Back to Bluefield

After a pandemic pause in 2021, the Bluefield Coal and Mining Show is returning to southern West Virginia.

The Chamber of Commerce of the Two Virginias, organizer of the biennial Bluefield Coal and Mining Show, is preparing for a return of the event for the 24th time from September 14-16. This year’s theme: “A Show for Mining: Our Past, Present, Future.”

At press time, exhibitors were representing 17 U.S. states and Canada, with many focused on exhibits for underground mining, safety, technology, aggregate, components and major equipment. The host venue, the Brushfork Armory, will also feature a private suite for business negotiations.

Opening the Bluefield show this year will be Alpha Metallurgical Resources CEO David J. Stetson. Stetson will also address a large crowd during the media and exhibitor breakfast prior to the official opening of the event on September 14 beginning at 8:30 a.m.

The executive is chair of Alpha’s board and has extensive experience in the industry and in management, finance, corporate governance and more. Stetson previously served on Contura Energy’s board of directors from November 2018 through April 2019 (Alpha rebranded in February 2021 from Contura Energy) and as chairman of the board and CEO for ANR and Alpha Natural Resources Holdings from July 2016 until its merger with Contura in November 2018.

He is founder and the most recent chairman of MCPA (the Metallurgical Coal Producers Association).

“We are delighted to have the show opened by David … who will provide his unique perspective of the American coal industry when he addresses us. His presentation will be of great interest to everyone at a time when there is certainly a renewed focus on the industry,” said show chair Bob Ramsey, president of Peters Equipment and Ramsey Industrial. 

The Chamber of the Two Virginias, who is organizing the event, said it is expecting 6,000 attendees for this year’s event. Bluefield, originally known as the Bluefield Coal Show, first convened for the industry in 1976.

Special Focus: Bluefield Exhibitors
A number of friends of North American Mining magazine will be at the Bluefield event with their spotlighted products. Check out a few of them below.

Bluefield Manufacturing – Booths 1213-1215
Bluefield Manufacturing is the largest brattice cloth manufacturer in the United States, providing a wide selection of MSHA-approved brattice ventilation curtains. The company’s popular 2900 all-clear fly pad has been carefully designed to provide superior window clear visibility. The 2511 and 3100 also provide this feature with longer wear properties.

Innovative Wireless Technologies, Inc. (IWT) – Booth 205
IWT is the leading provider of underground wireless networks. 

Its SENTINEL system revolutionizes operational processes and offers significant efficiencies that result in greater mine safety and productivity. The SENTINEL Uniti System, which provides “wireless fiber” to the working section, and our new NRTL-approved CO wireless gas monitor with hydrogen compensation are just two examples of how IWT continues to pioneer wireless innovation. 

Visit IWT at booth 205 to learn the latest in operational and mine emergency communications, tracking and remote sensor data – including tailings management. Or start the conversation today at iwtwireless.com. 

Richwood – Booths 111-113
Richwood designs innovative solutions for the worldwide bulk material handling industry. For over 40 years, the busiest mines in the world have put their confidence in our problem solving expertise. 

Clean conveyors and sealed and protected load zones as well as complete chute projects and linings are designed specifically for each application. Richwood’s quality guarantee and reliable presence in the field means lower maintenance costs, safer work areas and more productive and efficient operations for Richwood’s clients. Rely on Richwood, proven solutions, expert advice. richwood.com. 

US Tsubaki – Booth 1103
US Tsubaki will be highlighting all of its traditional coal field chains, including continuous miner, shuttle car, feeder breaker, as well as its power transmission products (sprockets, clutches, etc.). In addition, it will have one of its field service engineers on-site to answer any technical and/or product application questions.