The University of Alaska Southeast’s Center for Mine Training has created the University of Alaska’s first formal workforce credential — a non-credit credential focusing on entry-level production miner training. Chancellor John Pugh approved the credential, which was developed in partnership with local mines and UA’s Mining and Petroleum Training Service. This is the first such credential approved anywhere in the university system. The major focuses are on federal Mine Safety and Health Administration training and personal certification, knowledge of basic mining terminology and practices, and use of simulated and actual equipment used in underground mining. The entire program for the credential involves 240 hours, working with certified instructors. Visit bit.ly/vVMTzx for more information.