VINCENNES, Indiana (August 18, 2005) – Governor Mitch Daniels announced today formation of a partnership among Vincennes University, the Indiana Department of Labor, and Indiana’s coal mining industry to initiate a miner training program. 

The program will offer individuals the 40 hours of initial training required before beginning work as a miner.  Proposals to develop continuing education courses for experienced miners, certificate programs, and a degree in mining technology through Vincennes University are also being considered. 

“This program is consistent with our goal of creating a well-educated and talented workforce that will meet the needs of current and future Hoosier employers,” said Daniels. 

Miguel R. Rivera, Sr., the Department of Labor commissioner presented Richard E. Helton, Vincennes University president, with a check for $10,000 to help start the program, part of a grant received from the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

“It is important to train our miners to be productive and safe.  This program will help accomplish that,” he said.

The program will begin this fall with part of the training taking place at Vincennes University as well as an on-site component at a local mine.  State Representative Troy Woodruff, R–Vincennes, initiated discussions that led to the partnership for the new program developed in conjunction with the Miner Training and Technology Advisory Board.

“Because of the close proximity to underground and surface mines in Knox, Vanderburgh, and Vigo counties, our campus is a perfect location to host such a program,” said Helton. “Vincennes University is excited to be a partner in Indiana’s economic comeback.”

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