Mine rescue teams play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone working in and around mining operations. This article highlights the dedication, training, and remarkable achievements of Carmeuse’s mine rescue teams, celebrating their commitment to safety and teamwork.
SAFETY FIRST, ALWAYS
At Carmeuse, safety is more than a priority, it’s a core value. From daily operations to emergency preparedness, we are committed to ensuring the well-being of our employees and fostering a culture where safety comes first. Our mine rescue teams are the embodiment of that commitment, dedicating themselves to mastering the skills needed to respond effectively to emergencies.
Excellence in Action
Our teams train rigorously in underground rescue, gas detection, first aid, equipment maintenance, and technical problem-solving. Competitions and training courses across Carmeuse Americas provide realistic scenarios that challenge both physical endurance and teamwork. Below are inspiring examples from Carmeuse mine rescue teams across different locations, highlighting their achievements and dedication to safety. These stories showcase how teamwork, training, and readiness drive success and reinforce our commitment to a safety-first culture.
Missouri: Black River Bandits
At the Missouri Science&Technology Experimental Mine in Rolla, the Black River Bandits showcased their expertise. Steven Smith and Michael Applegate earned first and second place in the Biomarine Bench competition, demonstrating how individual skill strengthens overall team readiness.
Colorado: Luttrell Mine Rescue Team
The Luttrell team earned first place in the Day 2 Field Competition and the top Combination award at the 2025 Colorado Regional Mine Rescue Contest. Led by Trainer Lee Luttrell and Captain Gene Buck, their seamless collaboration and resilience exemplify Carmeuse’s safety-first culture.
Florida: Longview Operation Team
Demonstrating consistent dedication and excellence, Longview has participated in the competition for the last five years and was also named Overall Grand Champion in 2023. At the 6th Annual Surface Mining Emergency Response Training and Competition in Havana, Florida, the Longview team earned the Overall Grand Champion title. They placed first in Day 1 Field Competition and second in both Day 2 Field and First Aid competitions, proving their dedication to keeping operations safe.
“We are so proud of our mine rescue teams and all the hard work they put in
to making Longview a safe environment for us all.” — Sybil Owens, Longview
Human Resources
West Virginia: Maysville Training
The Maysville Mine Rescue Team attended a Mine Rescue Training course at the MSHA Academy in Beaver, WV. Practicing simulated smoke exercises, communication, gas detection, and first aid, they strengthened the skills essential for responding to mine disasters.
People at the Heart of Safety
From competitions to advanced training, these achievements reflect the talent, dedication, and teamwork of our mine rescue professionals. Behind every helmet is a professional whose expertise turns safety into action—reminding us that people are at the heart of everything we do.