Geological and Mining Engineering and Science News

Category: Students

Geophysics in Action: Katie Bristol’s Alumni Journey

Published
By

Meet Katie Bristol, an innovative mind in geophysics who began her journey at Michigan Tech, earning a BS and MS before pursuing a PhD and conducting fieldwork in India and Montana. Now a postdoctoral researcher at Purdue, Katie reflects on her time as a Husky, shares career insights, and offers advice for the next generation of MTU students. Read on to explore the Q&A session with Katie.

Katie observed the active Whakaari / White Island volcano crater in New Zealand.

Katie Bristol, BS Applied Geophysics ‘18, MS Geophysics ’20, Michigan Tech University
Advised by: Aleksey Smirnov

Ph.D. Geophysics, University of Florida, 2024

Katie’s publications.

Q: Why did you choose MTU?
A: I came to MTU as a high school student attending Summer Youth Programs and absolutely fell in love with the area. I felt like I had left a piece of my heart in the Keweenaw and knew I had to go back! 

Q: What has your career path been like since you graduated?
A: After getting my BS and MS at MTU, I received my PhD from the University of Florida. During my PhD, I got to do fieldwork in India, and I even got to help excavate dinosaur bones in Montana! Because my Summer Youth Programs (SYP) experience impacted me both as an attendee and an instructor, I have continued to work in outreach in Florida. I help run outreach events at the Florida Museum of Natural History and am a Visiting Scientist for Scientists in Every Florida School. After PhD, I received a job offer at Purdue University, where I will be working as a postdoctoral researcher starting in January 2025.

Q: How did your time at MTU prepare you for your career?
A: My coursework and research experience at MTU gave me the skills to be a critical thinker and a problem solver, which employers highly value.

Excavation of a Triceratops in Montana, USA.

Q: What’s it like to return to the campus now? Have you noticed any changes?
A: While the campus has changed slightly with the new Health STEM building, it still feels like a home away from home. I love to stop in, say hi to Brittany, and chat with professors – sometimes, we even catch up at the KBC!

Drilling paleomagnetic cores in the Deccan Traps of Maharashtra, India.

Q: What is the most impactful memory of your time here?
A: Getting to do fieldwork in areas ranging from the Precambrian midcontinent rift (in MTU’s backyard) to active volcanoes and glaciers (field camp through Frontiers Abroad).

Q: What is your favorite activity when you return to campus?
A: I love getting coffee from KCW, hiking waterfalls, and searching for beach agates!

Q: What advice would you give someone starting at Tech as a Husky?
A: Get involved with undergraduate research, explore the Keweenaw, and attend office hours!

Mapping geomorphologic features in Castle Hill, New Zealand (where Narnia was filmed!).

Q: What role did the community or extracurricular activities play in your overall experience?
A: The close-knit MTU community and surrounding area are truly unmatched. At MTU, you’re not just a number – everyone knows each other and looks out for one another.

Q: Did you have on-campus employment while a student? If yes, what did you do?
A: I worked as a research assistant in the MTU Paleomagnetism Laboratory with Dr. Aleksey Smirnov. During this time, I did fieldwork, sample preparation, and measurements in the lab, which prepared me for graduate school and my career in research.

Kayaking to islands in Lake Superior to search for Precambrian dikes to sample for paleointensity study.
Continue Reading →

Exploring Geoscience Careers, Connections, and the Keweenaw Peninsula: Insights from GE1100

Published
By
Safety first! Kylie Overly is pictured underground wearing the proper gear.

Michigan Tech students gain insight into geoscience careers and programs, experience engaging field trips to the Keweenaw Peninsula, and build connections with department faculty and resources in the Geo Engineering & Science Orientation (GE1100) lab. Discover the fascinating geological features Kylie enjoyed learning about, and explore our list of current undergraduate and graduate courses the GMES Department offers. 

More about GE1100 – GE1100 is a one-credit introductory course for freshmen or sophomores in geoscience-related majors in the fall.

  • What majors require it? Geology, Applied Geophysics, Geological Engineering, Mining Engineering 
  • How many credits? 1
  • Semesters offered? Fall 
  • Prereqs? None
  • Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Geological Engineering, General Sciences and Arts, General Engineering, Mining Engineering, Applied Geophysics, Geology
  • May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior

Catalog Description: Introduction to geosciences as a profession, including discussions of career opportunities and geoscience programs. Earth materials and the Earth’s processes are also introduced. Includes frequent field trips. Intended for freshman or sophomore students in geological engineering, geology, applied geophysics, hydrology, geotechnics, earth science teaching, or any other geoscience program.

The instructor is Aleksey Smirnov, Chair, GMES.

TA for Fall 2024 is Sam Jensen, BS Applied Geophysics ‘25
Hometown: Gladstone, Michigan

Kylie Overly is pictured with Sam Jensen at Hungarian Falls.

Find out what Kylie Overly had to say about her class experience:

This class does a great job of introducing the department and some local places to incoming students.

Would You Recommend This Class? 

Yes! I recommend this class to other students if they are curious about geological engineering or the department.

Favorite Aspect of the Class:

I liked the Saturday field trips to explore some fantastic spots in the Keweenaw Peninsula. 

Most Exciting Thing Learned:

The most exciting thing I learned in this class was how the peninsula’s geology is mirrored on the other side of Lake Superior.

Prerequisites Needed?

None. Since it’s an introductory class, no prior knowledge is required.

Value of the Class:

I learn something new in each class!

Future Benefits:

This class is highly beneficial. The Wednesday lectures introduce us to the department’s professors, giving us opportunities to talk to them if you are interested in that subject.

Kylie Overly and Sam Jensen pose together at the scenic Horseshoe Harbor.

National Park Service Resources:
https://www.nps.gov/piro/learn/nature/lake-superior.htm
https://www.nps.gov/isro/learn/nature/geology-and-soils.htm

Continue Reading →

Dr. Radwin Askari: Pioneering Geophysics Research and Education at Michigan Tech

Published
By
Dr. Askari

Dr. Radwin Askari, Associate Professor in the Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) at Michigan Tech, is a geophysicist at the forefront of environmental geophysics and energy transition research. His innovative work focuses on understanding fluid transport in geological settings and its geophysical signatures, including volcanic tremors and long-period events. As the founder of Michigan Tech’s state-of-the-art Physical Modeling Laboratory (PML) in Dow 622, Dr. Askari leads pioneering research on environmental geophysics, fracture dynamics and its induced seismicity, and geological hydrogen. His lab is equipped with advanced technologies such as acoustic velocity, low permeability, ultrasonic, and high-speed imaging systems, providing students with exceptional opportunities for hands-on learning.

Dr. Askari fosters a diverse and inclusive research environment, welcoming students from all backgrounds to contribute to groundbreaking work that impacts environmental conservation and the global energy transition. He is also a recipient of the prestigious NSF CAREER award, further highlighting his commitment to both research and education. Join Dr. Askari at Michigan Tech, where you can be part of transformative research addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges in geophysics and energy.

Dr. Askari directs the Earth Explorers Computer Lab (EECL) Dow 619. A multifunctional hub, EECL supports GMES students’ research, coursework, and senior projects with high-performance workstations, specialized software, and access to Michigan Tech’s computing cluster. It also features a TV screen and videoconferencing equipment and serves as a classroom and meeting space, all within a refreshed and collaborative environment.

Dow 619 Earth Explorers Computer Lab (EECL)

Since Dr. Askari joined in 2015, GMES has benefited from his expertise, which he has since taught courses such as Fundamentals of Geophysics, Computational Geosciences, Environmental and Engineering Geophysics, Reflection Seismology, Formation Evaluation and Petroleum Engineering, Advanced Engineering and Engineering Geophysics, and Advanced Reflection Seismology. Be sure to check out the educational videos Dr. Askari creates and shares on his YouTube channel!

Are you ready to explore groundbreaking research and hands-on learning? mtu.edu/apply

Breeanne Heusdens, Fletcher McGuire ‘22, Olivia Salvaggio ‘22, Sananda Ray, Nontawat Srisapan, Radwin Askari
Continue Reading →

Milena Sremba: A Glimpse into the HSAG Program’s Impact on Her Geology Path

Published
By

Meet Milena Sremba, BS Geology 2028
Hometown: Hudsonville, MI

Discover how the HSAG program fast-tracked Milena’s geology career at MTU, offering advanced courses and research opportunities – learn from her journey and get inspired!

Milena Sremba’s senior photo with the majestic Rockies near Boulder, Colorado, as a backdrop.

Q: How did HSAG impact your decision to study geosciences or engineering?
A: I have known for a long time that I wanted to pursue a science degree, but the HSAG course truly helped me realize that my passion is geology.

Q: Why MTU?
A: Not many colleges offer geology as a major; if they do, the department isn’t great. MTU has a fantastic department and physical geology around campus to immerse myself.

The GE1100/Geo Eng & Sci Orientation class embarked on an unforgettable journey through the historic Quincy Mine—Milena captures the moment with a selfie!

Q: How did HSAG help you succeed at MTU?
A: Taking the HSAG courses accelerated my studies in the geoscience department at MTU. I also took advanced chemistry, placing me in the second year of geology courses.

Q: What is the best advice to give a current HSAG student?
A: Put in the work now, as it pays off a lot in the future.

Q: If Current: What do you like best about GMES?
A: I love how the professors excel in their topic. I also love how, even if you’re a freshman, you still have an opportunity to get involved in research.

One of the many recess caves during Milena’s vacation in Hocking Hills.

Q: What’s a standout story or lesson you’ve gained during your journey with GMES?
A: So many different people come together in the GMES department, but we are all united by our love for geology.

Continue Reading →

Learn Geology Where it Happens: The Natural Wall and GE3100

Published
By

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

Continue Reading →

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

Published
By

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.
Continue Reading →

Congratulations, Fall 2024 Graduates!

Published
By

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.


Continue Reading →

Geoinformatics Graduate Certificate Ask and Answer with Nyasha Milanzi

Published
By
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.

Continue Reading →

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

Published
By

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.
Continue Reading →

Geoinformatics Graduate Certificate Ask and Answer

Published
By
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.
Continue Reading →