Mike Nelson

About Mike Nelson

Dr. Michael G.(Mike) Nelson retired as professor of mining engineering at the University of Utah, in 2023. He was the department chair for 11 years. He was previously professor of mining engineering at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He holds degrees in metallurgical engineering, applied physics, and mining engineering. Mike has worked for Kennecott Copper, Westinghouse Electric, Consolidation Coal, and EIMCO Process Equipment, and has served as a director for several mining and exploration companies. He holds nine patents in mining and mineral processing technology. Mike has authored 21 books and book chapters, and numerous technical papers. He has given invited short courses in the U.S, Australia, Ecuador, and India, and has been an expert witness in the U.S. and Australia. He is a member of the Board of Advisors of the Utah Trust Lands Administration.Mike is a member of SME, the Society of Mining Professors, the Rocky Mountain Mining Institute, and the Utah Mining Association. In 2019, he was elected a Fellow and Distinguished Member of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, “in recognition for contributions to coal mining and processing, mining machine automation, mine ventilation, ground control, and safety.” In 2020, he received the General Patrick E. Connor Award for Service to Utah’s Mining Industry from the Utah Mining Association.

Experience

1. Senior Mining Consultant

   Stantec

   Feb 2024 — Present

Education

• University of Utah

  Bachelor of Science - BS, Metallurgical Engineering

  1975

• West Virginia University

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Mining and Mineral Engineering

  1989

• University of Utah

  Master of Science - MS, Physics

  1983