Geological and Mining Engineering and Science News

Category: Students

Learn Geology Where it Happens: The Natural Wall and GE3100

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A famous geological spot, the Natural Wall (located on private property!), is a resistant bed of the Jacobsville Sandstone that has been turned on its side to nearly vertical. This sandstone, a bacon-looking rock, is a Global Heritage Stone Resource (GHSR). This initiative aims to expand the acknowledgment of stones used in constructing heritage sites in emerging countries. The GHSR designation is a scientific effort to promote the geological understanding, utilization, and preservation of historically significant natural stones worldwide. This designation is overseen by the Heritage Stone Subcommission of the International Union of Geological Sciences in collaboration with the International Association for Engineering Geology and the Environment.

Michigan Tech students gain practical, hands-on experience visiting the Natural Wall in their Depositional Systems (GE3100) lab. Learn more about this unique geological feature, and explore our list of current undergraduate and graduate courses the GMES Department offers.

Jacob Ojala, a junior in geological engineering from Hancock, Michigan, with a minor in aerospace, is seen leaning against the wall.

More about GE3100 – Explore the dynamic world of sedimentary processes and learn to decode the Earth’s history through sedimentary rocks, climate, sea level, and tectonic shifts.

  • What majors require it? Geology, Applied Geophysics, and Geological Engineering. Forestry can use as an Environmental Directed Elective.
  • How many credits? 3 
  • Semesters offered? Fall 
  • Prereqs? Understanding the Earth (GE2000), Intro to Petrology (GE2310)

The instructor is Jeremy Shannon, a GMES Teaching Professor. Jeremy earned his BS in Geological Engineering from MTU in 1994, his MS in Geology in 1996, and his Ph.D. in 2006. He has also instructed courses such as GE2000 Understanding the Earth, GE2100 Environmental Geology, GE3050 Structural Geology, and GE4090 Field Geophysics.

Catalog Description: Introduction to sedimentary processes and their products. Investigates the physical processes controlling sedimentation along with principles of correlation and interpretation of strata. Focuses on interpreting sedimentary rocks as a record of climate, sea level, and tectonic change.

Do you need help with the material? The Geo Learning Center is here to help!

Birds-eye view of Jeremy Shannon with students in his GE3100 lab investigating the Natural Wall in Calumet, Michigan, during fall 2024.

Standing tall and showcasing geological history, the Natural Wall is a striking example of the Jacobsville Sandstone, a Global Heritage Stone Resource. Michigan Tech students get hands-on experience exploring this unique formation in their GE3100 lab, unlocking the secrets of Earth’s past through sedimentary rocks and processes. Find this interesting? Read on to learn how the Depositional Systems class may interest you!

Photo courtesy of Emily Gehrke, a geology undergraduate student.

This is private property, so kindly avoid trespassing. Interested in learning more? Apply now. 

Sources:
https://www.mtu.edu
https://www.geo.mtu.edu/KeweenawGeoheritage/The_Fault/Nat_Wall.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxspwJDNz48
https://www.unesco.org/en/iggp/igcp-projects/637
https://www.iugs.org/
https://iaeg.info/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-X3EE_jNDRg
https://www.copperrange.org/natural.htm

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From High School Advanced Geology (HSAG) to GMES Student Spotlight

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Meet Miah: A Passion for Geosciences and the Outdoors at Michigan Tech

Miah Mol

This fall, GMES welcomed a new member to the department: Miah Mol, an undergraduate student from Hudsonville, Michigan, pursuing a degree in geology and applied geophysics with plans to graduate in 2028. Discover how taking High School Advanced Geology (HSAG) in high school prepared Miah for success in geology at Michigan Tech. Her Q&A highlights the beauty of the campus, the GMES department’s excellence, and the opportunities available to proactive students.

Q: How did HSAG impact your decision to study geosciences or engineering?

A: Taking HSAG in high school solidified my want to study geosciences in college and made me 10 times more excited for my future in geology!

Q: Why did you choose Michigan Technological University?

A: The location is absolutely gorgeous, and there is so much to do outdoors, no matter the weather. The GMES department is also top-notch compared to most other universities.

Q: How did HSAG help you succeed at MTU?

A: Taking HSAG allowed me to advance into higher-level GMES classes during my first year, putting me a year ahead of most other GMES majors.

Q: What is the best advice to give a current HSAG student?

A: Work hard to succeed in your HSAG class and get college credit. It is 100% worth it!

Q: What do you like best about the Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences at Michigan Tech?

A: What I love most about the GMES department is the abundant research opportunities.

Q: What’s a standout story or lesson you’ve gained during your journey with GMES? 

A: In the GMES department, I have learned that if you know what you want, you can ask for it, and GMES can make it happen; you just need to take the first step!

Miah is enjoying her time in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Miah takes in the Northern Lights.
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Congratulations, Fall 2024 Graduates!

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Completing a college degree requires tremendous effort, dedication, and sacrifice, and you’ve made it happen. Congratulations on your success!

The Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences is immensely proud of your well-deserved achievement. This is a momentous occasion and a testament to your dedication and perseverance. You should feel proud of your accomplishments and the bright future that awaits you.

A moment from the MTU 2024 spring graduate commencement, captured by Kaden Staley.

Master of Science Degrees Awarded Fall 2024

  • Large, Conor  MS Geology, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Sanchez Aguilar, Jhuleyssy  MS Geological Engineering, Advised by Snehamoy Chatterjee
  • Kunle, Bejide  MS Geology, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Targbwe, Rapheka  MS Mining Engineering, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Addai, Charles MS Mining Engineering, Advised by Snehamoy Chatterjee
  • Wiafe, Benitta MS Mining Engineering, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Cocke, Ryan MS Geology, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Donkoh, Isaac (M50484414) MS EMG, Advised by Luke Bowman
  • Yeboah, Maxwell Yeboah (M33730552) MS EMG, Advised by Luke Bowman

Bachelor of Science Degrees Awarded Fall 2024

  • Seth Farmer, B.S. Geology
  • Noah Hodson, B.S. Mining Engineering (Cum Laude)
  • Tanner McDonald, B.S. Geology
  • Anton Smirnov, B.S. Geology

Certificate Graduates

  • Locklear, Dakota Geoinformatics
  • Milanzi, Nyasha  Geoinformatics
  • Kavousi, Sara Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red
  • Yeboah, Maxwell Yeboah  Geoinformatics
  • Odoh, Izuu  Geoinformatics
  • Krier, Jacob  Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red
  • Krier, Jacob  Geoinformatics
  • Brodowski, Ella Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red (not in GMES)
  • Large, Conor Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red
  • Aghaei, Nelly Natrl Hazds & Disaster Rsk Red
  • Kunta, Rishitha Geoinformatics

Award & Scholarship Recipients

  • Outstanding GTA Award Sananda Ray
  • Outstanding Scholar Jhuleyssy Sanchez Aguilar
  • Avery Spalding Clarissa Gordon DeCleene 
  • Rapheka Targbwe WAAIME Scholarship
  • Oden Horne WAAIME Scholarship
  • Alice Schmaltz 2024 Copper Club Scholarship
  • Gustavo Bejar Lopez 3MT & Nat
  • Natalie Sorensen 2024 AIPG Undergraduate Scholarship
  • Konraad VanDyke AIPG Michigan Section Mozola Scholarship

Take a moment to reflect on all you have accomplished and the invaluable support you’ve received along the way. Your success is a testament to your hard work and the encouragement of those around you. Congratulations again to the graduates, and best wishes for a bright and prosperous future!

Kaden Staley documents the joy of MTU’s 2024 spring graduate commencement.
Spring 2024 undergraduate commencement ceremony.


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Geoinformatics Graduate Certificate Ask and Answer with Nyasha Milanzi

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Connect with Nyasha on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nmilanzi/

Nyasha Milanzi, MS Sustainable Communities, 2025

Advisor: Chelsea Schelly
Home City: Harare, Zimbabwe

Nyasha pursued the Geoinformatics Graduate Certificate to enhance her spatial data analysis skills and address critical environmental challenges like climate change and wildfires. One highlight was analyzing the historic John Snow cholera data, which revolutionized public health research and paved the way for disease prevention and drug development advances. She also explored COVID-19 data, examining the varied impacts of state policies, a particularly relevant topic given that more than half of her undergraduate studies took place during the pandemic.   Equipped with GIS, Python, and statistical tools, she plans to continue researching and working on projects that improve health and economic well-being in underserved communities. She also plans to pursue a PhD in the future. Keep reading to learn how this program can elevate your career and empower you to solve global environmental issues!

Q: What GMES Graduate Certificate will you receive this December 2024?

A: Geoinformatics

Q: What motivated you to pursue this certificate?

A: I wanted to enhance my spatial environmental data analysis, management, and analysis skills. 

Q: What were the most valuable skills or knowledge you gained?  

A: I discovered the power of maps as tools to solve some wicked environmental challenges of our generation, such as climate change and its associated impacts, such as wildfires. 

Q: What part of the coursework did you enjoy the most?  A: I loved working with interesting datasets. One of the most memorable was the John Snow dataset from 19th-century England, which provided crucial evidence that cholera was a waterborne disease. This groundbreaking discovery revolutionized public health research and paved the way for disease prevention and drug development advances.

Connect with Nyasha @afroscicomm on Instagram: instagram.com/afroscicomm/

Q: After completing the certificate, do you feel more confident in a particular skill or area?  

A: Yes, I’m very confident in analyzing environmental data using a combination of Python Scripts, GIS, and Statistics. 

Q: What’s your next step after completing this program?  

A: I hope to continue to apply the skills in a role I will secure after my Master’s, as well as in individual and independent research I plan to do in Food, Energy, and Water Systems

Q: Do you plan to pursue any further education or certifications?  

A: Yes. I see myself pursuing a PhD and using some of the tools in my research.

Q: Would you recommend this program to others? If so, why?  A: Yes. If you like programming, GIS, and solving environmental challenges, this certificate is for you.

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Building connections, one marshmallow, bracelet, and cup of cocoa at a time!

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The Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences Department (GMES) is home to a close-knit community of undergraduate and graduate students in mining engineering, geology, geological engineering, and geophysics. While we may be a smaller department, we pride ourselves on fostering meaningful connections among our students. Whether through game nights, campfire marshmallow roasting, tea times, or movie nights, we repeatedly prove that GMES truly rocks!

On Tuesday, December 3rd, GMES welcomed all Huskies to our Atrium for a day of creativity and connection. We created a warm and inviting atmosphere with hot cocoa, brownies, and friendship bracelet supplies. The event had a fantastic turnout, and we hope the memories made will remind everyone of their cherished time at MTU for years to come.

A woman, Angela, stands in front of large windows with a view of the outdoors, holding a steaming cup of hot cocoa in both hands. She is gazing contentedly, with soft natural light highlighting her face and casting gentle shadows behind her.
Angela Amoh, who expects to graduate with her MS in mining engineering next fall (2025), tastes the hot cocoa.
Jhuleyssy Liesseth Sánchez Aguilar, who completed her MS in geological engineering this month, stands next to MTU Senate President Robert Hutchinson from the College of Business.
Audrey Fall (left) and Sarah Woodworth (right) are majoring in geology. Are you following @mineral_rescue on Instagram?
Jhuleyssy and Sarah chat while they create bracelets.
Pictured left to right: Sara Kavousi, Benjamen Udota, and Angela Amoh.
MTU beaded bracelets.
December 3rd, 2024.
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Geoinformatics Graduate Certificate Ask and Answer

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Rishitha Kunta poses for a picture.

Rishitha Kunta, MS Mining Engineering, 2025
Advisor: Luke Bowman
Home City: Karimnagar, INDIA

Keep reading to discover Rishitha’s insights on the Geoinformatics Graduate Certificate. This program provides a unique opportunity to master GIS, remote sensing, and spatial data visualization, equipping you for meaningful roles in mining and resource management through hands-on experience.

Q: What certificate(s) will you receive this December 2024

A: Geoinformatics

Q: What motivated you to pursue this certificate?

A: I am motivated to pursue this certificate because I want to integrate geospatial analysis with the mining industry, leveraging spatial data for resource location, operational planning, and environmental assessment. I am also interested in mastering GIS and remote sensing to promote responsible mining, site analysis, and land reclamation.

Q: What were the most valuable skills or knowledge you gained?  

A: The most valuable skills gained include advanced proficiency in GIS software for mapping ore deposits, terrain assessment, and environmental impact analysis. Additionally, expertise in remote sensing techniques supports mineral exploration and monitoring changes over time. A strong understanding of spatial databases and data visualization is also essential for tracking, analyzing, and presenting mining site data effectively.

Q: What part of the coursework did you enjoy the most?  

A: Learning how to apply geoinformatics to real-world challenges and all the lab sessions, where I learned many new techniques.

Captured in the heart of Downtown Houghton, Rishitha stands against the wintery night scene with the iconic bridge and water glowing behind her.

Q: After completing the certificate, do you feel more confident in a particular skill or area?  

A: I feel more confident in a particular skill or area after completing the certificate. I have Improved my ability to interpret spatial data related to terrain, ore quality, and environmental factors and enhanced my skills in creating accurate, detailed maps that communicate critical information for decision-making in mining.

Q: What’s your next step after completing this program?  

A: The next step involves pursuing roles like GIS Analyst, Mining Geospatial Technician, or Environmental Consultant in the mining sector. I plan to work on projects involving geospatial data for mineral exploration, resource management, and environmental impact assessments while building expertise through field projects or internships.

Q: Do you plan to pursue any further education or certifications?  

A: Yes. I plan to do additional certifications in mining GIS, remote sensing for mineral exploration, or environmental assessments in resource extraction.

Q: Would you recommend this program to others? If so, why?  A: Yes, I recommend this program to anyone interested in this kind of stuff. This geoinformatics program offers hands-on training directly applicable to mining and many other fields, providing tools for spatial analysis essential to the field. The practical focus equips you with software and data interpretation skills that are highly demanded for responsible and efficient practices. It is also highly recommended for anyone interested in integrating spatial data with mining, as it covers technical skills and industry-relevant applications.

Photo of a view from Cliff Drive on Michigan Tech’s campus provided by Rishitha Kunta.
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Recognizing Excellence: A Tribute to Fall 2024 GMES Outstanding Awardees

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Sananda Ray received the Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award, recognizing her teaching performance for Computational Geosciences (GE3250) in the spring 2024 semester. Sananda is a Ph.D. candidate in geophysics with plans to graduate next year under the guidance of her advisor, Radwin Askari. She joined us in the summer of 2021 from Cooch Behar, India. She shares some of her insights on MTU in this Q&A. View her publications at this link.

Jhuleyssy Liesseth Sánchez Aguilar has been awarded the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Scholarship, which recognizes her exceptional academic performance. Jhuleyssy expects to complete her MS in geological engineering this month, December 2024, under the guidance of her advisor, Snehamoy Chatterjee. She is firmly committed to inspiring the next generation of geologists and engineers. She joined us in the spring of 2023 from Cajamarca, Peru, as part of the Fulbright Perú and Newmont ALAC programs.

Sananda and Jhuleyssy pose for a photo in celebration of their accomplishments.

The GMES Department is honored to recognize such outstanding students! A certificate of recognition for these awards will be presented at the Graduate Research Colloquium Banquet held this spring. While these awards are not monetary, the recipients should feel honored by the recognition of their accomplishments. Way to rock, ladies!

Sananda Ray is pictured presenting her research poster at the American Geophysical Union (AGU) Fall Meeting in 2023.
Jhuleyssy Liesseth Sánchez Aguily defended her geological engineering master’s research on December 2nd, 2024.
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GMES Student Internship Q&A: Rapheka Yah Targbwe

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GMES Student Internship Q&A: Rapheka Yah Targbwe

Rapheka Yah Targbwe, MS Mining Engineering 2024
Home City: Harbel LIBERIA



Rapheka Targbwe spent her summer as an intern at Freeport McMoRan, diving into the world of Short-Range Planning. Her main responsibility? Developing a monthly production schedule—a key component of keeping operations running smoothly! Beyond the technical skills, Rapheka was inspired by the incredible teamwork she saw throughout the industry. And here’s the cherry on top: she’s earning her MS degree after just one impressive year as a Husky! Read on to see how her experience could inspire you.

Q: Where did you intern?
A: Freeport McMoRan, Safford Operations in Arizona

Q: When did you intern?
A: Summer 2024.


Q: What were your key responsibilities during your internship?
A: As the short-range planning intern, my primary responsibility was to
develop a monthly production schedule from April to December 2025. This entails forecasting and resource (shovel) allocation, which was part of my project.


Q: What surprised you most about working in the industry?
A: I was surprised by how interdependent the industry is. Every department relies on each other to ensure that production goals are met. Mine planning engineers relied on information from the geologists before making a plan, and drill and blast engineers needed information from mine engineers, the slopes stability department, or mine operations. It was really amazing to see and understand the amount of teamwork that goes into mine production.

Q: Did your internship give you a better understanding of any specific processes or technology?
A: I knew little about short-range planning or leach pad stacking before my internship. Now, I understand how these processes work and can be implemented in the mining industry.

Q: What kind of hands-on experience did you gain in the field, labs, or sites?
A: My project enabled me to perform proper data visualization and analysis.



Q: What aspect of the internship did you find most rewarding or valuable?
A: The most valuable part of my internship was the people I met and worked with. From my fellow interns, mentors, and supervisors to the entire mine engineering team, they were just amazing people to work with. They respected my ideas and opinions and didn’t make me feel like “I was just an intern.” The entire work environment was phenomenal. I loved it!


Q: Did your experience change your perspective on the industry or your future career goals?
A: I’ve always wanted to be a mining engineer who’s well-versed in every or most aspects of the industry. My internship gave me a clearer picture of where I want to be – mine planning and design.

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Small but Mighty: GMES Department at Michigan Tech Earns AGU Bridge Program Recertification

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The Michigan Technological University campus before sunset on a summer evening, as seen from the vantage point of Mont Ripley’s front yard with purple lupins in the foreground.
MTU campus before sunset on a summer evening, as seen from Mont Ripley’s front yard.

We are thrilled to announce that the Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) at Michigan Technological University has been awarded recertification in the prestigious American Geophysical Union (AGU) and Inclusive Graduate Education Network’s (IGEN) Bridge Program. This recognition underscores our commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community in the Earth and space sciences.

The AGU Bridge Program plays a crucial role in broadening participation in geosciences by supporting underrepresented students as they pursue graduate studies. Through this partnership, our department continues to create an environment where all students can thrive, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the field.

What does recertification mean? Recertification is a testament to the strength of our program and the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students. Acceptance decisions were based on a rigorous external review, annual reports, and evaluations by Bridge Program staff. These assessments highlighted the strengths of our application and offered valuable feedback to guide us in planning for the next five years.

Our renewed partnership extends through December 31, 2029. Along with the recertification, we’ve committed to:
– Mentorship Training—Faculty involved in the Bridge Program will undergo mentorship training to ensure we continue providing our students with the highest level of support.
– Student Support Through Graduation—We pledge to support all current and future students admitted through the Bridge Program, even beyond the duration of our partnership.

These new requirements align with the Bridge Program’s evolving practices and reinforce the shared mission to empower underrepresented students in geosciences.

This recertification is a significant milestone for a small department within a large engineering school. It reflects our ability to maintain high standards and our passion for cultivating an inclusive and supportive academic community. We are proud to stand alongside other Bridge Program institutions in advancing diversity and equity in the geosciences.

This achievement would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the GMES faculty and staff, as well as the incredible students who make our department so vibrant and inspiring. Together, we are shaping the future of Earth and space sciences! Are you ready? Apply now.

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Ask and Answer with GMES Student Sananda Ray, Ph.D. Geophysics, 2025

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GMES Student Spotlight Q&A:
Sananda Ray, Ph.D. Geophysics, 2025
Home City: Cooch Behar, INDIA
Advisor: Dr. Radwin Askari

Sananda’s publications.

Sananda Ray is pictured with Volcán de Fuego, Guatemala, in the summer of 2022 when she had an opportunity to join the field group led by Dr. Greg Waite and geology Ph.D. candidate Gustavo Bejar Lopez.

Get to know our students. Sananda Ray is a Graduate Research Assistant. She loves photography (she took the image of the Northern Lights!), traveling, family, friends, and volcanoes, to name a few. Her favorite class so far at MTU has been Volcanic Seismology with Dr. Greg Waite. Sananda says the best place to eat off-campus is the Ambassador. She has excellent taste in pizza and graduate programs!

Q: Why did you choose to attend MTU?

A: When looking for PhD positions, the program and the project aligned with my research goals. 

Q: Do you have a favorite class or professor so far?

A: Dr. Greg Waite and Volcanic Seismology.

Q. What is your research about?

A: My research focuses on experimental geophysics. I generate and analyze long-period events—commonly observed in volcanoes—using a controlled laboratory setup to bridge the gap between theoretical models and real-world geological observations.

Q: What is your favorite off-campus place to eat? 

A: The Ambassador in downtown Houghton.

Sananda Ray is pictured presenting her research poster at the American Geophysical Union (AGU) Fall Meeting in 2023.
Sananda photographed the Northern Lights over the Portage Canal.
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