From large-scale mine reclamations to cutting-edge reality capture and complex electrical system upgrades, Sunrise Engineering has been at the forefront of innovative solutions for mining clients across the western United States. Our multi-disciplinary approach—combining civil engineering, land surveying, and EIC (Electrical, Instrumentation, and Controls)—allows us to tackle mining projects from every angle, ensuring precision, safety, and long-term success.
Here’s a closer look at some of the mining projects that highlight our team’s expertise, adaptability, and commitment to helping clients achieve their goals.
East Waste Rock Reclamation – Rio Tinto Kennecott
Services Provided: Civil Engineering, Surveying
Location: Salt Lake Valley, Utah
Lead Experts: Nate Christensen, PE & Burton Christensen, PLS
One of Sunrise Engineering’s most extensive and long-standing projects is the ongoing East Waste Rock Reclamation at Rio Tinto Kennecott (RTK). Beginning in 2013, this multi-year initiative focuses on reclaiming RTK’s waste rock piles—some of the most visible mining byproducts from the Salt Lake Valley.
Nate Christensen and the civil team have been instrumental in developing strategies that balance large-scale earthwork with stormwater management and environmental responsibility. Using 3D earthwork modeling and extensive stormwater infrastructure design, the team ensures that the reclaimed areas meet stringent environmental standards while aligning with RTK’s long-term goals.
Burton Christensen’s survey team has provided the critical data needed for accurate modeling, using aerial LiDAR, UAV mapping, and 3D scanning to capture precise site conditions.
Why It Stands Out:
- Over 10 years of continuous work, showcasing Sunrise’s long-term partnership with RTK.
- Integrated civil engineering and surveying efforts for environmentally responsible mine reclamation.
- Use of advanced reality capture for accurate modeling and monitoring.
Crusher Relocation & Overland Conveyor – Rio Tinto Kennecott
Services Provided: Civil Engineering, Surveying
Location: Salt Lake Valley, Utah
Lead Expert: Nate Christensen, PE
Another major milestone in Sunrise’s work with RTK was the Crusher Relocation & Overland Conveyor project, completed between 2018 and 2022. This project involved relocating the mine’s primary crusher and designing a five-mile overland conveyor to transport material from the new crusher to the concentrator.
The project required large-scale grading and precise utility planning, with Nate’s team managing complex earthwork and hydrologic studies to ensure long-term stability. The conveyor design needed to navigate challenging terrain while maintaining operational efficiency—an engineering feat that combined practicality with precision.
Why It Stands Out:
- A five-mile conveyor system designed to improve operational efficiency.
- Complex grading and utility planning for long-term durability.
- Collaboration between civil engineers and surveyors to ensure accuracy.
In-Pit Designs & Tailings Development – Rio Tinto Kennecott
Services Provided: Civil Engineering
Location: Salt Lake Valley, Utah
Lead Expert: Nate Christensen, PE
Beyond reclamation and infrastructure projects, Sunrise has supported RTK with in-pit designs and tailings development, providing crucial planning for active mining operations and future site closures.
These designs require constant communication with RTK’s on-site teams to ensure safety protocols are met and that the evolving needs of the mine are addressed. Nate’s team excels in creating flexible plans that adapt to the dynamic nature of mining operations while focusing on environmental impact and long-term site stability.
Why It Stands Out:
- Complex site development planning within active mining operations.
- Integration of safety protocols and evolving mine requirements.
- Long-term environmental planning for future mine closure.
Administrative Facility Relocation – Rio Tinto Kennecott
Services Provided: Civil Engineering
Location: Salt Lake Valley, Utah
Lead Expert: Nate Christensen, PE
Sunrise recently completed a feasibility study for the relocation of RTK’s administration facility from its existing location (referred to as 6190) to a site outside the active mining area.
This project required extensive planning, including traffic flow analysis, utility relocation, and environmental impact studies. Nate’s civil team leveraged its deep understanding of RTK’s operational needs to create a relocation plan that minimized disruption while improving accessibility and safety for administrative staff.
Why It Stands Out:
- Strategic relocation to enhance safety and accessibility.
- Detailed feasibility studies covering traffic, utilities, and environmental factors.
- Close collaboration with RTK’s leadership for streamlined planning.
Thacker Pass Lithium Project – Northern Nevada
Services Provided: Surveying
Location: Humboldt County, Nevada
Lead Experts: Burton Christensen, PLS & Kevin Dawson, PLS
In northern Nevada, Sunrise’s survey team has been heavily involved in the Thacker Pass Lithium Project, one of the largest lithium resources in the United States. This region, spanning from Reno to Elko, offers massive potential for mining development—and Sunrise is helping lead the way with advanced surveying solutions.
Using UAV mapping, LiDAR scanning, and reality capture technologies, the survey team—led by Burton Christensen and Kevin Dawson—has provided critical data for site planning, infrastructure development, and environmental studies.
Why It Stands Out:
- Part of one of the largest lithium resource developments in the U.S.
- Use of cutting-edge reality capture tools for precise planning.
- Strategic expansion into northern Nevada, a region with high growth potential.
Arc Flash & Power Coordination Studies – Rio Tinto Kennecott
Services Provided: Electrical, Instrumentation & Controls (EIC)
Location: Salt Lake Valley, Utah
Lead Expert: Mike Hare, PE
Electrical safety is critical in mining environments, and Sunrise’s EIC team, led by Mike Hare, plays a key role in keeping RTK’s operations running safely and efficiently.
One of the most vital services Sunrise provides is arc flash and power coordination studies. These evaluations ensure that electrical systems are optimized for both safety and performance—protecting workers while minimizing downtime.
Mike’s team also handles power distribution design, equipment upgrades, and on-the-spot troubleshooting. Known for their responsiveness, the EIC team is often called in to address urgent issues and guide contractors through complex installations.
Why It Stands Out:
- Regular arc flash and power coordination studies for RTK.
- On-call support for urgent electrical issues and troubleshooting.
- Strong client relationships built on reliability and expertise.
Innovation, Experience, and Results
Sunrise Engineering’s mining services are defined by a diverse project portfolio, decades of expertise, and a dedication to client success. Whether it’s reclaiming waste rock, mapping lithium fields, or designing the electrical backbone of a mining operation, our teams bring innovative solutions and a client-first approach to every project.
With leaders like Nate Christensen, Burton Christensen, Kevin Dawson, and Mike Hare at the helm, Sunrise Engineering continues to shape the future of mining—one project at a time.
Interested in seeing how Sunrise can support your next mining project? Let’s connect. Our team is ready to bring your vision to life.