Author: Vani Gandikota

Inspiring the Next Generation of Geoscientists: GMES Outreach Journey with Matt Laird

GMES Undergraduate Advisor, Matt Laird, presenting to an advanced geology class at Hudsonville High School

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.

GMES at the 2026 SME Conference: Innovation, Competition, and Connection in Salt Lake City

Students, faculty, & industry professionals gathered at the 2026 GMES Alumni Reception in SLC, Utah

This year, the Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences Department proudly participated in the 2026 SME Annual Conference & Expo in Salt Lake City, as faculty and students engaged with mining professionals, researchers, and industry leaders from across the country for a week of learning, collaboration, and networking.  

Celebrating Excellence in Teaching: Luke Bowman Recognized for Spring 2026

The strength of the GMES Department lies in its community, and this spring we’re proud to celebrate one of our own for his continued impact as an educator and mentor.

Please join us in congratulating Luke Bowman as one of only 54 instructors across Michigan Technological University to receive an exceptional “Average of 7 Dimensions” student evaluation score for Spring Semester 2026.

GMES Spring/Summer 2026 Graduation Celebration at the Rock House

GMES Students, Faculty, and Staff enjoying dinner with their families at the Rock House, during the Spring/Summer 2026 Graduation Celebration.

With degrees in hand and a major milestone achieved, our GMES Spring & Summer 2026 graduates came together at the Rock House / Mine Shaft in Houghton to celebrate their transition into the Michigan Technological University alumni community!

Congratulations, Spring & Summer 2026 Graduates!

GMES Students at Commencement. Wearing their black MTU cap and gowns.
GMES Students at Commencement

GMES is proud to announce and celebrate the accomplishments of our Spring & Summer 2026 graduates. These dedicated students have conducted research, completed rigorous coursework, and made meaningful contributions to our academic community. Their hard work and perseverance have prepared them to take the next step as professionals and researchers in the fields of geosciences, mining, and engineering. Please join us in congratulating the following graduate students:

Celebrating GMES Alumna Sienna Meekhof: 2026 AIPG Early Career Professional Award Recipient

Sienna Meekhof performing Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT)

The Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) is proud to congratulate alumna Sienna Meekhof (Geology, 2021) on receiving the 2026 AIPG John Stewart Memorial Early Career Professional Award, a prestigious national honor recognizing outstanding early career geologists who demonstrate leadership, service, and a commitment to advancing the profession.