The Colorado Mining Association kicks off a three-day conference in Denver Monday. The 114th National Western Mining Conference and Exhibition is expected to highlight the industry’s role in the state’s economy.
The mining industry in Colorado accounts for about 20,000 jobs – and contributes roughly $20 billion in economic value to the state, according to a recent study.
“Mining is actually one of the few sectors which was actually able to add jobs during the ‘Great Recession,’ and a very important part of Colorado’s economy. It’s a very important part of the nation’s economy,” says Colorado Mining Association President Stuart Sanderson.
He notes that Colorado has one of the most diverse mineral economies in the US, and ranks among the top ten for coal production. And Sanderson says Colorado is gaining recognition as a center of mining expertise, with a number of national and global mining companies having headquarters in the state.
The conference and exhibition continues through Wednesday at the Westin Tabor Center in Denver.
