Energy and Critical Materials Summit
October 8-10, 2025
Montana Technological University Library Auditorium
Montana Technological University’s Lance College of Mines and Engineering invites you to the 2025 Energy and Critical Materials Summit—a three-day event dedicated to exploring the future of America’s energy and materials security. Co-chaired by Bob Morris, Lance Energy Chair, and Dr. Jerry Downey, Chair of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, the summit will convene top experts, innovators, and decision-makers for high-impact dialogue.
The program opens on Wednesday evening, October 8, with a special screening of SWITCH, the award-winning documentary by internationally recognized energy expert and filmmaker Dr. Scott Tinker. The following two days will feature a robust lineup of expert panels addressing the most urgent topics shaping the future of energy and critical materials.
Featured Speakers Include:
- Scott Tinker – Global authority on energy systems and the energy transition
- Thomas Lograsso – Director, DOE Critical Materials Innovation Hub and the Ames Laboratory’s Division of Critical Materials
Panel Topics Will Explore:
- Energy and materials as strategic assets for Montana’s future
- National energy policy and infrastructure investment
- Advancing nuclear energy in Montana
- The evolving role of Colstrip in the energy landscape
- Opportunities and demands of data center development
- Innovation in oil and gas
- Mining and critical material supply chains
- Materials processing and recycling technologies
- Environmental and regulatory challenges
- Breakthroughs in energy storage and carbon capture
- National security and defense-critical materials
Through engaging conversations and cross-sector collaboration, the summit will examine the technologies, investments, and policy frameworks needed to secure a reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy and materials future for both Montana and the United States.
The SWITCH film screening is free and open to the public. Summit panel sessions are also open to the public, and registration is available on this website. We especially encourage participation from community leaders, policymakers, industry professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and engaged citizens who are interested in shaping the future of energy and critical materials.