Half a world away from the sagebrush and silver hills of Nevada, a delegation representing the 95-80 Regional Development Authority and the State of Nevada was welcomed with open arms this month in Catamarca, Argentina, a mountainous province rich in minerals and culture and opportunity.
The visit, hosted by Governor Raúl Jalil, marked the beginning of a new partnership between Nevada and Catamarca, focused on the future of intelligent mining, technological innovation, workforce training, and academic exchange.
“This meeting marks an important step in deepening ties between Catamarca and Nevada,” Governor Jalil said. “Together we can integrate public, private, and academic sectors to build a more sustainable and inclusive future.”
A video conference linked the group in Argentina with Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo and representatives from the Nevada Mining Association, creating what participants called the start of an “innovation bridge” between two mining regions that share both history and ambition.
Catamarca is known for its lithium and copper resources in Argentina’s northwest and has been expanding its focus on sustainable mining practices and renewable energy. Nevada, with its own deep mining heritage and emerging lithium corridor, proved a natural match.
“Through partnerships and collaboration, we continue to increase our capacity, strengthening our industries and economy,” the 95-80 Regional Development Authority announced following the visit. “The warm welcome to this wonderful region has been astounding.”
The Nevada delegation included Will Adler, Michelle Hammond, and representatives from the University of Nevada, Reno and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED). The group met with Argentine officials, business leaders, and educators to discuss strategies for smart mining technology, workforce development, and student exchange.
The collaboration aims to open doors for both sides: helping Catamarca leverage Nevada’s expertise in mining technology and environmental management, while giving Nevada universities and companies access to global research and emerging South American markets.
“This trip was about expanding on mining, through innovation, technology, training, and environmental responsibility can shape entire regions,” Hammond said.
As the 95-80 RDA continues building partnerships abroad, the ripple effects are expected to reach rural Nevada communities as well, particularly those linked to the state’s mining, renewable energy, and educational sectors.
“We’re making our region and our state stronger and more viable for the future,” Hammond said. “By sharing knowledge across borders, we expand opportunity for everyone.”
Based along the I-80 corridor, the Nevada 95-80 Regional Development Authority serves Pershing, Humboldt, and Lander counties, working to diversify the economy, support innovation, and promote global connections that bring investment and opportunity to rural Nevada.
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