#196- Bob Sterns & Virginia Bennett

As we wrap up our tour to the Minnesota Iron Range, Mining Minds had the opportunity to sit down with Bob Sterns and Virginia Bennett of US Steel Minntac for a raw and insightful conversation about life, mining, and community in Minnesota's Iron Range. From Bob's deep-rooted family history in mining to Virginia's journey from military brat to analytical technician, they share their insight into the mining cycle of the Iron Range and their passion for preserving it through responsible mining. We talk oil analysis, pellet production, the critical role of Iron Range mining in America's infrastructure, and the challenges—and opportunities—of technology like AI and autonomy in mining. With humor, honesty, and a few unexpected tangents, this episode delivers both laughter and lessons. Please help us welcome Bob & Virginia to the Face! Special thanks to Kristen Vake (Iron Mining Association of MN), Julie Lucas and Talia Sandys (Mining Minnesota) for making this episode possible. Although it didn't make it into much of the episode, much of our day was spent talking about Fishing With Vets — a nonprofit dedicated to giving veterans the chance to enjoy the outdoors, connect with others, and find peace on the water. Through guided fishing trips and community events, they honor and support both active duty and retired service members.   Episode Sponsors: JSR Fleet Performance  Motor Mission Machine & Radiator Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals    Episode Chapters: 06:20 A third-generation mining legacy 09:54 Testing samples & catching failures early 13:14 Mining for sustainability vs. production pressure 15:22 Old technology, new challenges 17:06 AI, automation & the union perspective 21:57 Community impact of mine closures 27:02 Military roots to mining career 32:08 How Iron Range connects to global steel 36:23 Passion, pride & America's steel backbone 39:36 Permitting roadblocks & mining's future 43:18 Mining as a career path for the next generation 49:25 Respect for every role—from truck drivers to lab techs