Managing Member, Coal River Energy, LLC
by Kensie Hamilton
RECENTLY NAMED King of Coal, Jim Bunn II is a fourth generation coal miner whose career path was a little different than most. “My first experience with coal mining occurred far before I can remember,” explains Jim. “My grandfather mined coal, as did his father-in-law, and my father mined coal. Nearly every kid at my elementary school had a father that mined coal. And, at 14 years old, I started to work in and around coal mines during summer breaks. On my desk, I have a picture of myself at 8 years old dressed as a coal miner.”
Before settling into the coal industry, Jim attended Virginia Tech with the goal of becoming a mining engineer, but he quickly changed his mind and completed his schooling at Appalachian State University with a degree in finance and accounting. He had many job offers for a career in finance when he graduated, but coal had a hold on him that he couldn’t shake. “Dad thankfully never gave up on my return to the coal business and offered me $1,000 per year more than my best offer. My dad got exactly what he wanted for only $83 a month!”
It turned out to be a good move not only for Jim but West Virginia and the 400 employees. “Coal River Energy was a brownfield development. The previous operator had built fantastic facilities, but, due to a very poor coal market and challenging geological conditions, the operation ended in bankruptcy. We were able to purchase the facilities cheaply, which allowed us to develop new mines on the property. This, along with an exceptionally good work force, has made this project work.”
Jim has experienced great success throughout his career in the coal industry and says a key element of that success has been following through on his commitments. “I believe that, to be successful, you have to honor your commitments, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable. Employees, vendors and customers all appreciate this trait and will certainly cheer for you and may even help you along when you most need it.”
Understanding that lending a helping hand helps everyone, Jim spends his spare time providing support to the communities where his employees live. In an effort to help develop the youth of West Virginia, he often works closely with elementary, middle and high schools in the area. “We have assisted local schools with after-school programs, ball fields, playgrounds and even school supplies because, ultimately, it benefits us all.”
Family is an important aspect of life for Jim, as well as a key element in maintaining balance in his life. “While it isn’t perfect, my family is my greatest success. My wife, Brooke, and our three kids have an unbelievable knack for grounding me on good days, elevating me on bad days and forcing me to continually reevaluate my opinions and actions.”
Jim is a member of the First Presbyterian Church and serves as the youngest member on the board of directors of the West Virginia Coal Association. He also serves on the board of directors of the CAMC Foundation, the Kanawha Valley Mining Institute and the Young Presidents’ Organization, and he was instrumental in bringing lacrosse to the Kanawha Valley. “I really didn’t know a whole lot about lacrosse, but I had several friends who would get together with their kids to play,” he says. “My son was interested and we checked it out. This group of parents and kids has now produced a middle school team, three high school teams, several all-state players and a couple of college lacrosse players. It is great to see a new sport become popular because it provides more kids opportunities to participate in after-school activities.”
Photography by Tracy Toler on location at Stonewall Resort
