Washington, D.C. — Dr. Walt Copan, Vice President for Research & Technology Transfer at Colorado School of Mines, testified today before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations, underscoring the urgent need for U.S. leadership in mining innovation, advanced mineral processing, and workforce development as global demand for critical minerals accelerates.
The hearing focused on how emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and advanced separation methods—can strengthen domestic mineral supply chains, reduce costs, and improve environmental performance. It comes as the administration is investing in innovative extraction methods as well as conventional and unconventional sources of critical minerals to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, particularly China.
Copan highlighted Mines’ world-leading research on the future of mining, including recent research showing the potential to source many critical minerals from existing mine byproducts—an efficient, low-impact path to bolstering domestic supply.
He also called for a coordinated national minerals and materials strategy to guide federal investments toward the most impactful technologies and resources.
“Our nation was built on innovation, energy and mining. Today, these are essential to our economic and national security and technological leadership,” Copan said. “The U.S. needs a new national compact on natural resources—aligning innovation, workforce, environmental stewardship, and national security.”
Subcommittee members on both sides of the aisle as well as the hearing witnesses stressed the importance of rebuilding the domestic mining workforce as the industry faces significant retirements and rising demand for interdisciplinary talent in data science, automation, advanced materials, and environmental engineering.
In his comments, Copan appealed to young people who may be considering a career in the mining sector.
“Mining and minerals are the foundation of the future—powering energy systems, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, medical technologies, and national security," he said. "If you want a career with impact, global relevance, and immediate opportunity, the advanced mining and minerals sector needs you.”
Colorado School of Mines, ranked No. 1 in the world for mineral and mining engineering, is uniquely positioned to support national efforts on critical minerals. Copan’s congressional testimony is the latest example of Mines faculty and critical minerals experts being called upon by Congress and the federal government to inform national mining and minerals policy.
About Mines
Colorado School of Mines is a public R1 research university focused on applied science and engineering, producing the talent, knowledge and innovations to serve industry and benefit society – all to create a more prosperous future.
