48th Annual International Collegiate Mining Competition
March 25 - 27, 2026 | 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
San Xavier Underground Mining Laboratory 6200 Ocotillo Ranch Road | Sahuarita, AZ 85629
The U of A SME Student Chapter, part of the School of Mining and Mineral Resources, is hosting the 48th International Collegiate Mining Competition. Join students, faculty, industry partners and the local community for a celebration of traditional mining skills.
The competition comprises of seven events:
Mucking Five members work to fill a 2-ton ore cart and run it down a track for the best overall time.
Gold PanCompetitors search for flattened lead shot in a dirt-filled gold pan.
Swede SawA team of five will alternate cutting through a 6"X6" timber with 36" bow saws.
JacklegTwo competitors use a pneumatic drill in order to advance the deepest hole in a concrete block in 3 minutes.
Track Stand A timed event requiring a team of five people to add a section of rail onto an existing rail as quickly and accurately as possible.
Hand Steel Five members drill into a concrete block with chisel-like steels and a hammer, alternating individuals every two minutes for the deepest cumulative hole.
Survey requires a team of two members to collaboratively determine the coordinates of a designated point.
Hotel Information
Please note that hotel accommodations are not included with event registration. Guests are responsible for booking and paying for their own lodging.
The University Marriott Hotel will serve as the designated pick-up and drop-off location for transportation to and from the mine. If you are not staying at the Marriott, you will still need to arrive there to access event transportation.
