The best way to get the local coal industry booming again was the subject of a meeting held at the Hazard Community and Technical College technical campus last Wednesday.

Representatives from coal companies and the LKLP discussed the best way to promote the industry and bring an influx of youth into the business.

According to George A. Owens, Jr., vice president of human resources for Alpha Natural Resources, training the next generation of coal miners is an important component to the success of the business.

"We're an aging workforce," Owens said. "We have got to hire and train the next generation of coal miners. We want to reeducate the community on the positives of mining."

According to Owens, the promotion of the mining industry will lead to a greater interest in mining and will allow for growth in the area.

"Coal is not going to lose its prominence in this area," Owens said. "I don't think we are going to see solar panels or windmills hanging over Perry County anytime soon."

With the help of the LKLP, Owens hopes to hold a job fair in the area where coal companies can set up booths and schedule training sessions and tests for those who are interested in becoming a part of the mining industry.

"Our only true assets are our people," Owens said. "We need to get people interested and excited about the coal industry."