NIC earns $179,023 MSHA grant for mine safety training program

North Idaho College has secured a $179,023 grant from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to sustain its Idaho Mine Safety Program, marking a decade of specialized training for the region’s mining workforce. The funding will support safety education over the next year for contractors, operators, and both experienced and new miners working in underground and surface mining.

Launched in 2015, the program is celebrating 10 years of operation. This latest award represents the 11th annual MSHA grant received by the college. The grant is part of a larger $10.5 million initiative announced Oct. 19 by the U.S. Department of Labor to provide federally mandated mine safety and health training across the country.

Idaho Mine Safety Program Trains Hundreds Annually

Since its inception, the Idaho Mine Safety Program has seen 3,485 individuals from 113 different institutions and businesses complete its courses. The program currently trains more than 500 people annually, contributing to a safety culture for an industry that employs approximately 3,000 people in Idaho.

The program’s financial structure relies on a mix of funding, with 80% coming from federal grants ($179,032) and 20% sourced from non-governmental origins ($44,758).

NIC Partners with Industry and Academic Institutions

The Workforce Training Center at NIC extends its reach through an educational partnership with the Idaho Mining Advancement Project and participation in Safety Fest of the Great Northwest events. The college also provides safety instruction for students enrolled in the University of Idaho’s Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering to link workplace safety with academic study.

Wayne Palmer, assistant secretary for mine safety and health, noted that these federal grants are intended to promote healthful and safe workplaces for more than 300,000 miners across tribal lands, territories, and 47 states.

Support for the Mining Community

Colby Mattila, NIC Executive Director of Workforce and Economic Development, stated that the college has spent 10 years collaborating with the mining industry to ensure workers possess the skills and knowledge required for job safety.

“This continued investment supports miners, their families and the communities that depend on a strong mining workforce. We’re proud to provide training that serves such an important industry in our region.” Colby Mattila