#217- 2026 Elko Mining Expo: Kimberlee Longley & Selina Morales

In this episode of Mining Minds, we go behind the scenes of the Elko Mining Expo — a 40-year legacy event that transforms a tight-knit mining community into a global hub of innovation, networking, and opportunity. Sitting down with the powerhouse team at the Elko Convention Center & Visitors Authority, this conversation uncovers the hardwork, coordination, and passion required to bring over 6,000+ attendees, hundreds of vendors, and massive equipment displays together—year after year. From humble beginnings and small-town roots to managing one of the most anticipated mining events in the industry, Selina Morales and Kimberly Longley share their personal journeys, the evolution of the expo, and what it truly takes to execute an event of this magnitude with a team of just ten people. But this episode goes deeper than logistics. It explores the heart of mining communities — the families, the kids, the traditions, and the future workforce. With new ideas like live podcasting, technical sessions, and even a first-ever Miner's Poetry Contest, this year's expo is pushing boundaries and redefining what connection and storytelling in mining looks like. Join us at the 2026 Elko Mine Expo on June 4th at 10:00 AM for a compelling look at the past, present, and future of our industry. We'll be kicking off the event with a live opening session panel podcast featuring some of the most influential voices in mining. And for the first time, Mining Minds will be hosting the Miner's Poetry Contest on June 5th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. From elementary-aged kids to teenagers, to miners and their spouses, we want to hear the voices that truly tell the story of who we are, the experiences we've lived, and what makes this industry so special. Submit your entry by "brassing in" at MiningMindsLLC.com.   Episode Sponsors: Safety First Training & Consulting Motor Mission Machine & Radiator  Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals    Chapters:  02:50 Selena Background 05:28 Planning the Expo 07:13 Kimberly Background 09:18 Convention Center Events 14:54 Expo Growth Upgrades 20:57 Layout and Expansion 26:52 Expo Week Breakdown 31:57 Networking and Engagement 33:15 Booths Networking Value 37:42 Miners Poetry Contest 52:59 40th Anniversary Plans 56:07 Live Podcast Announcement