Thinking about going into the mines

[blong4133]

New to the boards here so my apologies in advance if I'm not follwoing the board's formalities.

But I'm considering applying to a coal mine in West Virginia if law school doesn't work out. The coal mines have always been something I've been interested in, and given the dangerous nature associated with working in coal mines, it has been my "backup plan."

I'm currently a student in law school, but am from West Virginia and understand how important the coal industry is to the state, and the country in general. As a West Virginian, I have a lot of respect for coal miners, and would have no problems looking to the coal mines as a way to provide for my family. As I stated, I'm a true West Virginian and love everything the state stands for, and if law school doesn't work out, I would love to go work in the mines (even though my family doesn't particularly like the idea).

So I guess my question is what are the employment prospects for prospective coal miners in WV? If this is the route I end up taking, what coal mines have the best outlook? I see all of these natural gas wells popping up all around my home and it is a bit discouraging if I do end up looking to the coal mines for my living. Also, does having a college degree give you a leg up on someone who does not have one? Granted my degree is in History, but I'm just trying to find out some information. I will be finding out my grades for school in a week or two, and if it turns out that I didn't do so well, I plan on applying to a coal mine.

So anyone that can offer any good information, or links or anything like that for WV coal mines I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks in advance and God Bless!

Bill L.

[John]

Dec 22, 2011 17:35:38 GMT -5 blong4133 said:

New to the boards here so my apologies in advance if I'm not follwoing the board's formalities.

But I'm considering applying to a coal mine in West Virginia if law school doesn't work out. The coal mines have always been something I've been interested in, and given the dangerous nature associated with working in coal mines, it has been my "backup plan."

I'm currently a student in law school, but am from West Virginia and understand how important the coal industry is to the state, and the country in general. As a West Virginian, I have a lot of respect for coal miners, and would have no problems looking to the coal mines as a way to provide for my family. As I stated, I'm a true West Virginian and love everything the state stands for, and if law school doesn't work out, I would love to go work in the mines (even though my family doesn't particularly like the idea).

So I guess my question is what are the employment prospects for prospective coal miners in WV? If this is the route I end up taking, what coal mines have the best outlook? I see all of these natural gas wells popping up all around my home and it is a bit discouraging if I do end up looking to the coal mines for my living. Also, does having a college degree give you a leg up on someone who does not have one? Granted my degree is in History, but I'm just trying to find out some information. I will be finding out my grades for school in a week or two, and if it turns out that I didn't do so well, I plan on applying to a coal mine.

So anyone that can offer any good information, or links or anything like that for WV coal mines I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks in advance and God Bless!

Bill L.

The only other member I know of, who is in WV and has worked in WV collieries is Lannie, you'll have to be patient until he shows up to answer your questions.

[Mick]

I dont think a degree in history will help you much mate,but if you had one in how to use a shovel you would be miles in front .
Mick ;D ;D ;D.

[blong4133]

Dec 23, 2011 9:39:20 GMT -5 Mick said:

I dont think a degree in history will help you much mate,but if you had one in how to use a shovel you would be miles in front .
Mick ;D ;D ;D.

I figured as much...haha

But I appreciate you two taking the time to respond!

[John]

Dec 23, 2011 13:14:10 GMT -5 blong4133 said:

Dec 23, 2011 9:39:20 GMT -5 Mick said:

I dont think a degree in history will help you much mate,but if you had one in how to use a shovel you would be miles in front .
Mick ;D ;D ;D.

I figured as much...haha

But I appreciate you two taking the time to respond!

Don't quote me on this, BUT, I think you will have to take an approved MSHA course before anyone will employ you in the coal industry. Then you will be considered a trainee miner.

Most of us on here are UK trained by the now long gone NCB/BC and our training is world recognized.
I had no problems when I went to Australia to work as an electrician in the New South Wales coal industry as they recognized my papers and experience.

[dickthecoal]

Blong, please take a tip from someone with 30 years in mining. Work hard at your Law studies, get qualified and forget coal mining. Believe me West Virginia will get by without you. Yes if it's all you've known mining is a great place to nurture commerarderie and blue scars but avoid it if at all possible. Get your law qualifications and if necessary fight the corner for miners who get mamed or seriously injured. Ask any parent which direction they would want thier son to take???