US representative Nick Rahall of West Virginia confirmed the $892,000 funding, which will be given to the school over three years for its “Comprehensive Career Pathways and Programs in Coal Mining” project.

Students enrolled in four programs, including electrical engineering technology, mining engineering, mine management and mine technology, are offered academic and technical education and managerial skills development to meet the mining industry’s needs.

The funding was awarded by the National Science Foundation through its Division of Undergraduate Education.

The initiative gives federal funds to science, technology, engineering and mathematics education at both two- and four-year colleges and universities.

“Opening doors to a college education and workforce training is essential to building a robust economy and ensuring a higher quality of life in southern West Virginia,” Rahall said.

“Along with valuable work and life experiences, the formal credentials of a two- or four-year degree bring more opportunities closer at hand. Federal investments in education, especially workforce training, are essential to driving our state’s and nation’s economy forward.”