Hethmon Named to Endowed Chair in Mine Safety

Thomas A. Hethmon — who has held health and safety positions for explosives, building materials and mining companies — is the first occupant of the western mining presidential endowed chair in mine safety in the university’s Department of Mining Engineering. Hethmon will provide specific instruction in the technology and practices of modern safety and health management, and will conduct research emphasizing worker health and safety, especially in heavy industries like mining, oil and gas extraction and construction. The $1.5-million endowment for the new chair was initiated by CONSOL Energy and Barrick Gold North America, and has received contributions from many other companies and individuals. Hethmon previously held occupational health and safety positions with Dyno Nobel Inc., Rinker Materials Corp. and Phelps Dodge Corp.