As we look ahead to 2025, a moment to reflect on mining milestones from 2024

Mining Year in Review for 2024

A look back at the mining moments of 2024.

In mining, something is always moving. And as we move into 2025, a look back at some of the major milestones for the industry.

January: A new year means a new state law gives Minnesota employees the ability to acquire sick time. For U.S. Steel people, that equals about 48 hours a year. Iron Range Resources leaders did outreach at Mesabi East High School. And President Biden visits Superior, and talks about the Blatnik Bridge replacement project.

February: The proposed merger between U.S. Steel and Nippon continues to make headlines. Rival Cleveland-Cliffs opposes the deal. An engineering expo at Rock Ridge included the mining industry. And Chris Masciantonio receives the Hard Rock Miners Award.

March: At the urging of steel producers, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers agrees to open the Soo Locks three days earlier than normal, which is March 25th. MSHA launches an online health tool to help miners. And the USW files a trade case about Chinese shipbuilding practices.

April: Shareholders with U.S. Steel approve the deal with Nippon. The annual SME conference is back at the DECC, and educators have their own track this time. U.S. Steel’s Chrissy Bartovich is named Mining Professional of the Year. President Biden visits Pittsburgh, and says U.S. Steel should remain a totally American company.

May: The first DR grade pellets leave Keetac, and the company hosts a celebration that includes Governor Walz and others. New life for the old Mineview Building in Hibbing. It will now be the office building for the St. Louis County Fair. Tours resume at the Soudan Underground Mine, but flooding in June will stop them again.

June: A Day of Action in Keewatin by the United Way of NE Minnesota, with U.S. Steel the presenting sponsor. The retired ore carrier the William A. Irvin hosts its first Change of Command Ceremony for the U.S. Coast Guard. The International Day of Women in Mining lunch continues to grow. The Michipicoten needs help after a hole develops in her hull while she’s carrying iron ore. And U.S. Steel is recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company.

July: A restored Hy-Rail car debuts in the 4th of July parade in Aurora. It was used by Erie Mining Company. Cleveland-Cliffs announced they plan on acquiring the Canadian steelmaker, Stelco. And the Assistant Secretary of MSHA, Chris Williamson, makes a visit to Minntac to discuss the new silica rule.

August: Iron Range Resources signs off on flooding relief for people in Cook. Mars Supply celebrates 100 years of business. NewRange Copper Nickel announced four new studies for their project. And the IMA brings the Big Dipper down to the Minnesota State Fair.

September: A nail made from iron from U.S. Steel is part of the First Nail ceremony at the capital, which involves the stage for the presidential inauguration. The Mine Expo in Vegas features some companies from the Northland. It happens every four years.

October: Before the snow flew, a look at the progress at the Mesabi Metallics site. Contractors are working to get the DR grade pellet plant ready for producing pellets by early 2026. The company also hosted public tours. So did NewRange Copper Nickel. Kids at Nashwauk-Keewatin toured their new school, which is being built on land donated by U.S. Steel.

November: A new beginning for Stelco and Cleveland-Cliffs. The merger is complete, with Stelco remaining a wholly owned subsidiary. The election results come in, and a longtime steelworker, Cal Warwas, will represent the constituents of 7B. He works at Minntac.

December: And finally in December, the IMA celebrates accomplishments for the year at their annual dinner and meeting at Fortune Bay. New snow guns at Giants Ridge are made possible by Iron Range Resources. The Golden Gophers debut their Taconite Grey jerseys. And the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States submits their report to President Biden about the Nippon deal.