It’s an honor to be selected to serve as the Colorado Mining Association’s President & CEO as the association enters its 148th year representing mining interests in Colorado. Having previously worked for the National Mining Association in Washington, DC, and having worked on mining related issues on Capitol Hill for members of the Colorado Congressional delegation, the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee, and the U.S. Department of the Interior, returning to the mining industry feels like coming home and I am grateful and humbled to have received such a warm welcome. I want to thank CMA’s members, staff, contractors, and dedicated team of volunteers for their hard work in ensuring a smooth transition.
The mining industry faces unique challenges in Colorado, but also unique opportunities. Mining plays a vital role in providing affordable energy, providing raw materials for emerging technologies and national defense applications, and realizing both our state and our nation’s renewable energy objectives. The degree to which these industries and policy priorities are successful hinges on how we embrace domestic mining and foster an environment that encourages responsible development in Colorado and throughout the U.S. Colorado’s well-regarded mineral endowment coupled with the state’s role as the hub of mining and mining support industry professionals in the West, positions CMA to be a leading voice for its member companies as we move into a new era of mining-based economic growth.
What will no doubt be a busy year begins with our Legislative Reception at the Brown Palace on January 11. This event offers a valuable opportunity to meet with legislators and develop relationships that can help further mining interests in the General Assembly, as well as an excellent forum in which to network with fellow CMA members. For those who are interested in sponsoring the event, please reach out to Susan Raplee at susan@coloradomining.org for more information.
The work of CMA’s Government Affairs, Water Quality, and Coal, Hardrock and Uranium committees will continue to develop CMA’s regulatory, policy, and legal strategy as we address ongoing challenges, prepare for the upcoming legislative session, and explore new ways to proactively impact mining policy. I encourage all CMA members to participate in these meetings to better understand current issues facing the industry, determine CMA’s policy priorities, and strengthen CMA’s strategy.
I encourage all CMA members to feel free to contact me at any time. I look forward to working with each and every one of you to build the organization, amplify its voice, and achieve favorable policy outcomes for mining in Colorado.
Wishing everyone a happy holiday season!
Adam Eckman
President & CEO
Colorado Mining Association
