As we look to 2025, it is a moment to reflect on the outlook for mining from 2024

In mining, something is always moving. As we move into 2025, we take a look at some of the industry’s key milestones.

January: A new year means a new state law gives Minnesota employees the ability to take sick leave. For workers at American Steel, this equates to about 48 hours per year. Iron Range Resources leaders reached out to Mesabi East High School. President Biden visits Superior and talks about the Blatnik Bridge replacement project.

February: The proposed merger between US Steel and Nippon continues to make headlines. Rival Cleveland Cliffs opposes the deal. The engineering exhibition at Rock Ridge included the mining industry. Chris Masiantonio received the Hard Rock Miners Award.

He walks: At the request of steel producers, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers agreed to open the Soo Locks three days earlier than usual, on March 25. MSHA launches online health tool to help miners. The USW makes a trade case about Chinese shipbuilding practices.

AprilUS Steel shareholders approve the deal with Nippon. The annual SME Conference is back at DECC, and teachers have their own track this time. Chrissy Bartovich, of US Steel, was named Mining Professional of the Year. President Biden visits Pittsburgh, says US Steel must remain an all-American company.

maybe: The first DR Keetac-grade pellets depart, and the company hosts a celebration featuring Governor Walz and others. New life for the old Mineview building in Hibbing. It will now be the office building for the St. Louis County Fair. Excursions are resuming at Sudan’s underground mine, but floods in June will halt them again.

June: A Day of Action in Keewatin organized by United Way of NE Minnesota, with US Steel as presenting sponsor. Retired ore carrier William A. Irvin hosts the U.S. Coast Guard’s first change of command ceremony. The International Women’s Day in Mining Luncheon continues to grow. Michipicoten needs help after a puncture wound in her hull while carrying iron ore. US Steel is recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company.

July: The restored Hy-Rail made its debut in the Aurora Fourth of July Parade. It was used by the Erie Mining Company. Cleveland-Cliffs Corporation announced that it plans to acquire Canadian steelmaker Stelco. MSHA Assistant Secretary Chris Williamson visited Minn. to discuss the new silica rule.

August: Iron Range Resources signs flood relief for people in Cook. Mars Supply is celebrating its 100th anniversary. NewRange Copper Nickel has announced four new studies for its project. And the IMA is bringing the Big Dipper to the Minnesota State Fair.

September: A nail made of iron from US Steel is part of D.C.’s first nail ceremony, which includes the stage for the presidential inauguration. The Mine Expo in Vegas features some companies from the Northland. It happens every four years.

October: Before the snow falls, a look at the progress being made at the Mesabi Metallics site. Contractors are working to prepare the DR-grade pellet plant for pellet production by early 2026. The company also hosted public tours. So did NewRange Copper and Nickel. Children in Nashwauk-Keewatin toured their new school, which is being built on land donated by US Steel.

November: A new beginning for Stelco and Cleveland Cliffs. The merger was completed, with Stelco remaining a wholly owned subsidiary. Election results are in, and longtime steelworker Cal Warwas will represent 7B voters. He works at Minntac

December: Finally in December, IMA celebrates the year’s achievements at its annual dinner and meeting at Fortune Bay. New snow cannons at Giants Ridge are made possible by Iron Range Resources. The Golden Gophers debut their Taconite Gray jerseys. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States submits its report to President Biden on the Nippon deal.