Sigma Phi Epsilon - Colorado School of Mines

2 SIGMA PHI EPSILON Transforming the Future for Entrepreneurial Mines Students How SigEp Shaped Charles McNeil '71 into Successful Self-Starter Who Pays It Forward A lthough it took a little convincing for him to join Sigma Phi Epsilon during his second semester of freshman year, Charles McNeil '71 is grateful for the rewards he's reaped from his membership in his personal and professional lives. "My experience as a Colorado Delta member strengthened my character, built leadership skills, sharpened my entrepreneurial skills, and I learned to respect my brothers and to develop lifelong relationships," Charlie shared. After graduating, he worked for Consol Energy, the largest coal company in the U.S. at that time. He was relocated six times in six years before moving back to Colorado to lead Kaiser Steel's Coal operation as CEO. Following that position, Charlie started NexGen Resources Corporation on his own, so he could stay in Colorado— his company has been focused on the energy industry, and he's stayed put for more than 35 years. "I've been able to do my own thing business wise, and staying in Colorado was certainly one of my goals," he said. "I'm still involved in the coal business, supplying coal to Xcel Energy power plants in Amarillo and Lubbock, Texas, and we have developed clean coal technology that aids coal-fired power plants in reducing emissions. In addition, I am involved in oil and gas development in The West…including Wyoming, North Dakota, and Oklahoma." His business has also diversified into real estate, with 300,000 square feet in real estate holdings, and consumer financing. "SigEp taught me to be self-reliant and to go out and take a chance," he stated. "For 35 of my 50- year career, I've been an entrepreneur. It's been so rewarding to build my own businesses, create jobs, and grow the economy." With that in mind, he wanted every Mines student to have an entrepreneurial experience and to introduce them to a self- sufficient way of thinking. Thus, Charlie endowed the McNeil Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Colorado School of Mines, and the McNeil Hall was built to house the center. "Each freshman coming in will have two semesters of coursework in entrepreneurship, so they can think about it as they're going through other coursework over the years," he explained. "By the time they are seniors, they might have an idea they want to launch. There's a venture facility and venture capital funding to make it happen. It's a transformative experience for the students and for Mines." With strong Colorado roots, Charlie and his wife, Judy, are dedicated to giving back to their community and the Colorado School of Mines, with the belief that entrepreneurship is a means to professional and personal success. They want to ensure that every student at Mines has the opportunity to learn and grow through instruction and hands-on experiences, particularly through Charlie's "PIE" principles: persistence, integrity, and excellence. "Add an 'S' for service," he said. "Giving back is also key." He has given back to Mines through his time as well by serving on the Board of Trustees. He was appointed by the governor of Colorado and recently completed a four-year term, which was another great life experience with CSM. Charlie is most proud of his family and the happiness they have given him. He and Judy have two sons, one daughter, and 10 grandchildren. "They are the loves of my life and mean more to me than my career." He resides in Denver, and you can connect with him at cmcneil@nexgen-group.com. Alumni Story Time Opportunity D uring the height of the pandemic last semester when the chapter was quarantining in the house, AVC President Eric Wilson '94 offered to host a "story night" via Zoom where he shared experiences from his career. "Why I golf" or "My Most Expensive Mistake" allowed the undergrads to hear how an engineering degree was used in industry. The event was so well received the chapter requested to make it a monthly meeting. Darek Bruzgo '95, Dan Jones '94, and Nate Mahrer '94 all volunteered their stories as well. We'd like to expand our storyteller ranks beyond the '90s; so, please contact Eric if you're willing to take a turn. It's going to stay virtual, so all are welcome—spend an hour and regale the undergrads with your daring feats or spectacular failures!

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