FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Michelle Lee, Westward
210-831-6454

BOERNE, TX (February 13, 2025) – WESTWARD, a leading engineering, geosciences, ecology, and environmental services firm based in central Texas is proud to introduce No Mining, Know Mining (NMKM), at MINEXCHANGE 2025, The Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME)’s Annual Conference & Expo in Denver, February  23 – 26, 2025.

As part of the NMKM initiative, Westward is proud to sponsor free Practical GeoCommunication training for all SME attendees. Geologize’s Practical GeoCommunication course helps geoscientists effectively engage the public and enhance understanding of mining and the geosciences. Free training codes will be available at the conference. For more details on NMKM and the training, visit Practical  GeoCommunication Training.

Essential minerals are the backbone of modern life, supporting infrastructure, medical advancements, emerging technologies, and the green energy transition. While agriculture sustains us with food, resources like copper, lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements—critical for energy storage, electronics, and national security—require responsible mining. No Mining, Know Mining is a comprehensive online platform designed to educate stakeholders on key mining-related topics, including engineering, geology, environmental science, and sustainability. By providing unbiased information, NMKM fosters a deeper understanding of mining’s role in meeting global needs now and in the future.

February 24 | 1:00–3:00 PM – Joint presentation by Westward’s VP of Mining & Market Development Michelle M. Lee, P.G., and Geologize’s CEO Dr. Haydon Mort at the SME National Outreach Committee (NOC) meeting on mining education and outreach
February 25 | 3:05 PM – Presentation by Westward VP of Mining & Market Development Michelle M. Lee, P.G.
February 26 | 3:05 PM – Presentation by Westward Geology Manager Jack Sackrider, P.G.

“Education and open dialogue are essential to raising awareness of mining’s vital role in society. Westward’s “Know Mining” initiative connects industry and the public, highlighting how responsible mining supports modern life, drives economic growth, and provides essential resources for our communities,” said Westward President & CEO Tommy Mathews.