School of Mines President Sees Bright Prospects
Published Apr 16, 2007
Dr. M.W. Scoggins brings the perspective of a petroleum engineer to his job as president of Colorado School of Mines.
Dr. M.W. Scoggins brings a solid background in the global oil and gas business to his position at the helm of Colorado School of Mines.
Scoggins logged more than 34 years with Mobil and ExxonMobil Production Co. before taking the reins as the college’s president in June 2006. He has a Ph.D. in petroleum engineering.
He took time out from his busy schedule to answer questions about the School of Mines’ legacy, challenges and successes.
Q: At 133 years old, Colorado School of Mines has a historic place in higher education. How has educating students changed over the years?
A: This was the first public institution of higher learning to open its doors in Colorado. Founded to help the state’s mining industry with new methods of exploration, mining and recovery, the school now has an international reputation for excellence in engineering education and the applied sciences. Teaching and research have become more complex through the years to meet employers’ swiftly changing needs and to answer the world’s rapidly escalating demand for expertise in our focus areas of earth, energy, materials and environment.
Q: What challenges do educators face in teaching today’s college students?
A: Funding is a particular challenge for educators in Colorado. At Mines we’re working diligently to achieve less reliance on state support.
Nationwide, the failure to invest in research and education in science and technology is creating a crisis that threatens the country’s economic prosperity and global competitiveness.
Q: What challenges do students face as they transition from school to the workplace?
A: Students must learn to embrace change as they enter a fast-paced world of global technological innovation. They must master open-ended problem-solving skills, adopt whole-world thinking and develop practical applications for their discoveries. “School” will not end at graduation. It will continue throughout their work and personal lives.
Q: How is Colorado School of Mines addressing these challenges?
A: Faculty members make sure students develop versatile, real-world skills and leadership capabilities. Beginning in their freshman years, students are exposed to hands-on, experiential learning that is multidisciplinary and involves problem-solving and collaboration. Employers know that Mines grads have a solid educational foundation and exceptional critical thinking skills.
Q: When you look at the work of your school, of what are you most proud?
A: I’m proud of so many of our programs and projects, accomplishments and accolades. But it’s the people – the family of Mines – who make this such an incredible institution. It is a great honor to work with the students, faculty, alums and friends of Colorado School of Mines.
Story by Sue Lenthe
Current Weather Conditions In Golden, CO (80401)
Cloudy, and 31 ° F. For more details?
Click here...
