#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:
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
