Great Basin College and Nevada Gold Mines Partner to Build Nevada’s Mining Workforce

The synergy between academic preparation and industrial application is driving a new era of workforce development in rural Nevada. Through a strategic partnership, Great Basin College (GBC) and Nevada Gold Mines (NGM) are creating direct pipelines from the classroom to high-demand careers in the mining sector, focusing heavily on Career and Technical Education (CTE) and inclusivity.

Empowering the Next Generation: “Women in CTE & Mining Rocks”

To bridge the gap between education and industry, GBC and Nevada Gold Mines recently hosted the “Women in CTE & Mining Rocks” experience. The event brought together 41 students and staff members from several communities, including Carlin, West Wendover, Owyhee, Jackpot, Elko, and Spring Creek.

Held at the Carlin Complex, the immersive experience was designed to showcase the diverse CTE pathways that sustain Nevada’s mining operations. Participants gained a behind-the-scenes look at the industry through guided tours of critical facilities:

• Mill 5: An exploration of gold processing in action.
• The Central Shop: Insight into how industrial maintenance teams manage complex machinery.
• The Truck Shop: A firsthand look at diesel technicians working on a massive new Komatsu 930 haul truck.

Beyond the technical tours, the event focused on mentorship. Students met women currently leading the mining sector and recent graduates who successfully transitioned from their studies into industrial technology careers, demonstrating how classroom skills translate into professional success.

Advancing Technical Training: The Nevada Gold Mines Welding Technology Lab

The partnership extends beyond field trips into permanent educational infrastructure. On August 22, 2024, Great Basin College celebrated the grand opening of the Nevada Gold Mines Welding Technology Lab at its Elko Campus.

Construction on the facility began in April 2023 to address a critical workforce shortage of welders in Nevada. The project was made possible through a lead gift from Nevada Gold Mines and a grant from the Greater Nevada Credit Union Live Greater Grants program. This expansion allows GBC to modernize a welding program that has served students for over 20 years, providing state-of-the-art equipment to train a more capable workforce.

According to GBC Interim President Dr. Amber Donnelli, the expanded facility increases the college’s capacity to empower students with the advanced training necessary to meet the demands of growing industries and drive future innovation.

A Comprehensive Approach to Mine Skills Training

Great Basin College utilizes a multi-pronged approach to ensure students are industry-ready. In addition to the specialized welding lab and CTE outreach, the college offers GBC-NORCAT Mine Skills Training. This program focuses on developing safety-conscious, skilled workers specifically for the mining industry in Northern Nevada.

As a regionally accredited public institution with campuses in Elko, Winnemucca, Ely, and Pahrump, GBC integrates industry standards into its certificates, associate, and bachelor’s degrees to ensure graduates are prepared for immediate employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which communities participated in the “Women in CTE” event?

Students and staff from Carlin, West Wendover, Owyhee, Jackpot, Elko, and Spring Creek attended the experience.

Who funded the Nevada Gold Mines Welding Technology Lab?

The lead gift was provided by Nevada Gold Mines, with additional support from the Greater Nevada Credit Union via the Live Greater Grants program.

Where does Great Basin College have campuses?

GBC operates campuses in Elko, Winnemucca, Ely, and Pahrump, while likewise offering flexible online programs.

What is the purpose of GBC-NORCAT MST?

It prepares the future mining workforce by developing skilled, safety-focused workers for the mining industry in Northern Nevada.