Why TMA?
Being a member of the Tennessee Mining Association offers numerous benefits to individuals or companies involved in the mining industry. Some of these benefits include:
Advocacy and Representation:
TMA advocates for the interests of its members at the local, state, regional, and national levels. The reality is that our industry faces strong opposition from regulators, legislators, and environmental groups, which often harbor a deep-seated dislike for miners and all types of mining operations.
- We work with governments, regulatory bodies, and our board to shape policies and regulations that support the mining industry's growth and sustainability.
- Our industry needs to speak with one voice, and TMA is that voice.
Reputation and Credibility:
Being associated with a reputable mining association, such as TMA, can enhance the credibility of a mining company or professional.
- It signals a commitment to industry standards and best practices.
Networking Opportunities:
TMA provides a platform for networking with other industry professionals, mining companies, suppliers, and more.
- This can lead to potential business partnerships, collaborations, and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
- Additionally, our association is essential for any type of affiliated business seeking to better connect with our operators. After all, TMA members prefer to work with other TMA members, given their shared beliefs & investment.
- TMA offers several opportunities a year to spend time with regulators in relaxed environments such as dinners, receptions, and more.
Access to Information:
Membership in TMA grants access to valuable industry-related information, updates on regulations, market trends, technological advancements, and best practices.
- Staying informed can be crucial for making informed decisions and staying competitive in the market.
Training and Professional Development:
TMA is working closely with our regulators (TDEC, MSHA, etc.) on creating training programs, workshops, and seminars to enhance the skills and knowledge of our members.
- This can contribute to the professional development of individuals working in the mining sector.
Safety and Environmental Standards:
Membership in our association provides access to resources and guidelines that promote safe practices and environmental stewardship within the industry via our safety seminar, newly formed safety committee, awards ceremony, and unparalleled relationship with our regulators at TDEC.
- This can help TMA members comply with regulations and reduce the environmental impact of mining operations.
- Our conferences help members connect with our regulators at TDEC, MSHA & OSM in a relaxed environment.
Market Intelligence and Research:
TMA often conducts research and provides market intelligence to its members.
- This information can aid in identifying new business opportunities, potential markets, and emerging trends in the mining sector.
- We are proud to have strong ties with NMA, TN Mine Rescue Assoc., GMA, AMA, Count on Coal, and more. This leads to increased collaboration among all of us and, thus, access to more information for our members.
Cost Savings:
Membership in our association can provide streamlined access to equipment, supplies, and services from other TMA members, potentially resulting in cost savings for you. In addition, by combining forces and pooling resources together, your voice is stronger when investing in TMA alongside our other operators & affiliated members.
Platform for Collaboration:
TMA offers forums for members to collaborate on addressing common challenges, fostering innovation, and sharing experiences via our growing number of events!
- This collaborative environment often leads to the development of new ideas and solutions, such as mining critical minerals across our state and modern technologies’ ability to feasibly extract rare earth elements in Tennessee.
Community and Social Responsibility:
TMA helps our operations engage in community development and social responsibility initiatives.
- Being part of such efforts has been known to help mining companies build positive relationships with local communities, elected officials, and if applicable, their stakeholders.
Overall, joining the Tennessee Mining Association provides a range of benefits, including access to valuable information each month, networking opportunities from Paris to Nashville to Gatlinburg, cost savings/mining industry investment, and advocacy support in your area. You will find that choosing to invest in TMA aligns with your interests and goals in the mining industry, making TMA a strategic choice for both operations and their affiliates. Our president, membership director, office manager, journalist, and lobbyists are always available to assist members!
As the only mining association in Tennessee, we are confident you will find TMA an essential partner in your company’s interests and goals. Join today!
Reasons Why Our
Members Joined TMA
15 Years of Proven Success: Of defending and promoting mining statewide
Advocacy: From materials to members, TMA is your proponent
Regulatory Relationships: Helping to build better communication and stronger cooperation for everyone
Issues Management: Strategic planning from experienced lobbyists
Policy Input: TMA gives you a seat at the table when actions affect your business
Networking: Meeting other industry leaders means stronger connections
Strength in Numbers: Helps further our reach and influence in the state as well as nationwide
Inclusive: Membership for all types of miners and affiliates
Current Events: News and notes for all things mining
Tailored for You: Dedicated membership director available to contact when needed
Member Perks: Exclusive meetings, communications, and exciting discounts makes being a member even better
Exciting Announcement! (2024)
It is with great excitement that the Tennessee Mining Association would like to announce to you that our new ‘Membership & Marketing Director,’ Chase Laine, has completed his MSHA Hazard Safety Training and New Miner Training in 2024!
Chase is certified for surface/underground metal-nonmetal mining. He attended Nyrstar’s ‘new miner’ training course in March. Special thanks to Mr. Brian Millington and Mr. Bill Hart for this tremendous learning opportunity. We would also like to recognize Mr. Zach Young and Mr. Todd Hale, as well as the Nyrstar trainers/mine rescue team. Lastly, congratulations to ALL of Nyrstar’s ‘new miner’ classes of 2024.
Please join us in congratulating Chase on his new certifications. God bless our miners & the great state of Tennessee!