At the Boise Centre buzzing with conversation and possibility, a group of future mining professionals and geoscientists took their seats in front of mining executives, engineers, and industry leaders. For College of Western Idaho (CWI) student, Kaylene Cecil, stepping onto the stage at the Idaho Mining Conference 2025 wasn’t just about participating in a panel; it was about taking her place in the future of her field.
“I wanted future employers to know we were on that stage because of how passionate we were about the industry, and that peers from my generation share the same excitement,” Cecil said.
Held in Boise Oct. 27 – 28, the two-day conference brought together nearly 1,500 professionals, educators, and students to explore workforce development, innovation, and the future of mining in Idaho. CWI had a strong presence, with faculty, students, and alumni contributing to conversations about preparing the next generation of geoscience talent.
CWI Geosciences Associate Professor, Ander Sundell, shared his perspective on student pathways and industry connections during the session, “Mining for the Future: Workforce Development and Pipeline Expansion.” He highlighted the recent National Science Foundation grant for CWI’s new Mining Technician program, sharing how the College is equipping students with hands-on skills while giving industry partners a workforce that is ready from day one.
“Our students are learning skills in their two years that make them an incredible asset and decrease the need for on-job training,” Sundell said. “I hoped to communicate that we are not just a passive pipeline of students, but that our program is dynamic. We can quickly adapt to the specific needs of our partners.”
Through sessions and conversations at the conference, Sundell could see that industry is paying close attention to higher education and is eager to support students and programs. He pointed to CWI’s collaboration with Perpetua Resources, which includes internships and scholarships, as a strong example of how partnerships are helping students gain career-ready experience.
“Industry is watching and wants to help where it can,” Sundell said. “Our program is gaining notoriety at the state level. I am encouraged that we are seen as an educational leader in this domain, and I think there will be some great things coming out of our involvement.”
Building on that connection between students and industry, Cecil, a second-year Geosciences and Chemistry student, joined peers from different Idaho universities, including CWI alum and current Boise State University student, Armando Lopez, on the panel, “Voices of Tomorrow: Perspectives from the Future Mining Workforce.” Their discussion centered on hands-on learning, student experiences, and what it takes to enter the mining industry today.
“It was a huge honor to represent CWI and my fellow students,” she said. “Hearing other students highlight what helped them aim for success was inspiring, and I wish I could’ve heard those words when I was starting my education, too.”
Part of Cecil’s experience at the conference was attending different panels and breakout sessions for mining industry professionals. Hearing industry experts present new research and ideas reinforced her excitement for the field and her place within it. Speaking on the student panel felt like her own way of contributing to the work shaping the future of geoscience.
“I know for myself, the idea of securing even just an internship felt impossible, and I think a number of students underestimate how attainable those opportunities are,” Cecil said. “I wanted students to know their passions are valid, and that their goals are absolutely within reach.
These goals are ones Cecil has worked hard to pursue, fueled by her passion for the field.
“I’ve always loved science because of how hands-on it is,” Cecil said. “Every field or lab experience helps me walk away with even more knowledge than before.”
Cecil’s interest in geology started young, sparked by collecting smooth river rocks along Idaho waterways, and grew as she discovered how chemistry and geology work together to understand Earth processes. After taking a Physical Geology (GEOL 101) class at CWI, she discovered the career pathways in the field and knew Geosciences was the path for her.
“I can’t wait to study the Earth even more and use my knowledge toward resource exploration, environmental work, and maybe even research,” she said.
Her experience at CWI has included hands-on learning and real-world experience, such as internships with the Idaho Department of Water Resources and Perpetua Resources, where she also received a scholarship supporting her geoscience studies. She credits CWI faculty and other students for playing a key role in fueling her development.
“When you find other people who are as passionate about your degree as you, learning suddenly doesn’t feel like a chore — it feels like an opportunity,” she said.
Cecil shared that her biggest takeaway from her academic journey is the importance of stepping forward and seeking opportunity. That mindset is what opened the door for her to speak at the Idaho Mining Conference and connect with industry professionals and prospective employers.
“I learned that putting yourself out there is a big step toward success,” Cecil said. “Don't be afraid to put your name into the world. It can be such an unnerving feeling to talk to industry specialists in your field, to be a part of those bigger career events while you may still be a student. But you never know unless you try.”
After completing her studies at CWI, Cecil plans to transfer to Boise State University to finish her bachelor’s degree in Geology before pursuing a career in geochemistry in the Gem State.
“At the end of the day, if it involves geology and Idaho, I will have felt successful,” she said.
Learn more about CWI’s Geosciences program and the new Mining Technician program.
