outreach Archives | Geological and Mining Engineering and Science News

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

Published November 21, 2024

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.

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

Published November 6, 2024

By Brittany Buschell

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.

Simon Carn on the Eruption of La Cumbre Volcano

Published March 12, 2024

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Aerial view of La Cumbre, the lava flow, and the edge of Fernandina. — Fernandina Island showing the active lava flow from La Cumbra on March 7, 2024. Visit NASA Earth Observatory for legend and labels.

Simon Carn (GMES) was quoted by NASA Earth Observatory in a story about an eruption of the La Cumbre volcano in the Galápagos islands. The eruption began March 2 on Fernandina Island, and the story included a March 7 aerial image showing continued active lava flow.

“This is typical of lava-producing effusive eruptions, which usually show peak emissions early on followed by a steady decline towards the end of the eruption.”
Simon Carn, professor in Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences

Carn’s research includes using satellite measurements to constrain global volcanic SO₂ production and emissions from individual volcanoes.

Simon Carn on the Eruption from a Fissure on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Published December 21, 2023

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Pair of color maps of the peninsula, with a bright region in the right map. — Reykjanes Peninsula on December 18, 2023 (left) and December 19, 2023 (right). Visit NASA Earth Observatory for legend and labels.

Simon Carn (GMES) was quoted by NASA’s Earth Observatory in a story about the eruption of lava from a new fissure on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, which began late on Dec. 18. Carn interpreted a brightness temperature image comparison of the eruption area between Dec. 18 and 19, and commented on the reported risk to nearby infrastructure.

“If lava continues to flow north, it could eventually reach the key main road from Keflavík airport to Reykjavík.”
Simon Carn, professor in Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences

Carn’s current research focus is the application of remote sensing data to studies of volcanic degassing, volcanic eruption clouds, and anthropogenic pollution.

Letter from the Chair – December 2023

Published December 5, 2023

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Northern Lights over the snow and ice with students and flashlight in the far right corner of the frame — Aurora Borealis, Waterworks Park, Calumet, Michigan

Dear GMES Alumni and Friends,

When I became the department chair, I stopped using ‘Professor of Geophysics’ in my title and email signature. Instead, I now simply refer to myself as ‘Professor and Chair.’ This change reflects the fact that the success of all our programs and the department as a whole is equally important to me. I aspire to see our four major programs complement each other, combining our traditional strengths while equipping our students with the skills and tools needed for success in meeting the challenges of the 21st century.

Student enrollment remains the first priority for the Department. Currently, our undergraduate cohort is a healthy size, consisting of 73 students split between our four majors: Geology (28), Geological Engineering (23), Mining Engineering (16), and Applied Geophysics (6). Our nearly equal gender parity has consistently been one of the best within Michigan Tech. We currently have 34 MS students and 12 PhD students, with 12 more MS students joining us this spring semester 2024.

Even so, we have the capacity to accommodate still more GMES students and we work hard to bring them to Michigan Tech. Scholarships remain one of the most efficient tools to attract new students.

We also recently started development of a new articulation agreement with Minnesota North College, just as we did with Northwestern Michigan College last year. These agreements allow community college students to transfer their two-year credits to Michigan Tech and receive their Bachelor’s degree in two years.

Our capable, dedicated, enthusiastic students continue to be very successful in their classes and professional development. Our award-winning student chapter of the American Institute of Professional Geologists attended the AIPG National Conference in Kentucky in September. Student success stories—such as John Myyard’s and Brendan Harville’s—are always inspiring and rewarding for all us who strive to help students.

Our alumni community is invaluable to our department’s success. We’ve been delighted to reconnect with many of you at various events, including the GMES social event at the Annual SME Conference and Expo in Denver, and the Michigan Colleges/Universities Joint Alumni Reception at the GSA Annual Meeting in Pittsburgh. We look forward to reconnecting with you at future events, including the upcoming Alumni Reception at the SME MineXchange Conference in Phoenix on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM.

In October, it was a pleasure to welcome alumna Mary Herrmann-Foley, who returned to campus as a distinguished guest seminar speaker, sharing insights on the pivotal role of geological engineering in the energy transition.

With your support, we can enhance our educational offerings, expand scholarship opportunities to benefit more students, and bolster their competitiveness in the job market. Your contributions also provide valuable support for student travel and professional development. For more details on how to make a difference, visit mtu.edu/geo/department/giving, or please feel free to contact me at asmirnov@mtu.edu.

Lastly, we are always glad to hear from you! Please share your thoughts on what and how we can do better, and update us on your own endeavors and achievements.

Aleksey Smirnov

GMES Students Wow Houghton Elementary

Published October 17, 2023

By Brittany Buschell

We are delighted to recount the recent visit of two Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences (GMES) students to Houghton Elementary School, where the Rock Your School event sparked geologic wonder. Jhuleyssey Sanchez Aguila, an MS student in geological engineering, and applied geophysics undergrad student Brendan Harville took center stage as they masterfully conducted a captivating presentation on volcanic hazards, capturing the imaginations of the bright minds in the third, fourth, and fifth grades.

It was an immensely gratifying experience for all involved as the students exhibited an insatiable curiosity, inspiring questions that underscored their genuine interest in the particularities of geological science. The eagerness displayed by the young learners further reinforced the value of fostering scientific curiosity at an early age. This collaborative effort between our university and the elementary school enriched the children’s educational experience. It exemplified the profound impact that dedicated mentorship and knowledge-sharing can have on the budding scientists of tomorrow. TV6 gives a nod to Michigan Tech in the concluding comments of their news segment.

A special thank you to Jhuleyssey and Brendan!

*Houghton Elementary School Principal Cole Klein introduces Jhuleyssy and Brendan to a group of 3rd, 4th, & 5th graders.*
PC: **Jennifer D’Luge**

My story: John Myaard, MTUengineer

Published October 4, 2023

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John sits at a table with brochures and MTU Geo Mining banners — Geological Engineering student John Myaard ’23

John and others wear hardhats and yellow shirts on a mining platfrom in an open air mine, surrounded by rock formations. — John Myaard (far right) in Roff, Oklahoma, during his summer internship with Covia.

Geological engineering student John Myaard interviewed for an internship with Covia Corporation during a Michigan Tech Career Fair, and landed the job.

“Covia develops mineral-based and material solutions for the materials and energy markets. I spent a summer with Covia’s operations team at their mine and plant in Roff, Oklahoma. During my time there I learned a lot about operations as I worked in a variety of positions—from slurrying sand to loading railcars and everything in between. I also completed new miners training: MSHA Part 46 Certification, required by the U.S. Department of Labor.

“My time at Tech has been influential. I’ve met many good peers with whom I’ve weathered both the classroom and the elements.”
John Myaard

“Michigan Tech was always on my radar. I am from Michigan and grew up in Hudsonville, home to Hudsonville ice cream. I had family in the UP, so I’d already had a chance to see the MTU campus. Originally I was going to major in computer science, but after being exposed to some geology courses in high school and then experiencing a favorable tour of the GMES Department, I decided geological engineering would be a better fit.”

“I’m passionate about the interdisciplinary problem solving required in the field of mining. I see a lot of value in geological engineers getting involved with operations and mineral processing. We bring a diverse set of skills to the table.”

“There are more opportunities within the geological disciplines than most people are aware of. Especially now, as I am looking to graduate, many diverse career options exist, and the future of the discipline looks good.”

John is drilling in an underground mine. — John operates a drill in an underground mine. Hands-on learning is the norm for GMES students at Michigan Tech.

“The Career Fair is not only a great resource for students to find new opportunities, it’s a great place to receive professional development, as well. I took part in several callback interviews that helped me develop and improve my interview skills. The callbacks were instrumental in landing my internship, and hopefully in launching my future career.”

“There is no singular path for success. It is a journey, try your best.”
Advice for incoming students, from John Myaard

A Note from the Chair

Published May 15, 2023

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Early spring rock hunting at McLain State Park

Dear Alumni and Friends,

Warm greetings from the Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences at Michigan Tech!

I hope this newsletter finds you in good health and high spirits. The long winter in the Keweenaw has finally given way to the vibrant colors of spring. As the seasons change and spring breathes new life into Copper County, I am delighted to reconnect with all of you and share some latest updates from our department.

As always, our priority remains to provide the highest quality education and learning experiences to our students, ensuring their future success. Recently, we heartfeltly congratulated our Spring and Summer 2023 graduates on this significant milestone. We are immensely proud of their achievements and wish them the very best in their future endeavors.

Our students continue to engage in active research, exploring new frontiers and making valuable contributions to their respective areas of study. I was particularly impressed by the work of Natalie Sorensen, a talented freshman majoring in geological engineering who has shown great promise in the field of hydrological research. Her dedication and enthusiasm are truly inspiring. Another noteworthy mention goes to Addison Goecker, a senior in applied geophysics whose poster presentation at the AIPG meeting received well-deserved recognition. It’s remarkable to see the caliber of research being conducted by our students.

One of the hallmarks of our department is the research mentorship provided by our faculty to our students. This commitment to guiding and nurturing their research endeavors was recently showcased at the Institute for Lake Superior Geology (ILSG) meeting in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, attended by a group of faculty and students. Not only did they present their research findings, but they also had the invaluable opportunity to network with esteemed professionals in the field. This experience further solidifies our department’s dedication to providing our students with exceptional research opportunities and preparing them for successful futures in their chosen disciplines.

Our faculty and staff have been successful, too! In particular, I am thrilled to announce that Radwin Askari, associate professor of geophysics, has been honored with a prestigious NSF CAREER award in recognition of his innovative ideas for understanding the dynamics of a volcano’s magmatic cracks. This research can improve the forecast of volcanic eruptions and help to mitigate their attendant hazards.

The expertise of our researchers is highly sought around the globe. Notably, our experts in water resource management, Dr. John Gierke and Dr. Luke Bowman were solicited by AmeriCorps to share their knowledge in building rainwater collection systems in rural communities of Colombia.

Teaching excellence has been a cornerstone of our department, and we take pride in the accomplishments of our faculty members on this front. Chad Deering and Luke Bowman, in particular, have been recognized for their exceptional teaching abilities. Chad’s dedication and passion have earned him a nomination for the Michigan Tech Distinguished Teaching Award while Luke’s teaching prowess has been acknowledged in the Dean’s Teaching Showcase.

The support of our donors is instrumental to our success. Your generosity plays a crucial role in providing exceptional opportunities for our students and enhancing the quality of education we offer. We are always striving to provide the best opportunities for our students. The next few years promise even further expansion. However, we still have big needs in the areas of laboratory improvements and student scholarships. We would greatly appreciate any assistance in making these enhancements.

In particular, we have a pressing need to upgrade our Mining Engineering computer lab, and also to fund additional scholarships for geology and applied geophysics students.

As I reflect on our shared journey, the importance of our alumni community is clear: You are an invaluable part of our department’s history and success. We were happy to see quite a few of alumni and friends at Michigan Tech’s GMES social event, held at the recent 2023 Annual SME Conference and Expo in Denver. We intend to have more such events at other professional meetings.

Meanwhile, if you ever find yourself in our neck of the woods, I sincerely hope you’ll consider stopping by to say hello and share your stories. Your experiences and achievements are a great inspiration to our students and faculty alike.

Wishing you all the best in your endeavors, and may our paths cross again soon.

With warmest regards,

Aleksey Smirnov
Professor and Chair
Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences

Gierke and Bowman on Building Rainwater Collection Systems

Published April 18, 2023

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Group of locals and two researchers standing outside — Fundación Cartagena Nuevo Amanecer project partners celebrating the completion of another phase of their demonstrative community garden in Magangue, Colombia. Image courtesy of Damaris Guerra.

Man standing near a tank holding a sticker with mining picks and a Husky illustration. — Foundation’s lead technician Jesus Fandiño with a GMES sticker to be placed on the main rainwater catchment/irrigation supply tank.

John Gierke and Luke Bowman supported Fundación Cartagena Nuevo Amanecer, with Dr. Gierke serving as Small-Scale Irrigation Systems Expert and Dr. Bowman serving as Water Capture (Hydrology) Specialist.

The two assisted the Fundación in the design of a small-scale water catchment and irrigation system for FCNA’s school garden beds as well as local backyard gardens.

In addition to designing and building functional systems during 10 days of work, Gierke and Bowman provided community partners with user-friendly, Spanish-language, spreadsheet tools to explore design considerations for sizing, purchasing components, and building new systems.

Simon Carn on the Tonga Eruption

Published January 9, 2023

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BBC Science in Action Tonga eruption podcast interface.

Simon Carn (GMES) was a guest on a BBC Science In Action podcast episode on January 5, 2023, titled “One year on from the Tonga eruption.”

The episode discussed what made the January 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano so powerful and unpacked its long-lasting impacts.

“Amongst all the material ejected by Hunga Tonga was a huge amount of water. The massive water vapour cloud is still present in our atmosphere, as Professor Simon Carn from the Michigan Technological University tells us.”
BBC Science in Action

Category: outreach