Scientific and Technical Union of Mining, Geology and Metallurgy celebrates 60th anniversary

Prof. DSc. Eng. Tzolo Voutov, Honorary Chairman of the Scientific and Technical Union of Mining, Geology and Metallurgy, opened the official event marking the 60th anniversary of the organization (16 June).

‘Over the past six decades, we have been guided by a deep commitment to science and its practical application, driven by perseverance and trust in the power of knowledge and cooperation. Through numerous international congresses, scientific symposia and professional forums, we have strengthened the connection between Bulgarian science and industry – both at home and abroad,’ said Prof. DSc. Eng. Voutov in his welcoming address to the attendees.

Looking ahead, Prof. Voutov added:

‘The challenges of our time – stricter environmental standards, the green transition, digital transformation – call for a new scientific spirit, deeper collaboration and forward-thinking. We must move ahead with the same sense of responsibility and commitment that has brought the Union to this remarkable point today.’

In her congratulatory speech, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kremena Dedelyanova, Chair of the Union, emphasized that mining, metallurgy and geology are among the oldest crafts of human civilization and continue to underpin modern technological and economic development.

Today, the Union is a vibrant professional community that includes:
  • Dozens of leading companies from the mining, metallurgy and geology sectors
  • 34 collective members from these sectors
  • Integrated associations such as the Bulgarian Geological Society, the Bulgarian Geophysical Society, and others

The Union is also an active member of numerous national and international organizations, including the World Mining Congress, the International Society for Rock Mechanics, the Balkan Association of Mining Specialists (BALKANMINE), the Federation of the Scientific Engineering Unions in Bulgaria, etc.

The Union continues to organize high-level scientific and technical conferences that address critical industry topics ranging from resource exploration and raw materials processing to environmental protection and clean technologies.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dedelyanova reaffirmed the enduring relevance of the Union’s mission and founding principles with a quote that remains highly pertinent today:

‘To make maximum efforts to implement advanced technologies in mineral exploration, extraction and metallurgy to achieve technical progress, cleaner production, and maximum satisfaction to people’s needs.’

During the official ceremony, honorary plaquettes were presented to prominent professionals whose expertise, vision and achievements have shaped both the present and future of our industries.
Among the honored recipients of golden plaquettes were the following distinguished mining specialists from GEOTECHMIN GROUP са:
  • Prof. DSc. Eng. Tzolo Voutov, Honorary Chairman, who received this award twice in the Union’s history
  • Members of the Union’s Management Board: PhD Eng. Vladimir Vutov (Vice-Chairman), PhD Eng. Ivan Vutov, M.Eng. Dragomir Draganov, M.Eng. Georgi Petrov, M.Eng. Yordan Yonov, M.Eng. Ivo Marinov
  • M.Eng. Kostadin Naydenov, former General Production Director at Ellatzite-Med, was also awarded a golden plaquette
  • The honorary title of “Honoured Geologist” was conferred on M.Eng. Mincho Velevski and M.Eng. Ivan Vasilev from Ellatzite-Med AD.

Geotechmin

A private company with over 30-year history, which has implemented some of the most successful and significant projects in the mining industry, industrial construction, road infrastructure and environmental protection in Bulgaria.