Sheridan, Wyoming, December 3, 2025
Ramaco Resources, led by CEO Randall W. Atkins, will discuss the Brook Mine’s pivotal role in the U.S. critical mineral industry during an upcoming appearance on Fox Business. Located in Wyoming, the Brook Mine represents the first new rare earth mine in over 70 years, aimed at enhancing the domestic supply of vital minerals. The development is expected to bolster national security and foster economic growth in the region.
Ramaco Resources to Discuss Historic Mining Milestone on Fox Business
Chairman and CEO Randall W. Atkins will highlight the Brook Mine’s significance for the U.S. critical mineral industry.
Lexington, Kentucky – Ramaco Resources, Inc. is making waves in the mining industry as it prepares for its Chairman and CEO, Randall W. Atkins, to appear on Fox Business’ Varney & Co. on December 1, 2025. The focus will be on the Brook Mine located in Sheridan, Wyoming, a site that promises to play a pivotal role in revitalizing the U.S. critical mineral market. The Brook Mine represents the first new rare earth mine in the United States in over 70 years and is an ambitious step towards securing a domestic supply of critical minerals that are vital for modern technology and national defense.
The Brook Mine’s development aligns with broader national efforts to reduce reliance on foreign mineral sources and enhance national security. By situating operations domestically, Ramaco is positioning itself as a leader in the U.S. strategic supply chain for rare earth elements and critical minerals. Investing in such projects indicates the company’s commitment to both innovation and sustainability in mining practices.
Understanding the Brook Mine Project
The Brook Mine, situated in Sheridan, Wyoming, is significant not only for its historical value but also for its potential to supply essential minerals that support technology and defense applications. In 2023, Ramaco uncovered a major deposit of primary magnetic rare earths and other critical minerals at this site, which has already secured the necessary permits for operation.
A Step Forward for U.S. Mining
With mining operations already underway, the Brook Mine is also developing a pilot processing plant and laboratory that aims to validate the feasibility of converting domestic carbonaceous ore into high-purity rare earth oxides. Facilitating this is a $6.1 million matching grant from the Wyoming Energy Authority’s Energy Matching Fund, demonstrating strong support from governmental bodies for innovative mining solutions.
Ramaco Resources: A Leader in Coal and Mineral Development
Based in Lexington, Kentucky, Ramaco Resources operates four active metallurgical coal mining complexes across Central Appalachia. The company is not only focused on coal but is also making strides in rare earth and critical mineral production in Wyoming. Holding approximately 76 intellectual property patents related to coal and carbon products, Ramaco exemplifies resilience and entrepreneurial spirit within the mining sector.
The Importance of Domestic Mineral Supply
The development of the Brook Mine represents a critical advancement in enabling the U.S. to secure a reliable domestic supply of essential minerals. As technology continues to advance, the demand for rare earth elements used in various applications—including renewable energy technologies, military hardware, and consumer electronics—grows. Ramaco’s projects are poised to support both economic growth and strategic initiatives in national security.
Economic Implications for Lexington and Beyond
The significance of Ramaco’s initiatives extends beyond the borders of Wyoming and can reverberate throughout Kentucky’s own economic landscape. As a hub for innovative companies, Lexington stands to benefit from such developments through job creation, increased investment, and collaboration across industries. Support for local businesses and resources can drive community involvement and strengthen the region’s economic future.
Conclusion
The announcement of Randall W. Atkins’ upcoming appearance on Fox Business marks a noteworthy moment in the development of the Brook Mine and the broader U.S. critical mineral industry. This project not only reinforces Ramaco Resources’ commitment to sustainable business practices but also enhances national security and economic resilience. Communities in Lexington and beyond should stay engaged with such developments and support initiatives that foster economic growth and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Brook Mine project?
The Brook Mine is a rare earth and critical minerals mining project located in Sheridan, Wyoming. It is the first new rare earth mine in the U.S. in over 70 years and the first new coal mine in Wyoming in more than half a century. The project aims to supply critical minerals essential for technology and defense applications.
What is the significance of the Brook Mine?
The Brook Mine is significant for its potential to supply critical minerals essential for technology and defense applications. In 2023, Ramaco discovered a major deposit of primary magnetic rare earths and critical minerals at the site. The mine is already permitted, and mining has commenced to provide ore for pilot-scale testing. A pilot processing plant and laboratory are under development near the mine to demonstrate the feasibility of converting domestic carbonaceous ore into high-purity rare earth oxides. This facility is supported by a $6.1 million matching grant from the Wyoming Energy Authority’s Energy Matching Fund.
What is Ramaco Resources?
Ramaco Resources, Inc. is an operator and developer of high-quality, low-cost metallurgical coal in southern West Virginia and southwestern Virginia. The company is also a developing producer of coal, rare earth, and critical minerals in Wyoming. Its executive offices are in Lexington, Kentucky, with operational offices in Charleston, West Virginia, and Sheridan, Wyoming. The company currently has four active metallurgical coal mining complexes in Central Appalachia and one development rare earth and coal mine near Sheridan, Wyoming, in the initial stages of production.
Why is the development of the Brook Mine important?
The development of the Brook Mine aligns with national efforts to secure a domestic supply of critical minerals, reducing dependence on foreign sources and enhancing national security. Ramaco’s initiatives in this sector are poised to contribute significantly to the U.S. strategic supply chain for rare earth elements and critical minerals.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Sheridan, Wyoming |
| Significance | First new rare earth mine in the U.S. in over 70 years and first new coal mine in Wyoming in more than half a century |
| Company | Ramaco Resources, Inc. |
| Development Status | Mining commenced; pilot processing plant and laboratory under development |
| Support | $6.1 million matching grant from the Wyoming Energy Authority’s Energy Matching Fund |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rupp Arena’s Growth and Role in Lexington
Jamie Vaught Hosts Book Signing at Middlesboro Library
Ayrton Rivale Fixtures Transform “Big Blue Madness” Experience
Kentucky Volleyball Secures Victory Against Tennessee
Fatal Shooting Near Tates Creek School Campus
Kinemetrix Expands Operations in Lexington with $4 Million Investment
Kentucky Wildcats to Face Morehead State in Season Opener
Ramaco Resources Reports $13.3 Million Loss Amid Industry Challenges
Lexington Police Investigate Human Remains Near Park
YMCA of Central Kentucky Sells High Street Property for Development
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
