West Virginia governor Jim Justice has appointed 45-year mining industry veteran Frank Foster as director of the state’s Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training.
He also has tapped McKennis (Kenny) Browning to be deputy director.
Foster, who previously served in Browning’s position, replaces the retiring Eugene White in the seat in Charleston. He most recently was administrator for the West Virginia Board of Coal Mine Health and Safety.
His tenures in the industry include Massey Energy, Magnum Coal, Jennmar Corporation, Contura Energy Services, Foresight Energy and Patriot Coal.
“Frank Foster has spent his career focused on improving mine safety and training, and I know he’s going to be an excellent fit for this position,” Justice said Nov. 29.
“I thank Eugene White for his tremendous career and wish him the best in retirement. I also want to thank Kenny Browning for temporarily stepping into the position and keeping our miners’ safety the top priority.”
The West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health Safety and Training oversees mining regulation execution and enforcement. It also protects and preserves mining property and property used in connection with mining activities.
Source: governor.wv.gov