Monday, July 09, 2012

New State Geologist of Montana named


MONTANA TECH ANNOUNCES NEW DIRECTOR OF THE MBMG

Butte, MT--Montana Tech announced today the hiring of Dr. John J. Metesh as the Director of the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG) and State Geologist. Dr. Metesh will replace retiring Director Ed Deal, who has overseen the MBMG since 1998.

Dr. Metesh is currently Assistant Director of the MBMG at Montana Tech. He holds an earned doctorate and has more than 20 years of progressive experience in project and program development, management, and publication that required supervision and collaboration with the public and scientific community. He has constructed and managed large, complex, single and multi-year budgets under state and Federal guidelines. He has participated in numerous public-policy issues related to metal mining, groundwater, coal, and other natural resources in Montana. He holds a Professional Geologist Certificate with the State of Wisconsin and has published nearly 50 reports, articles, and abstracts related to hydrogeology and geochemistry and wrote many unpublished reports that were relied upon for critical decisions related to mine permitting and mine reclamation.

“John brings a wealth of experience and an intimate knowledge of Montana geology to the position of Director,” explained Dr. Doug Coe, chair of the search committee and dean of the College of Letters, Sciences, and Professional Studies at Montana Tech. “We believe he will continue the history of providing strong leadership for MBMG in their role in providing scientifically sound answers to geologic questions important to Montana.” 

Dr. Metesh obtained his Ph.D. in Geology from the University of Montana in 2004. He also holds a master’s degree in Geological Engineering from Montana Tech (1990) and a bachelor’s degree in Earth Science-Geology from Montana State University (1986).

“The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology represents a unique relationship between service to Montana, research, and academia,” added Dr. Metesh. “As a member of the Bureau and a student of the Montana University System, I have enjoyed the benefits of that relationship and look forward to keeping the tradition strong.”

Dr. Metesh has worked for the MBMG for most of his career. He has held the following positions: Hydrogeologist (1989-1990), Assistant Research Hydrogeologist (1990-1995), Associate Research Hydrogeologist (1995-2003), Senior Research Hydrogeologist (2003-2005), Research Division Chief (2005-2011), and currently Assistant Director (2011-present).

“I deeply appreciate the excellent leadership Dr. Ed Deal has provided the Bureau over the past 14 years,” said Montana Tech Chancellor Don Blackketter. “Tech is very fortunate to have Dr. Metesh assuming the Director position. I am confident in John’s leadership and look forward to working with him.”   

Dr. Metesh will begin his new position at the end of September.

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