They gave a great presentation about the geology of our area and the mineral resources that continue to be found in the Superstitions from prospecting and core drilling.”

Kenneth Bower, a teacher at Cactus Canyon Junior High School

A team of employees from Resolution Copper recently provided a unique presentation that included the importance of copper, different methods of mining, local geology and even prospective job opportunities to students in Kenneth Bower’s and Marie Wilbur-Bowers’ science class at Cactus Canyon Junior High School, 801 W. Southern Ave. in Apache Junction.

The Resolution Copper team included Ana Vargas, community engagement specialist; Janeane Moreno, advisor for social and community performance; and geologists Nolan Trenchik and Michael Blessington. The team passed around rocks and core samples for hands-on engagement. They also provided the students with a unique look into mining operations, as well as the need for copper for phones, computers and even light bulbs.

“They gave a great presentation about the geology of our area and the mineral resources that continue to be found in the Superstitions from prospecting and core drilling,” Bower said. “They have made over 100 core drillings, some over 7,000 feet, through the volcanic tuff. I appreciated the engaging and rigorous science — and economic — lesson that had every one of our Cactus Canyon students in rapt attention with great Q&A.”

The students’ questions ranged from whether or not gold has been found in the area (yes, as well as silver) to the wages and educational criteria needed to become a geologist (a bachelor’s degree). The team emphasized the need for an educated workforce at the mine and surrounding area. Future employment needs will include a variety of careers that reaches beyond geology and mining to include communication specialists and electricians.

At present Resolution Copper is in the early stages of planning and permitting. The team explained the difference between the two different types of mine operations — open pit and block cave. The operation that is being considered in nearby Superior is block caving. This method, as explained on the company’s website, resolutioncopper.com/economic-impact/mining-method, is an underground mining method that is considered to be safe, environmentally sound and cost-effective for mining a large, deep orebody.

Cactus Canyon Junior High School emphasizes a well-rounded education where academics, sports and extracurricular activities allow students to grow scholastically, physically and emotionally. CCJH students can get a head start on funding their college education by signing up for Pinal Promise, centralaz.edu/pinal-promise in junior high. The program offers a tuition-free education at Central Arizona College for those who fulfill the requirements and graduate from participating high schools in Pinal County such as Apache Junction High School.

Editor’s note: Sally Marks is the public relations specialist for Apache Junction Unified School District.