The Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences Department hit the road in February 2026, bringing the excitement of geoscience, engineering, and exploration directly to classrooms across the Midwest. Undergraduate Advisor Matt Laird traveled to 5 schools, visited 15 classrooms, and connected with approximately 450 students to share what makes the world of geology, mining, and geophysics so impactful and so exciting.
From Michigan to Minnesota, students at Hudsonville, West Ottawa, Zeeland, Okemos, and Edina schools got a firsthand look at the incredible opportunities available through the GMES Department at Michigan Tech.
Throughout the trip, students explored what geo-careers really look like in today’s world. Matt highlighted how careers in geological engineering, mining engineering, geology, and applied geophysics combine science, technology, environmental stewardship, problem-solving, and adventure. Students learned how these fields contribute to everything from locating critical minerals and managing natural resources to environmental protection, infrastructure development, hazard mitigation, and cutting-edge research.
The impact of the visit was immediately noticeable in the classrooms. One teacher shared, “Your talk means a lot and it always perks a few kids’ interests into the geology field! It is awesome.” Another noted, “I mentioned that you’re coming and several were super intrigued by the career field as they learned a bit about it.”
“Students love and need to hear about all the career opportunities in the geology field!” was a common sentiment among teachers, emphasizing how important these conversations are for students exploring future pathways.
One of the biggest themes of the presentations was the future of geo-careers in an evolving technological world. Students were especially interested in learning how geoscience careers remain highly valuable and adaptable in the age of artificial intelligence. Through fieldwork, laboratory experimentation, proprietary data analysis, computational modeling, and hands-on problem solving, GMES careers continue to emphasize skills that technology enhances rather than replaces.
The presentations also gave students an inside look at the Michigan Tech experience. From studying the Keweenaw Fault that runs through campus to hiking billion-year-old lava flows tied to the Midcontinent Rift, GMES students are immersed in world-class geology from day one. Students discovered that first-year field trips can include exploring historic copper mines and learning directly from the unique landscape surrounding campus.
Matt shared examples of current students, alumni, and faculty research projects to show how GMES disciplines intersect with data science, remote sensing, environmental studies, engineering, and computational modeling. Students learned about opportunities to participate in undergraduate research, attend professional conferences, engage in international collaborations, and work on industry-sponsored senior design projects that tackle real-world challenges.
Another highlight for visiting classrooms was learning about the department’s supportive and close-knit environment. With a low 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio, access to renowned professors, excellent laboratory facilities, scholarship opportunities, and the Geology Learning Center, students saw how GMES emphasizes hands-on learning and personalized support. The department’s strong industry partnerships and impressive job placement outcomes also helped students envision meaningful and rewarding career pathways after graduation.
Of course, no outreach trip would be complete without some Michigan Tech spirit along the way. Students received GMES caps, shirts, stickers, magnets, and informational materials while learning about life in the Copper Country, from research labs and outdoor adventures to hockey games at the John Macinnes Ice Arena and skiing at Mt. Ripley.
Most importantly, the outreach trip sparked curiosity. Students asked thoughtful questions about earth systems, engineering challenges, environmental sustainability, field research, and prospective careers. For many, it was their first introduction to the diverse possibilities within geoscience and engineering disciplines.
“Four students for Geology have me in Astronomy next hour and were talking about geology still. Haven’t seen that before,” one teacher noted, reflecting the lasting enthusiasm sparked by the outreach visit.
By the end of the trip, nearly 450 students had been introduced to the exciting opportunities available through GMES at Michigan Tech, and inspired to see the world beneath their feet in an entirely new way.
Thank you to all the schools and classrooms that welcomed us so warmly and made space for meaningful, thoughtful conversations about the future of geoscience and engineering. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to connect with your students!