Ciscomani Celebrates $20 Million DOE Investment to Power Arizona’s Mining Comeback
'This $20 million investment is a gamechanger for Arizona.'
Washington, D.C. - Representative Juan Ciscomani is celebrating the $20 million Department of Energy investment in the University of Arizona’s School of Mining Engineering and Mineral Resources.
"This $20 million investment is a gamechanger for Arizona," said Rep. Juan Ciscomani. "The Department of Energy and Interior has been a tremendous partner in recognizing Southern Arizona’s role in leading the resurgence of domestic mining. As one of Arizona’s Five C’s, copper is a cornerstone of our state’s economy, and the University of Arizona is leading the way in preparing the next generation of workers and advancing the technology we need to strengthen America’s critical mineral supply chain. This investment will help create opportunities for hundreds high-paying jobs, strengthen our workforce and keep Arizona at the forefront of domestic mining."
Leaders at the University of Arizona have also emphasized how important this $20 million investment is for the future of American critical minerals.
"This award is a tremendous milestone for the University of Arizona and for the future of American critical minerals," said Suresh Garimella, University of Arizona President.
"As one of the nation’s top mining schools, the University of Arizona is well positioned to help secure America’s critical mineral supply,” said Kray Luxbacher, head of the School of Mining Engineering and Mineral Resources. "This investment will strengthen workforce training and advance technologies that improve mining safety and efficiency. We are grateful to the Department of Energy for this award and to Congressman Ciscomani for his continued support of mining education and workforce development."
Ciscomani has consistently advocated for the resurgence of domestic mining as a central part of America’s effort to strengthen its critical mineral supply chain. Earlier this year, Ciscomani hosted a mining roundtable with Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, bringing together local leaders and stakeholders to discuss Southern Arizona’s mining industry, workforce and the need for greater federal investment. Since then, Ciscomani has continued elevating these priorities with federal leaders, helping turn a priority first raised by Arizona leaders into a $20 million investment that will strengthen the region’s mining industry and workforce.
Read local coverage by KVOA HERE.
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