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Brews and Economic Views brings together academia, government, business owners, and community organizations to discuss emerging technologies and trends in Nevada’s twelve economic sectors in an informal setting that fosters discussion, emceed by CBER’s Director, Andrew Woods.
Save The Date!
Brews & Economic Views Presents: Strategic Minerals & Metals and National Security
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Location: Lovelady Brewing, 20 S. Water St., Henderson
Time: 5:00 – 7:30 pm
PRESENTED BY
Strategic Minerals & Metals and National Security: Event Panelists
Amanda Hilton
President, Nevada Mining Association
Amanda Hilton is a fourth-generation Nevadan with deep roots in the state’s mining industry. She previously served as General Manager of KGHM’s Robinson Mine, one of Nevada’s largest and longest-operating mines, where she spent nearly two decades in a variety of leadership roles. Hilton has also served as Chair of the Nevada Mining Association’s Board of Directors and currently sits on the National Mining Association Board. She brings a strong perspective on the role of modern mining in advancing clean energy and strengthening Nevada’s economy.
Simon Jowitt, Ph.D.
Director, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology | Nevada State Geologist
Simon Jowitt serves as Director of the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Nevada State Geologist, and the Arthur Brant Chair in Exploration Geology at the University of Nevada, Reno. An internationally recognized expert in mineral exploration, mineral economics, and the global supply of critical minerals, his work focuses on the intersection of resource development, economic geology, and energy transition. His research provides valuable insight into global metal resources and the strategic importance of securing reliable mineral supply chains.
Brian Scroggins
Administrator for the Division of Planning, Nevada Agency for Nuclear Project
Through his role with the Governor’s Agency for Nuclear Projects, Brian Scroggins works closely with state and local partners on issues related to radioactive waste disposal, transportation, and security. A recognized leader in emergency management, Scroggins has played a key role in major incident response efforts, including the 1 October shooting and the UNLV campus shooting. He was named the 2018 National Emergency Management Volunteer of the Year and is a graduate of FEMA’s National Emergency Management Advanced and Executive Academies.
John Silvia
President, Dynamic Economic Strategy, LLC
John Silvia is President of Dynamic Economic Strategy, where he provides financial and economic advisory services, publishes a weekly newsletter, and speaks at conferences across the country on key economic issues. He is the author of four books on economics and finance and is a highly regarded forecaster. Previously, Silvia served as Managing Director and Chief Economist for Wells Fargo Securities, a role he held for more than 15 years. Before that, he worked on Capitol Hill as Senior Economist for the U.S. Senate Joint Economic Committee and Chief Economist for the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee.
Season Pass
This exclusive pass includes:
- Access to all Brews & Economic Views events in 2026, featuring timely discussions and insights from industry experts.
- Exclusive CBER merchandise to show off their love for economics and learning.
- Two drink tickets at each event.
- A guest pass for one event of your choice, so you can share the experience with a friend or colleague, and two drink tickets.