Mining engineering professor Dr. Braden Lusk has been named as the recipient of two prominent awards: the J.W. Woomer Award and the International Society of Explosives Engineers President’s Award.

The J.W. Woomer Award is a national award presented by the Coal & Energy Division of the Society of Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration to a recipient in recognition of engineering achievement by young professionals within the industry. Only one individual is recognized annually with this award.

Dr. Lusk will receive the award at this year’s Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration conference to be held February 19-22 in Seattle, WA. His award will read, “In recognition of his dedication to mining education and his engineering accomplishments, especially noting his contributions towards explosives and blasting engineering and in developing rational methods of mine seal design.”

“Dr. Lusk is a well deserving recipient of this award,” says Department of Mining Engineering Chair Rick Honaker. “He is an extremely dedicated and talented engineer who has contributed significantly to the science and processes of explosives and blasting in the mining industry. His work in blast mitigation has greatly enhanced the knowledge of the impacts of blast events on local structures including private dwellings. We are very pleased that his contributions are being recognized with this award.”

Says Dr. Lusk about being named this year’s J.W. Woomer Award winner, “The award means a lot to me. I have a passion for the mining industry and I work really hard to help out in any way I can. This award reflects appreciation for my hard work. It is quite an honor to be recognized in this way.”

In addition, Dr. Lusk recently received a President’s Award from the International Society of Explosives Engineers (ISEE) at their annual awards banquet. According to the ISEE website, “The President’s Award is presented to those who have contributed their time and talent to the organization—for commendable volunteer effort to the Society.”

“I was very surprised to receive this award,” said Lusk.   “It is something I’ve been watching for many years, but thought I was still several years from even being considered for it.  I was honored to receive it.”

Dr. Lusk joined the mining engineering faculty in 2006 and teaches its blasting courses. He gained national exposure with a recurring role on the Discovery Channel’s show The Detonators and his current research areas include blast mitigation, environmental justice and waterside dam security.