Richard “Stik” West started his mining career in 1979 as a mine mechanic for the Kerr McGee Chemical Corporation. He joined the Kerr McGee mine rescue team in 1981 and competed in his first contest in Carlsbad NM in 1982.  Richard won his first bench contest in 1984 and accomplished 22 first place awards in the bench contest including the 2000 National championship. He also served on the mine rescue team in various positions when they actually carried the stretcher. His team consistently performed well at regional competitions as well as 3 Overall championships (Combination) at the National level. Richard has served as the team trainer at WIPP for 14 years total with his teams taking 2 National Championships (1994 and 2016) and the Overall in 2014. As a team trainer he has acquired 7 first place trainer awards.

Richard assisted MSHA and the New Mexico State Mine Inspectors Office in cooperation with the Mexican Government Holding and Judging a Mine Rescue Contest for 3 consecutive years in central Mexico as well as training sessions to prepare their mine rescue teams.

Richard Has responded with his team to 3 rescue/recovery emergencies, 2 resulted in deaths and one fire. He has also responded to multiple emergencies at his own plant, one resulting in a 2 year recovery supporting with a daily watch bill.

Richard has and is currently serving on the National Mine Rescue Rules Committee. He also has served as President of the Southwest Regional Association and is now a Director. He is a Charter member of the J.A. Holmes Mine Rescue Association and serves as the Treasure of that organization.
Richard “Stik” is well known in the Mine Rescue community, with his wiliness to help and share any available resources to his fellow mine rescue teams.