Montana Tech University's Underground Mining Education Center (UMEC) has received a significant donation in the form of an Epiroc Scooptram ST2D underground loader.
This collaboration between Epiroc and dedicated educators marks an important milestone in enhancing the educational resources available to UMEC students.
The Scooptram ST2D is tailored for narrow vein surgery and has a capacity of 3.6 t, making it a state-of-the-art addition to UMEC's training equipment. This loader is designed to navigate mining tunnels and remove material efficiently, improving students' hands-on learning experience in underground mining and meeting industry standards essential for success in mining engineering. We are committed to providing students with practical skills on equipment.
Associate Professor Scott Rosenthal and Adjunct Professor Sonya Rosenthal spearheaded the effort to procure the Scooptram ST2D for UMEC. Their commitment to mining education and the future of aspiring professionals in the field led to the realization of this donation, facilitated by Epiroc's concessional pricing. Assistant Professor Chris Roos, who was instrumental in identifying this opportunity, recognized the transformative potential of integrating Scooptram ST2D into his UMEC curriculum while attending Yellowstone Dig It Days.
Scott Rosenthal, who inaugurated Scooptram ST2D, emphasized the importance of the donation to UMEC, saying: The introduction of Scooptram ST2D has provided students with practical skills on industry standard equipment, preparing them for success in the mining engineering field, and has received great feedback from mining engineering students. We have received voices of deep gratitude. ”
With advanced safety features such as seat belts and tram alarms, the Scooptram ST2D prioritizes operator health and operational efficiency. Together with Epiroc, the Rosenthals envision this machine becoming an integral part of his UMEC educational framework.
Jonathan Torpey, president and general manager of Epiroc USA and a Montana Tech alumnus, emphasized the importance of state-of-the-art equipment in preparing students for the mining industry. “Epirock USA is proud to participate in this very generous gift facilitated by Scott and Sonya. Having state-of-the-art equipment in operation at Montana Tech UMEC means our students will have access to the latest machinery. It helps us learn and practice, which is an important part of preparing a highly qualified workforce for the mining industry for years to come,” Torpy said.
