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Mission and Vision

President's Office

Mines Mission

Our STEM-focused education and research produce the talent, knowledge and solutions to serve industry and benefit society – all to create a more prosperous future. It’s the mission Mines was founded on 150 years ago and where we continue to excel today. We’re a community of innovative leaders and resilient problem-solvers who revel in challenges and work together in order to engineer solutions on Earth and beyond.

Vision

Mines will be the premier institution for engineering and science, based on the impact of its students, graduates and research programs.

Colorado School of Mines is a world-renowned institution that continually enhances its leadership in education and research to serve and advance industry, government agencies and communities around the world. By maximizing its top-ranked academic programs, close industry connections, cutting-edge research and a global alumni network, Mines is the go-to place for distinction and expertise in both established and emerging engineering and scientific fields.

Our Core Values

Inquiry and Innovation

At Mines, curiosity fuels discovery and innovation turns ideas into reality. We ask tough questions, explore new possibilities and apply our knowledge to solve today’s biggest scientific and engineering challenges. Through research, creativity and entrepreneurship, we develop solutions that serve industry, benefit society and help shape the future.

A microscope with a gearwheel on top of it.

Inspiration

We inspire one another to aim high, think boldly and make a difference. Through education, research and shared experiences, we empower students, faculty and staff to grow as leaders, innovators and problem-solvers. We believe inspiration sparks the ideas and actions that create lasting impact.

A light bulb with a lightning bolt inside of it.

Challenge

We embrace challenges because they help us learn, grow and discover what's possible. From rigorous academics to real-world engineering and scientific problems, Mines encourages people to push boundaries and pursue ambitious goals. We believe resilience, determination and hard work lead to meaningful achievement.

A blue star

Collaboration

The best solutions come from working together. By bringing together different perspectives, disciplines and experiences, we advance research, drive innovation and tackle complex challenges. Collaboration strengthens our community and expands our ability to make a positive impact.

A person sitting at a table with a speech bubble above them.

Openness

We value honest communication, transparency and the open exchange of ideas. We listen with curiosity, engage in thoughtful dialogue and remain open to different perspectives. By creating an environment where ideas can be shared and explored, we strengthen learning, discovery and innovation.

A circle of people in a circle with a black background.

Compassion

We care about the well-being and success of others. Guided by empathy, understanding and support, we foster a community where people feel valued and encouraged to thrive. Compassion reminds us that our greatest accomplishments are built on genuine care for one another.

a blue heart

Respect

We treat one another with professionalism, fairness and dignity. We value the perspectives and experiences that each person brings to our community and engage with one another thoughtfully and respectfully. Respect builds trust, strengthens collaboration and helps us achieve more together.

A blue line icon of a group of people.
Coorstek Building
Mines Will Be
  • A producer of differentiated and highly desired STEM-educated leaders
  • A leader in educating STEM students and professionals
  • A go-to-place for use-inspired research and innovation needed for challenges facing industry and society
  • Accessible and attractive to qualified students from all backgrounds
  • A great community to learn, explore, live and work
  • A preferred partner for talent, solutions and life-long learning
  • The exemplar for alumni affinity, visibility and involvement
Aerial view of Guggenheim Hall
Mines@150

As Colorado School of Mines celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2024, we developed the Mines@150 strategic plan to position the university for continued success. As a mid-sized institution with a unique focus, we are committed to achieving the following goals:

  • Be a top-of-mind and first-choice university for students, public and private partners, and faculty and staff.
  • Expand offerings and diversify delivery, particularly for professionally oriented pre- and post-graduate education.
  • Grow the scale and impact of research, focus on thematic strengths, develop a more social research culture, and diversify funding sources.
  • Strengthen affinity for Mines among our students, alumni and external partners.
  • Be more innovative and entrepreneurial, especially in the use of our resources.
  • Attract private investment to support our key strategic initiatives.

Mines Pillars

  • Focused public mission

  • Great people (students, faculty, staff, alumni)

  • Honest broker of information

  • Collaborative pursuits of use-inspired innovation and discovery

  • Connections and partnerships, particularly with industry and mission-oriented agencies

  • Elite (but not elitist) institution

  • Challenging practical education and professional preparation

  • Immense pride

Links

2025 Fall Town Hall (PDF)

Mines@150 Playbook (PDF)

The Campaign for Mines@150

1874 Colorado School of Mines was founded in 1874
1883 Mines’ first formal commencement was held in 1883
1933 The first silver diploma was created in 1933
1908 The hillside M was constructed on Mt. Zion in 1908
1885 The school’s fight song, “The Mining Engineer,” was established in 1885