“When confirmed, Steve will be an unbelievable asset to coal country and the entire team at the Department of the Interior,” said Secretary Zinke. “Steve is highly regarded in the mining industry for his extensive experience and insight.”

Gardner is currently serving as the president and CEO of ECSI LLC, a consulting practice where he focused on natural resources, mining, reclamation, energy, environmental, health and safety issues. As a licensed professional engineer, Gardner has worked on projects throughout the U.S. and internationally. Gardner was the 2015 president of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME) and is recognized as a distinguished member.