gravel-or aggregates-industries.

Student Chapter of the International Society of Explosives Engineers (ISEE) - a professional society dedicated to promoting the safety, security and the controlled use of explosives in mining, quarrying, construction, manufacturing, demolition, aerospace, forestry, avalanche control, art, automotives, special effects, exploration, seismology, agriculture, law enforcement, and many other peaceful uses of explosives.

Virginia Tech Chapter of Women in Mining (WIM), a nationwide organization composed of individuals employed in, associated with, or interested in the mining industry.

Educational Programs

Government, Education and Mining (GEM) Program seeks to raise public understanding and appreciation for the important role that the minerals industry plays in improving the quality of life for people around the world. Participants in Virginia Tech's GEM program visit local public schools to teach kids aobut mining practices and operations.

Teams and Clubs

Virginia Tech Mining Competition Team - Members attend the annual International Intercollegiate Mining Competition which is held in various locations throughout the world. Team members participate in events that excercise "old school" mining methods and techniques, such as gold panning, mucking, and swede sawing.

Mine Rescue Team