HCTC President and employees visit an underground mine

HCTC President Dr. Steve Greiner and four other college employees were in an underground coal mine on Feb. 16 that gave them a greater appreciation of the coal mining industry. "I was so impressed with the operation, and I enjoyed seeing the technology in use. Coal is so important to the area and I wanted to learn more about the operation," Dr. Greiner said. "Thanks to Enterprise Coal Company, part of Alpha Natural Resources, for the experience."

The three hours spent underground was preceded by a safety training session, and safety was stressed all along the way, Greiner noted.

Joining Dr. Greiner on the underground coal mine visit were Jesse Campbell, Kentucky Coal Academy; Neil Brashear, Dean of Learning Services; Jamie Ratliff of Enterprise; Dr. Jennifer Lindon of Workforce Solutions; Kimberly Marsh of UCM; Melissa Vermillion, grant writer; Robert Gordon, trainer with Enterprise.

HCTC's Kentucky Coal Academy partners with local mines, such as Enterprise, to train incumbent workers who desire updates in technology and technical skills training.

"This was an extremely intriguing experience," noted Dr. Greiner.