The Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) is proud to recognize Bryce Baar as the 2026 GMES Department Scholar!
This honor is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and dedication to their field. Bryce’s passion for geological engineering, combined with his commitment to hands-on learning and collaboration, makes him a standout member of the GMES community. Representing the best of GMES, Bryce has also been nominated for the 2026 Provost’s Award for Scholarship.
Bryce is a third-year Geological Engineering student who joined Michigan Technological University in the Fall of 2023 from Hudsonville, Michigan. Since arriving on campus, he has distinguished himself as the top-performing student in the department. Faculty consistently recognize Bryce for his critical and creative thinking, as well as his strong communication and writing abilities.
An active member of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration (SME), Bryce has contributed to one of the most challenging and prestigious student competitions in the field, the SME Mine Design Competition. The “School of Minds” student mine design team achieved an impressive milestone this year by advancing to Phase 2, giving them the opportunity to present their work to a panel of industry professionals at the SME MINEXCHANGE Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Looking ahead, Bryce plans to expand his academic experience through field classes this summer, further strengthening essential hands-on skills. While he is still exploring his next steps, Bryce is considering paths in both graduate school and industry, with particular interests in geotechnical engineering and natural hazards.
When asked if he has any advice for incoming GMES students, Bryce encouraged others to stay curious and take full advantage of their surroundings.
“Get out and explore the local area as much as you can. By doing this, you not only get to take advantage of the abundant outdoor recreation available in the UP, but it will also enhance your understanding of local geologic processes learned about in class.” – Bryce
Bryce embodies the spirit of GMES, combining academic excellence, observational learning, and a passion for discovery. We congratulate him on being named the 2026 GMES Department Scholar and look forward to seeing all that he accomplishes in the future.