Skillings Mining Review November 2019: November 2019 was a month marked by both opportunity and tension in global mining. Our cover story spotlighted Tata Steel’s recruitment of women in mines, a notable step toward gender inclusivity in an industry historically dominated by men. This milestone underscored how workforce diversification is becoming central to long-term resilience.
In the Iron Range region, historical legacies and present struggles intertwined. Features included a look back at the Iron Range labor union movement, an examination of blacklists of companies that clashed with unions, and fresh updates on Fond du Lac’s legal proceedings against mining expansions. These stories highlighted how labor, law, and community rights remain deeply tied to the region’s identity.
Steel and iron ore markets told a story of volatility. U.S. Steel faced lawsuits over Hibbing Taconite leases, while iron ore prices slumped by their biggest monthly fall in eight years, despite Weir Group announcing a record £100m mining order. At the same time, gold mining ETFs and stocks surged in August, reflecting investor flight to safe havens during economic uncertainty.
Mining safety was another defining theme. Reports revealed that miners and gas workers remain at risk of hearing loss, even as 2019 was shaping up to be one of the safest years on record. On the regulatory side, Washington’s attempts to shutter a small coal mine failed, raising questions about consistency in federal oversight.
Across all these developments, November’s edition highlighted the competing forces at play: legal disputes, volatile prices, community resistance, gender diversity, and safety priorities. Collectively, they painted a picture of an industry under pressure but also evolving in meaningful new directions.
