Short Courses

1-day, 2-day and 3-day courses available | Colorado Convention Center

All courses include: Course materials, PDH credit, coffee breaks, and lunch.

You may register for a short course either on its own or in addition to your MINEXCHANGE conference registration through the conference registration portal. Short course rates are listed below.

Achieving Operational Excellence Through Applied SPC Equipment Capability & Output Optimization

This one-day course provides participants with a clear, structured overview of a proven methodology for characterizing, controlling, and optimizing equipment performance using Statistical Process Control (SPC). The objective is to equip attendees with the knowledge needed to improve equipment capability, maximize throughput, reduce variation, and embed a sustainable, low-cost operational model.

This course is intended for professionals in Operations, Manufacturing, Process Engineering, Equipment Engineering, Quality, and Technical Management. It is equally valuable for leaders who oversee these functions and need a strategic understanding of SPC-driven equipment and process management.

Sunday (1-day course)
February 28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Member: $400 | Nonmember: $500
7 PDH Awarded
Includes: Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch, Course Materials

Applied Geostatistics in Mineral Resource Estimation

This refresher course provides a practical overview of mineral resource estimation (MRE) with a strong emphasis on geostatistics. Participants will review the typical stages of the resource estimation workflow and its applications in the development and operation of any mining project. Moreover, they will develop a deeper understanding of application of linear and non-linear geostatistics.

The course will focus on the critical aspects of geostatistical analysis in resource estimation and discuss the advantages of various processes and parameters. These sub-topics include i) effective use of geostatistics to support reliable and defensible mineral resource estimates, classification and reporting ii) use in the decision-making processes at various stages of mineral deposit development applications such as exploration and development of a deposit, and iii) effective use in studies and M&A opportunities.

Participants will also gain exposure to commonly used software tools for geostatistical analysis and mineral resource estimation. We will briefly discuss the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to assist in the process.

Expected outcome: The participants will be able to learn the procedures and best practices in resource estimation and critical aspects of the application of geostatistics. The participants will be able to participate in meaningful discussions. More importantly, participants are expected to feel comfortable discussing geostatistical applications at their work.

Saturday and Sunday (2-day course)
February 27-28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm daily
Member: $700 | Nonmember: $800
14 PDH Awarded
Includes: Course Notes, Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch

Beyond the Hype: Practical AI & Analytics for Mining Operations

AI and machine learning are often presented as revolutionary tools that can transform mining operations, but how do these technologies work in practice? This one-day course is designed for mining professionals who want to cut through the hype and develop a grounded understanding of AI, machine learning, and statistical analysis, when to use them, what data they require, and when they should (and should not) be applied to real mining challenges.

Participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to critically evaluate AI-based solutions, ask informed questions, and recognize when AI is the right tool for the job, or when traditional analytics might be a better fit.

Sunday (1-day course)
February 28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Member: $400 | Nonmember: $500
7 PDH Awarded
Includes: Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch, Course Materials

CMSP Review Course

Planning to pursue the Certified Mine Safety Professional (CMSP) credential, and looking for something to jump start your preparations? This 3-day in-person & virtual course is designed to provide a high-level review of the CMSP Body of Knowledge.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (3-day course)
February 26-28, 2027 | 7:00 am – 4:00 pm daily
Member: $895 | Nonmember: $995
21 PDH Awarded
Includes: Course Notes, Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch

Conveyors, Chutes, Bins & Chaos: Designing, Maintaining and Troubleshooting Reliable Bulk Material Handling Systems in the Real World

Tired of fixing the same conveyor problems over and over again? What about banging on bins/hoppers to reinstate flow? This two-day short course is built specifically for mine-site professionals who want real-world solutions to common issues in conveyor design, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

This is not another theory class. Participants will learn what works (and what doesn’t) from seasoned experts using real world problems, hands-on design practices, and an open Q&A session tailored to the issues you’re facing in the field. Whether you’re an experienced or new operator, maintenance supervisor, engineer, or mine manager, you’ll walk away with practical tools to improve belt performance, extend equipment life, and optimize total cost of ownership.

Participants will receive a 30-day license for design software.

Bring your site-specific questions for the Day 2 open forum — it’s your chance to get targeted advice from industry experts.

Saturday and Sunday (2-day course)
February 27-28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm daily
Member: $700 | Nonmember: $800
14 PDH Awarded
Includes: Course Notes, Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch

Fundamentals of Cultural Resource Compliance: An Introduction to the National Historic Preservation Act and an Approach to Stakeholder Engagement

This 1-day course will provide an introduction and overview of the cultural resource compliance process associated with the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA), as implemented in Section 106. Section 106 of the NHPA is triggered by federal actions (e.g., projects involving federal lands, federal funds, or a federal review, license, or permit) and requires federal agencies to consider the effects of an “undertaking” to “historic properties.” The Section 106 process gives interested parties and the public a chance to weigh in on matters related to cultural resources and historic preservation before a federal agency makes a final decision. This collaborative process is designed to balance public needs, including infrastructure and development, agency missions, and historic preservation.

In addition to public engagement, the US government has an obligation to consult with federally recognized, self-governing tribal nations with an interest or connection to the project location. Tribal consultation is a formal government-to-government process that provides sovereign tribal nations an opportunity to participate in the identification of cultural resources and historic properties and the resolution of project effects to resources, including traditional cultural properties. It is increasingly important for project proponents to understand the role tribal consultation plays in the review and permitting process and anticipate the potential outcomes of the Section 106 review process.

While the federal government is ultimately responsible for completing the Section 106 review process and other review and permitting requirements, it is critical for project proponents to take an active role in the process to ensure the project is portrayed accurately and you are able to speak on behalf of your project rather than leaving it in the hands of the lead and cooperating agencies responsible for the compliance process. For many operators, early stakeholder engagement in the planning and development process leads to successful outcomes. In the western US, engagement with Tribal stakeholders is critical to the compliance process, but also to building meaningful relationships between you and the communities most likely affected by development. With consultation required by federal regulations and other third party standards, complementary voluntary engagement builds collaborative relationships, complements corporate social government standards, and may be necessary for borrowers to secure a loan from the World Bank Investment Project Financing (IPF) in accordance with Environmental and Social Framework 8 (ESS8).

This course is designed for mine and exploration owners and operators and environmental and permitting specialists. No previous experience in cultural resource management or environmental permitting is necessary. The course will provide a comprehensive overview of the NHPA and Section 106 process, related federal regulations concerning cultural resources and the permitting process, and examples of successful review and permitting efforts from the Western US mining industry. Participants will gain an understanding of the technical definitions associated with the NHPA and related federal regulations, the Section 106 process from project initiation through the resolution of adverse effects, including the consultation and negotiation of agreement documents, and project implementation. Course instructors and our partners will also share examples of recent projects involving federal approval and permitting, land exchange agreements, and other complex undertakings to demonstrate the successful outcomes that are possible when proponents recognize and engage with the cultural resource compliance process early in project planning and development.

Instructors include cultural resource management experts, tribal cultural specialists, and industry partners experienced in navigating complex regulatory review processes.

In addition to the planned course content, participants will have opportunities to ask questions and gain more detailed understanding of any topics presented or relevant to the course content from personal or professional experiences.

Sunday (1-day course)
February 28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Member: $400 | Nonmember: $500
7 PDH Awarded
Includes: Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch, Course Materials

Fundamentals of Mineral and Metallurgical Processing

This short course is open to anyone wanting to learn about mineral processing and extractive metallurgy operations. It is good as a refresher or introductory course and particularly targets mining and geological professionals needing a background in metallurgy (i.e., geometallurgy). In this regard, the course begins with simple concepts such as sampling, analysis (mineralogical, chemical and size), material balances and smelter schedules. It then introduces attendees to processing methods and equipment, mostly those utilized in the mining industry but also the recycling industry. Various unit operations are reviewed on Day 1 including comminution (crushing, grinding, screening and classification), mineral separations (flotation, magnetic, gravity and electrostatic). Day 2 consists of metal production and purification (hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy and electrometallurgy) as well as environmental management (dewatering, tailings disposal, and waste treatment for water, dust and air). Flowsheets of typical operations are reviewed throughout both days with implications on flowsheet development.

Saturday and Sunday (2-day course)
February 27-28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm daily
Member: $700 | Nonmember: $800
14 PDH Awarded
Includes: Course Notes, Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch

Fundamentals of Sampling & On-stream Analyzers

This course covers the Theory of Sampling (ToS) essentials that have the greatest impact on cost and operations, and the resulting concerns, issues, and compromises. Examples of implementation of samplers for on-stream analysis and process control are provided along with best practices and pitfalls to be avoided. It is presented from a mineral processing perspective, but the fundamentals are applicable to virtually any plant.

A further discussion of various elemental analysis options with advantages and disadvantages is provided so that attendees can be better informed when choosing options for their operations.

Information and examples are kept simple and are easily grasped. Anyone associated with mineral processing and similar plant processes will benefit by understanding the basics. For example, plant Operations & Maintenance, those who develop flowsheets, plant designers, etc. Particularly, process engineers, metallurgical staff, management, lab personnel, and design engineers will find the course useful.

Sunday (1-day course)
February 28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Member: $400 | Nonmember: $500
7 PDH Awarded
Includes: Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch, Course Materials

Introduction to Surface Drill & Blast for Mining Engineers

This is a developmental program designed for engineers looking to achieve stronger skills applied towards successful operations. The course was designed for new-to-intermediate drill & blast or short-to-medium range planning engineers tasked with optimizing blast designs. The course includes technical presentations, example problems, and group activities to train participants to get the most out of drill & blast operations. No special requirements or supplies are needed.

Sunday (1-day course)
February 28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Member: $400 | Nonmember: $500
7 PDH Awarded
Includes: Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch, Course Materials

Introduction to Water’s Role in Tailings Management

The short course objective is to introduce participants to key elements of water management in tailings operations. at mine and processing sites. It will focus primarily on operations involving base metals (Cu, Zn-Pb-Ag, Ni), precious metals (Au, Ag) and iron ore, though some content may be applicable to other commodities. The scope will give preference to tailing process flowsheets that incorporate grinding, physical separation and/or agitation leaching.

Participants will gain an understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of tailings and water management and build a base level of knowledge to better communicate and engage on tailings and water related technical issues, cost drivers, risks and opportunities related to water in tailings systems. This foundation supports more effective collaboration is addressing challenges such as maintaining safe and sustainable production, avoiding conflicts, and addressing regulatory requirements for tailings operations.

As this is an introductory course, detailed content on dam design, geotechnical stability analysis, specific water treatment technologies, design for water conveyance and storage systems or water system modelling using advanced software (e.g., GoldSim) will not be covered. Instead, the course will provide a foundation for professionals to build upon through future training and on job experience.

The course may be complementary with the proposed Tailings and Mine Waste 101 short course that is also being proposed for SME 2027.

Sunday (1-day course)
February 28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Member: $400 | Nonmember: $500
7 PDH Awarded
Includes: Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch, Course Materials

Mine Waste Management 101: An Introduction to Tailings, Heap Leach Facilities, and Mine Rock Storage

Mining operations generate a variety of mine waste streams that must be safely managed throughout the life of a project. While tailings facilities have received significant attention in recent years, effective mine waste management requires an integrated understanding of all major mine waste structures, including tailings storage facilities (TSFs), heap leach facilities (HLFs), waste rock storage facilities (WRSFs), stockpiles, and water management systems.

This one-day introductory course provides a practical overview of the planning, design, construction, operation, monitoring, closure, and post-closure management of mine waste facilities. Developed for mining professionals, project managers, regulators, environmental practitioners, and engineers new to the field, the course explains how different waste facilities function, the risks they present, and the key technical and governance considerations necessary for responsible management.

Participants will learn the fundamentals of tailings management, including tailings production, deposition methods, dam construction approaches, seepage control, monitoring, and emerging industry standards. The course will also introduce heap leach facility design and operation, including liner systems, leach pad stability, solution management, and closure considerations. Mine rock and low-grade ore stockpiles will be examined from the perspective of geotechnical stability, acid rock drainage (ARD) and metal leaching (ML), water management, and long-term environmental performance.

In addition to technical fundamentals, the course will provide an overview of industry-leading practices for risk governance, the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM), environmental and social considerations, dam safety principles, water stewardship, and mine closure planning. Real-world case studies will be used to illustrate successes, failures, and lessons learned from operations around the world.

Upon completion, attendees will have a foundational understanding of the major mine waste facility types, the lifecycle management approach required for responsible stewardship, and the roles that engineers, operators, owners, regulators, and stakeholders play in ensuring safe and sustainable mine waste management.

Saturday (1-day course)
February 27, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Member: $400 | Nonmember: $500
7 PDH Awarded
Includes: Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch, Course Materials

MSHA Part 48 Annual Refresher (Underground and Surface)

The Annual Refresher Course is an 8-hour course and fulfills MSHA’s Part 48 annual training requirement for anyone working at either a surface or underground mine. Upon completion of the course, students will receive an MSHA Form 5000-23 certifying that they have completed 8 hours of annual refresher training for surface, underground or both types of mines, dependent upon the designation indicated on the attendee’s original MSHA Form 5000-23.

Saturday (1-day course)
February 27, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Member: $400* | Nonmember: $500*
7 PDH Awarded
Includes: Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch, Course Materials

*Instructors have donated their time to keep the cost of attendance low.

Regulation S-K 1300 Disclosure by Registrants Engaged in Mining Operations: Lessons Learned

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) introduced new mining disclosure standards that became effective February 25, 2019, and all mining registrants with the United States SEC were required to comply from January 1, 2021 onward. All public mining companies that are registrants with the SEC have now been reviewed at least once by the SEC for compliance with the new rules. The SEC mining staff comment letters have been posted, providing an indication of how well the industry performed in adapting to the mining disclosure rules. The course will focus on key items within Regulation S-K 1300, and provide excerpts from SEC mining staff comment letters to illustrate areas where the SEC mining staff questioned company disclosure and required companies to make changes to SEC filings.

Saturday and Sunday (2-day course)
February 27-28, 2027 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm daily
Member: $700 | Nonmember: $800
14 PDH Awarded
Includes: Course Notes, Coffee Breaks AM & PM, Lunch