The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) is shaping future leaders in energy research through immersive summer educational programs. This July, nearly 250 students from across the country participated in hands-on experiences, including a unique underground tour at the Edgar Experimental Mine in Colorado. These programs offer students at all levels—from high school to graduate school—opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.
A Unique Learning Environment Underground
On a July morning, 21 undergraduate interns from NLR donned hard hats and ventured into the Edgar Experimental Mine, operated by the Colorado School of Mines. Located one-half mile (~0.8 km) into the side of a mountain, the mine maintains a constant temperature of 54 degrees Fahrenheit (~12°C), providing a cool respite from the summer heat.
The tour introduced students to industrial mining equipment and the fundamentals of mine safety and engineering. The Edgar Mine serves as both a research laboratory and a training ground for the next generation of mining engineers.
Hands-On Research for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
NLR’s summer programs welcomed nearly 250 students nationwide, offering internships that bridge academic theory with advanced energy research. Anisha Jarang, a rising senior at the University of Virginia studying materials science and engineering, joined NLR to work with the laboratory’s spectroscopy and photoscience group.
Jarang’s project focused on optimizing a technique called charge modulation microwave conductivity, developed by NLR researcher Obadiah Reid. This method uses light and microwaves to study electron movement in organic semiconductor thin films. Under the mentorship of group manager Andrew Ferguson, Jarang aimed to refine the technique and test it on various material systems, contributing to advancements in electronics and display technologies.
Graduate student Irene Walker, enrolled in the Advanced Energy Systems (AES) program coadministered by NLR and the Colorado School of Mines, benefited from access to both university and national laboratory resources. Her dissertation research explored using electrical current to produce calcium carbonate from mine tailings—a mineral essential for neutralizing acidic waste in gold ore processing and valued across multiple industries. Walker’s work, which began four years ago, has expanded to include modeling the recovery of rare earth elements from low-concentration ores and secondary sources.
Competitor Comparison
NLR’s summer educational programs compete with several international experiential learning options for high school and undergraduate students. For example, Rustic Pathways offers the Costa Rica Surf and Service program at $3,295 (~AUD 4,635), targeting ages 14–18 with a focus on global service learning. The Japan Cultural Immersion program, priced at $5,990 (~AUD 8,427), provides cultural experiences for students aged 15–18, while the Fiji Island Conservation program at $3,995 (~AUD 5,620) emphasizes conservation and hands-on learning. Unlike these international programs, NLR’s offerings are based in the United States and provide direct access to advanced research facilities and mentorship from leading scientists.
Historical Context and Regional Availability
NLR’s summer programs have grown to host nearly 250 students from across the United States in 2026, reflecting increased interest in energy research and hands-on STEM education. The Edgar Experimental Mine, a longstanding facility operated by the Colorado School of Mines, continues to serve as a unique resource for both public tours and specialized training.
These programs are regionally anchored in Colorado but draw participants nationally, providing opportunities for students to engage with cutting-edge research and industry partners.
Why this matters
NLR’s summer educational programs provide students with practical experience in energy research, mining engineering, and advanced materials science. By connecting students with real-world projects and expert mentors, these programs help develop the technical and collaborative skills needed for careers in the energy sector.
The focus on hands-on learning and exposure to state-of-the-art research facilities sets NLR apart from many other educational experiences, supporting the development of future innovators in fields critical to sustainable energy and resource management.
What this means for buyers
Students and families considering summer educational opportunities should weigh the benefits of NLR’s immersive, research-driven programs against international experiential options. NLR offers direct access to national laboratory resources and mentorship, making it a strong choice for those interested in STEM careers or advanced research.
Applicants should note that while NLR’s programs are based in Colorado, they are open to students from across the country, providing a valuable pathway for those seeking hands-on experience in energy and materials science.
Key Specs
- Program Host: U.S. Department of Energy’s National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR)
- Location: Edgar Experimental Mine, Colorado
- Mine Depth: One-half mile (~0.8 km) into the mountain
- Mine Temperature: 54°F (~12°C)
- 2026 Student Participation: Nearly 250 students
- Educational Levels: High school, undergraduate, and graduate
- Key Research Areas: Materials science, mining engineering, energy systems, rare earth element recovery
Source
Images sourced from: umich.edu
