He also said the state would be investing $US4.3 million towards the construction of the Mining Technology and Training Center on a 65-acre parcel in Prosperity, Greene County. The monies originated from Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, or RACP, a state grant program.
“This facility, when completed next year, will help train the nation’s coal miners to respond quickly and safely during potentially life-threatening situations,” Rendell said earlier this week.
“With nearly 5000 miners planning to retire within the next five to six years, the United States will face a shortage of skilled, underground miners. This centre will play a vital role in filling that gap.”
He noted that the United Mine Workers of America will be major frequenters of the 100,000-square foot complex, as the technology planned to be part of the centre – including an above-ground simulated coal mine – will be vital to the training of “the fundamentals of underground mining, including first aid, CPR, ventilation and mine evacuation”
The simulated operation, Rendell noted, will be constructed inside a 300x300sq.ft metal building and will include faux coal blocks. It will be designed to be identical to the layout and appearance of a true underground mine.
“As the fourth-largest coal producer in the nation, Pennsylvania must ensure the safety of our miners and the success of the mining industry,” Rendell said of the centre’s need for a changing face of mining in the state and nationwide, adding that he also included a funding increase for mine safety in his proposed 2007-08 budget.
“This is a historic event for the United Mine Workers of America,” said UMWA Career Centers executive director Clemmy Allen.
“For the first time in 117 years, the UMWA will have its own facility to train the next generation of America’s miners and upgrade the skills of the incumbent workforce.
“This funding will have a tremendous financial impact on southwestern Pennsylvania and we are excited to be a part of this project.”
The individuals graduating from the New Miner Training School will each earn his or her requisite 40-hour Mine Safety and Health Administration training certificate, CPR card, a certificate of completion and a certificate from Penn State University showing qualifications to work underground.
Extended classes at the centre will include EMT training and certification, the state noted.
