Hexagon Partners with Montana Technological University to Advance Underground Mining Safety Innovations

Hexagon’s Mining division has announced an exciting new partnership with Montana Technological University, which provides access to the university’s Underground Mine Education Center (UMEC). Through this collaboration, Hexagon will leverage UMEC’s advanced training drifts, specialized equipment, and full-scale mine environment to accelerate the development of state-of-the-art underground mining technologies. The partnership brings together industry expertise and academic resources to enhance mine safety, operator training, and simulation technology, addressing some of the most pressing challenges in the mining sector today.

Enhancing Safety in Deep Mining Operations

As global mines are reaching unparalleled depths to access scarce mineral deposits, safety challenges such as tighter operational spaces, lower visibility, and increased hazards have come into focus. Hexagon has been a leader in providing innovative solutions such as fatigue monitoring, situational awareness systems, and integrated safety platforms. With the support of UMEC’s real-world test environment, Hexagon aims to advance its next-generation collision avoidance systems. These systems are designed to provide real-time safety insights, ensuring better protection for workers and more efficient machinery operations, regardless of the depth and complexity of the environment.

Fostering Innovation and Education

This partnership not only benefits Hexagon but also creates valuable opportunities for Montana Technological University students. Through hands-on training with advanced sensor systems, algorithms, and simulation technologies, students gain real-world experience under conditions that mimic active mining operations. Internship opportunities and access to state-of-the-art development tools further enhance the educational experience, preparing future mining professionals to meet the demands of an evolving industry. As highlighted by Dave Goddard, President of Hexagon’s Mining division, the collaboration bridges the gap between innovation and talent by equipping students with the tools and knowledge to tackle the challenges of modern mining.

Pioneering Industry-Academic Collaboration

Hexagon’s work at UMEC underscores the importance of industry-academic partnerships for driving technological progress. By testing and validating their technologies directly within a full-scale mine environment, Hexagon can fine-tune its solutions to ensure robust performance in real-world conditions. The initiative sets a benchmark for safety and innovation while strengthening academic curriculum through practical applications of cutting-edge developments. In turn, this partnership exemplifies how aligned goals between businesses and educational institutions can benefit both sectors and the broader mining community.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

With over 24,800 employees across 50 countries, Hexagon continues to solidify its position as a global leader in measurement technologies and safety innovations. The collaboration with UMEC is a testament to Hexagon’s relentless commitment to productivity, quality, and sustainability. Advancements in underground safety not only protect workers but also create a ripple effect for more efficient and sustainable mining operations. As Hexagon continues to innovate with real-world applications in mind, miners and educators alike stand to benefit from the practical and life-saving solutions emerging from this collaboration.