Ronnie Marcum

B.S., Mining Engineering, 1970

Of his time at Virginia Tech, Marcum remembers the basic but important principles he learned. “The classes I took taught me the principles of many engineering fields; how to solve problems, and how to learn on the job,” he said. “All of what I learned as a student helped me excel as a mining engineer.”

After graduating from Virginia Tech with a bachelor’s degree in mining engineering in 1970, Marcum began a career that included service in the U.S. Navy. From 1974 to 1999, he had multiple roles at the Consolidation Coal Company, the largest underground producer of coal in the United States. He served as vice president of the company’s Illinois operations from 1989 to 1995 and led four groups focused on reclamation work through sustainable design of wetlands, lakes and wildlife preserves of over 100,000 acres, which he views as some of the most satisfying work of his career.  

Marcum went on to become vice president of its western and non-mining operations from 1995 to 1999. His career concluded with his role as executive vice president of engineering for PinnOak Resources from 2003 to 2007.

Marcum has served as chair of the advisory board of the Virginia Tech mining and minerals engineering department, president of the Virginia Tech greater Pittsburgh alumni chapter, and president of the Blacksburg Sports Club.