Women In Mining Education Foundation
Essential to the future of the mining industry.
Our Mission
The Women In Mining Education Foundation (WIMEF) strives to:
- Educate students, teachers and the general public about the importance of minerals
- Develop and distribute mineral educational material
- Obtain funding for other projects that will carry out this mission
- Partner with groups to further mutual education goals
- Assist Women In Mining Chapters in furthering education
“If it can’t be grown, it has to be mined.”
Our mission is accomplished through the distribution of classroom activities, earth science information to teachers and hands-on activities training in workshops. Distribution is accomplished through direct mailing, booths at various conventions, workshops, and the Internet. Educators who do not have Internet access can request free educational packets from the WIM Education Foundation by sending their request on school letterhead.
Our Commitments
Education
We endeavor to educate students, support educators and help inform the public on the importance of minerals and mining.
Advocacy
Throughout our organization, we advocate for a more diverse, equitable and inclusive future for the mining industry.
Empowerment
We empower members through education, professional development and networking.
Inspiration
We hope to generate interest and inspire future generations of mining professionals.
For Educators
Activities for Teachers
Mining Schools
Our Industry Educators
Get Involved with WIM
WIMEF History
The Women in Mining (WIM) Education Foundation has been involved in mineral education since the 1980s. Recognizing the need for accurate educational resources, they began collecting and distributing activities related to earth science and mining for teachers. The overwhelming response led to the formation of a formal Education Foundation in 1992, with its own Board of Directors and legal status. The foundation conducted workshops and short courses at NSTA conferences, provided samples for use in classrooms, and offered support for rock and mineral booths. They have developed numerous activities aligned with National Standards and aim to spread their message by educating teachers, scouts, civic leaders, and others. The workshops focus on the connection between mining and everyday products, involve industry professionals as instructors, address environmental issues, and highlight the safeguards in modern mining. The foundation hopes to bring earth science into classrooms, encourage exploration of mining careers, and welcomes feedback and suggestions.
The Women In Mining Education Foundation (WIMEF) is a non-profit educational organization under Internal Revenue Service 501(c) 3 guidelines and receives funding through grants and tax-deductible individual gifts. WIMEF was granted 501(c)3 status by IRS in 1993 to pursue the opportunity of educating others about the importance of the minerals industry to our daily lives as well as our economy.