Geological and Mining Engineering and Science News

Category: Students

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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GMES Student Spotlight Q&A: Konraad VanDyke, B.S. Geology ’25

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GMES Student Spotlight Q&A: Konraad VanDyke, B.S. Geology 2025
Hometown: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Konraad VanDyke, a Geology major from Kalamazoo, chose Michigan Tech for its unique geology. He enjoys Petrology with Professor Chad Deering and is active in campus groups like the Undergraduate Student Government and Geology Club. Outside class, he explores local history and hikes and embraces winter through snowshoeing and skiing. Keep reading to learn more about Konraad’s reflections on being a current student.

Konraad standing in an old shovel bucket from a coal mine in Germany. The bucket currently sits at the Cliff shafts.

Q: Why did you choose to attend MTU?

A: The geology of the surrounding area.

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

A: Professor Chad Deering with Petrology

Q: Are you in any clubs or groups on campus?

A: USG (Undergraduate Student Government), AIPG, SME, Geology Club

Q: What advice would you give to a future Husky?

A: Pay attention in class and chase what you enjoy endlessly. 

Q: What about MTU would you change, if possible?

A: Lately, I have liked better winters with more snow and colder temps.

Q: What local activities do you enjoy outside of MTU?

A: Hiking, exploring, and meeting the locals and old timers who saw the area when some old mines were in operation. 

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

A: Either the Hut in Calumet or Hilltop in L’anse

Q: How do you survive winter?

A: By embracing and enjoying it by hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing. 

Q: Have your post-graduation plans changed since coming to MTU? If so, how and why?

A: They have not changed but focused more on mineral exploration.

A thin section highlights pyroxene (black in the middle) within basalt.


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GMES Student Spotlight Q&A: Aimee Zimmerman, PhD Geophysics 2027

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GMES Student Spotlight Q&A: Aimee Zimmerman, MS Geophysics 2024, PhD Geophysics 2027
Hometown: Mill Hall, Pennsylvania

After finding a strong sense of belonging, Aimee Zimmerman relocated to Michigan Tech to pursue her Master of Science in Geophysics in 2022. Two years later, her passion for her research led her to continue her academic journey, and she is now working toward a Ph.D. with graduate student advising from Dr. Greg Waite. Aimee wants to know how an earthquake stresses a volcanic eruption. She monitors volcanic activity worldwide using thermal satellite imaging to determine if earthquakes and seismic activity can tell us something about volcanoes. She offers her perspectives on MTU below. 

Popocatépetl is one of the volcanoes Aimee is studying.

Q: Why did you choose to attend MTU?

A: I visited in the spring of 2022, and it immediately felt like home. The community was so welcoming and generous. I attended MTU for my Masters degree and was allowed to continue my education. I decided to stay for my PhD and continue the research I started in my Masters

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

A: I have thoroughly enjoyed taking classes on natural hazards and their social dynamics. Learning about the discrepancies in dealing with hazards and how we can mitigate disasters has been extremely helpful. 

Q: Are you in any clubs or groups on campus?

A: I am a part of InterVarsity, a Christian student organization. I lead a small group discussion with other graduate students

Q: What advice would you give to a future Husky?

A: Don’t solely exist to do homework and take exams. College is so much more than just classes, so get involved and branch out. Say yes to things, and you never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll get to experience

Q: What local activities do you enjoy outside of MTU?

A: I love to go rock hunting when the weather is nice. I have a rock tumbler, so finding rocks that polish nicely is always fun. I also love to volunteer for things involving my church. I am involved in the children’s ministry, so I get to spend time every week with pre-schoolers as they learn more about God 

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

A: The cafe in the library has amazing coffee, and the yogurt parfaits are also great. Off-campus, my favorite is The Ambassador. The pizza is my favorite up here, and they have such a fantastic atmosphere

Q: How do you survive winter?

A: I love to read, so cozying up on my couch with a good book and a cup of tea is the only way I get through the cold nights. I also love going to hockey games, which makes weekends super fun.

Q: Have your post-graduation plans changed since coming to MTU? If so, how and why?

A: Yes. I never considered going into teaching at the college level, but I was given the opportunity to be a teaching assistant for an introduction to geology lab. I loved seeing the students grasp the material after explaining things to them. 


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A Legacy of Giving: How the Wickstrom Family Supports Michigan Tech Students Across Generations

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Michigan Tech’s legacy resonates deeply across generations for some families, and the Walter Wickstrom ’37 family is a perfect example.

Although none of Walter’s three children—Betty Wickstrom Kendrick, Jean Wickstrom Liles, and Phil Wickstrom—are Michigan Tech alums or live nearby, each has established scholarships in memory of their father. They credit Michigan Tech with laying the foundation for their family’s success. In 2021, Betty created the Walter William Wickstrom Memorial Annual Scholarship to support the Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences students.

“My father attended Michigan Tech during the Depression. I established this scholarship in his name because I want to brighten the day for current students,” says Betty Wickstrom Kendrick. She treasures the thank-you letters she receives and is continually impressed by the students’ stories, learning how the scholarships have made a tangible difference. To date, she has impacted the lives of twenty-eight undergraduate students directly.

One of the recipients shared how even a small scholarship can make a meaningful impact: “Receiving the Wickstrom Scholarship helped ease the financial pressure and allowed me to cover some of my essential expenses, like textbooks and lab fees. It’s made a noticeable difference and reminded me that there are people who believe in my potential and want to help me succeed.”

The Wickstrom family’s generosity continues to make a lasting impact, providing opportunities for future generations of GMES students to thrive and succeed, just as Walter Wickstrom did many years ago.

The latest eight to receive Betty’s gift in Fall 2024.

Pictured L to R: Avery Spalding, a junior in geology from Midland, Michigan.
Zeke Martin is a junior in geology from Alanson, Michigan.
Carlee Erhardt is a junior in mining engineering from Mt Pleasant, Michigan.
Luke Mariuzza is a senior in geological engineering from Ishpeming, Michigan.
Stephanie Wiegand is a senior in geological engineering with a minor in mining from Caspian, Michigan.
Jacob Ojala is a geological engineering junior from Hancock, Michigan, with a minor in aerospace.
Lucas Maxon is a mining engineering junior with a minor in mineral processing from Iron Mountain, Michigan.
Not pictured: Anton Smirnov, a senior in geology from Houghton, Michigan

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SME Features Michigan Tech in Magazine Series on US Mining Schools

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Quincy Mine

The Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) featured Michigan Tech in Part 3 of its series on U.S. mining engineering schools, published in the September 2024 issue of Mining Engineering Magazine, the society’s official publication. The profile spotlighted the mining-related degree programs Michigan Tech’s Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) offered.

The article included Q&A sessions with Aleksey Smirnov, GMES professor and department chair; senior mining engineering student Alice Schmaltz; and recent graduates Emily Voght (B.S. Mining Engineering, 2022) and Jacob Maxon (B.S. Mining Engineering, 2023).

In his interview, Smirnov highlighted Michigan Tech as the only U.S. college to offer mining and geoscience-related programs within a single department. He emphasized the University’s proximity to active mining projects, hands-on learning opportunities in mine safety, critical minerals, and data analytics, and the strong industry connections that provide students with internships and job prospects.

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Celebrating Excellence: GMES Celebrates Student Achievements with Cookies and Cheers!

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The Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) celebrated the achievements of our students and faculty at a recognition ceremony held on September 13, 2024, in the GMES atrium. We were delighted to welcome our special guests, David Adler (Geology ’82) and his wife, Martha. David has been an invaluable supporter of our American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) student chapter, and this time, he joined us to present several AIPG awards.

We congratulated Konraad VanDyke (Geology ’26), honored with the Andrew Mozola Memorial Scholarship, and Natalie Sorensen (Geological Engineering ’26), who received the AIPG National Undergraduate Scholarship.

The AIPG student chapter was recognized with the 2023 Excellent Chapter Award, and certificates were presented to the chapter’s past leadership: President Grace Griffin (Ojala), Vice President Maxwell Stange, Secretary Anton Smirnov, and Treasurer Emilie Pray.

We also celebrated the AggCelerate student team for their outstanding achievement in reaching the top six nationally in the final phase of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration (SME)/National Stone, Sand, and Gravel Association (NSSGA) Student Design Competition at the 2024 Annual SME Conference & Expo in Phoenix, AZ. The interdisciplinary Michigan Tech team, advised by Dr. Nathan Manser, professor of practice, included mining engineering majors Aiden Harmon, Lucas Maxon, Ian Repic, Nathan Seidel, Grady Williams, and geological engineering junior Cassie Burch.

Other students recognized included Alice Schmaltz (Mining Engineering, ’25), recipient of the prestigious 2024 Copper Club Scholarship, and Rapheka Targbwe (MS student in Mining Engineering), who received competitive scholarships from the Woman’s Auxiliary to the American Institute of Mining and Metallurgical Engineers (WAAIME), a division of SME.

We also cheered for Gustavo Bejar Lopez for his success in winning the Three Minute Thesis competition and securing a National Geographic Explorer Grant last fall.

Additionally, we welcomed two new members to the department: Xiang Li, our new assistant professor of geological engineering, and Matt Laird, our new academic advisor.

The event was filled with engaging conversations, and everyone enjoyed the refreshments, which included cookies, fruit, and soft drinks. It was a wonderful time for all.

David Adler and Konraad VanDyke

David Adler and Natalie Sorensen

David Adler and Grace Griffin (Ojala)

David Adler and Anton Smirnov

Dr. Luke Bowman and Rapheka Targbwe

Inspiration and Recognition: GMES students and faculty unite in the atrium, sharing a moment of celebration for outstanding achievements and contributions.

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