Class of 2024: Reid Johnke finds a rock solid passion for mining

Hometown: Chesapeake, Virginia

College: College of Engineering

Major/ minor: Mining and minerals engineering major, with a geoscience minor

Favorite Hokie memory: “During my sophomore year, which was my first year in the mining department, the department hosted a cookout outside of Holden Hall when it was newly built. We got to interact with students and faculty, as well as a couple of local mining companies. It was one of the first times I got to meet a lot of people in the mining industry. Dr. Westman also grilled the burgers, so that was really cool.”

Plans after graduation: To go into the mining industry to continue serving others and making a positive impact. 

Unearthing his passion for mining

As a graduate of a high school with a strong emphasis on engineering, Reid Johnke knew he wanted to combine his love for the outdoors with his interest in engineering. One of the benefits of going into the mining industry is the opportunity to work both in the office at a desk, and outdoors doing hands-on fieldwork. For Johnke, the opportunity for an office outside was a selling point. 

“I was always outside collecting rocks when I was a kid. My mom used to complain because I would forget I left rocks in my pockets and wash them in the washing machine,” Johnke said. “I came to Virginia Tech knowing I wanted to be an engineer, and when I learned about the mining and minerals engineering major, I knew it was the perfect fit for me.”

Digging deeper into the industry

Throughout his time at Virginia Tech, Johnke has taken advantage of the many opportunities for internships in the mining department. Last summer, he was an intern at a geotechnical engineering group for Nevada Gold Mines in Elko, Nevada. Johnke performed geotechnical testing and worked with the laboratory technicians to evaluate ground control and rockfill materials. 

“With underground mining, the process of refilling an excavated hole is a fundamental part of the operation. I was in charge of testing the strength and safety of the rockfill to ensure it was working properly,” Johnke said. 

Hands-on experience is deeply ingrained in the curriculum for students pursuing mining and minerals engineering. Internship opportunities truly solidified Johnke’s passion for mining.

“The opportunities I’ve had at Virginia Tech, not just inside the classroom, but all over the country, have been incredible. I’ve gotten to travel and see the industry first-hand, whether that be underground in a coal mine, watching a blast, or interacting with many alumni and professionals in the mining industry,” said Johnke. “There's just so many amazing things you can do, not just in your career, but in the mining department here as well.”

Mentoring the next generation of mining engineers

As an Eagle Scout, Johnke has developed a great work ethic and the desire to serve others. This foundation has guided his educational career and allowed him to have multiple service roles in the department and at Virginia Tech. 

“When I was working to become an Eagle Scout, I developed the mindset of no task being too small,” Johnke said. “I have applied this mindset as I have been working toward becoming a mining engineer as well. In the industry, it’s crucial to abide by all of the safety rules, no matter what, to keep everyone as safe as possible.”

Johnke has also been able to apply his skills inside the classroom as an undergraduate teaching assistant (UTA) for multiple classes in the department. His experience, combined with his desire to serve others, has made a big impact on other students. Rohit Pandey, assistant professor in mining and minerals engineering, witnessed Johnke’s capability as a leader and mentor firsthand when he was a UTA for his Ventilation Engineering class.

“Reid has a strong understanding of technical mining engineering concepts. His experiential learning through internships with major mining operations has enhanced his effectiveness as a teaching assistant,” Pandey said. “He clearly communicates technical concepts and sets high standards for his students, greatly enriching their learning experience, and making him an ideal ambassador of an Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) Hokie.” 

Johnke has also found ways to serve the entire College of Engineering as a mining ambassador in the Bevlee Watford Society for Diversity in Mining Engineering. He has participated in many outreach and recruiting events to help promote mining engineering at Virginia Tech and in the community. 

After graduation, Johnke will go into the mining industry, where he can further his commitment to serving others and making a positive impact.