On Aug. 15, 2018, Parsons Behle & Latimer (PB&L) lawyer Chad C. Baker was nominated and confirmed as chairman of the 103-year-old Utah Mining Association (UMA). UMA is a non-profit organization that advocates for and advances the mineral resource and related industries in Utah. Baker’s practice focuses on environmental and natural resources and energy and utilities. He has served on UMA’s executive board for the past six years.

PB&L is rooted in the mining industry in Utah and Nevada. Baker says PB&L’s shared history with the mining industry is important because it arms the firm with un-paralleled experience and understanding of the industry and its legal needs. Baker believes PB&L’s greatest strength is its people. He says, “It is their dedication, passion, and knowledge of the industry, the high-caliber work, and a commitment to service and innovation that has allowed PB&L to create and maintain its leadership role in Utah’s mining industry.  Expanding UMA support and participation at UMA events is critical to solidifying and growing the relationship with Utah’s mining industry.”

Baker will serve a one-year term as chairman. He says 2018 has been a solid year for the organization. “The organization is strong, it’s message is well-received and its reach far.” Baker says the industry and the association continue to experience changes that present great opportunity – such as multi-generational work forces; political and regulatory shifts; big-data, automation and substitute goods.  “Over the next year, the Utah Mining Association will work to seize opportunity within these changes and will continue expanding its outreach and growth – whether that be new members, new and expanded participation or new or improved collaboration with others,” says Baker. 

Mining has played a long and important role in Utah, and Baker believes it will continue to do so as Utah’s economy grows and diversifies. He encourages Utah businesses with ties to the mining industry to join the UMA, stating that for more than 100 years, the UMA has been the leading voice supporting and promoting the mining and mineral industries in Utah as well as related goods and Utah service providers. “Membership in the Utah Mining Association ensures continued vibrancy of the association, allows for direct engagement on technical committees, promotes public education and outreach about the importance of mining and its commitment to the environment. UMA membership provides an important opportunity to network and collaborate with leaders in industry and government,” he says. To learn more about the UMA, visit www.utahmining.org

 

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