Society for Mining, Metallurgy, & Exploration (SME)

The 45th Ground Control Conference gives you the chance to participate in a forum designed to promote communication in ground control research among consultants, regulators, manufacturers, and mine operators to expedite solutions to ground control problems in mining. Reserve your spot here: www.groundcontrolmining.com

The August issue of Mining Engineering, now online, provides a look at the historic Lucky Friday Mine in Idaho and how the underhand closed bench method has helped position the mine, and Hecla, well for a time of high silver prices. This issue also includes a look at an innovative in situ mining approach underway at the Florence Copper project in Arizona.
See the full issue online now: https://tinyurl.com/SME-ME-2026

U.S. President Donald Trump will convene executives from some of the world’s largest mining companies at the State Department on Friday as his administration intensifies efforts to secure domestic and allied supplies of critical minerals, a cornerstone of its national security and industrial policy.

Read more: https://tinyurl.com/t77va5ne

If you love a good read (and by that, we mean flotation theory, tailings management, or the details of rock mechanics), you’re in the right place.

In honor of National Book Lover’s Day, enjoy 20% off all SME books, eBooks, and bundles. Whether you're sharpening your expertise, mentoring the next generation, or solving tomorrow’s challenges, there’s something here to move your work forward.

Browse industry titles and save through August 15 when you use code BookLover26 at checkout: https://tinyurl.com/2pf9vtd6

Each year at the 45th Ground Control Conference, mining professionals gather to share research, discuss real-world challenges and explore practical approaches to ground control. The result is a stronger professional community and valuable takeaways attendees can apply in their work.

Thank you to Jennmar, Syd Peng, and the silver sponsors for helping support this important industry event and the connections and learning opportunities it provides.

Explore the sponsor lineup and conference details: www.groundcontrolmining.com

PE Day is August 5: a reminder of the impact licensed engineers make across the industry.

If earning your PE has been on your radar, consider this your moment to take the next step. The credential not only validates your expertise, but opens the door to new roles, leadership opportunities, and greater influence in your work.

The SME PE Review Course is here to support that journey with focused, expert-led preparation.
Start your path forward: https://tinyurl.com/ywe56ckx

The U.S. has relied on foreign sources for one of its most important defense minerals. Could a new pilot plant help change that?

Perpetua Resources, the U.S. Army and Idaho National Laboratory have launched a pilot-scale processing plant designed to advance domestic production of antimony trisulfide. The facility will process material from Idaho's Stibnite Gold Project as part of a broader effort to establish a secure, end-to-end U.S. antimony supply chain.

As demand for critical minerals grows, projects like this could play an important role in reducing reliance on foreign sources while strengthening domestic manufacturing and defense capabilities.

Read the full story from Mining Engineering: https://tinyurl.com/5xc8tyd9

What role do you think domestic antimony production will play in strengthening the United States' critical minerals supply chain?

Chosen for their peer-reviewed papers, connections to the ground control industry, and ability to connect with our audience through region-specific topics, the 45th Ground Control Conference speakers are sure to expand your horizons and provide insights and knowledge you can use in your day-to-day operations.
Reserve your spot here: www.groundcontrolmining.com