SCOTT DEPOT, W.Va., Oct. 8, 2013 -- Arch Coal, Inc. (NYSE:ACI) today announced that John McDaniel, director of engineering and technical services, eastern operations, received the "Because of You" Engineering Professional Award at the fourth Miners' Celebration Conference held recently in Beckley, W.Va. The event celebrated the past, present and future of West Virginia's coal mining enterprise and recognized those who play a role in the state's mining industry.

"John is a true professional and a highly valued member of the Arch Coal team," said Charles Snavely, president of Arch's eastern operations. "We applaud his many contributions to the  coal industry over the years, particularly in the environmental arena, and we're very pleased that these contributions are being recognized."

McDaniel is responsible for providing support to Arch's eastern operating subsidiaries in the areas of environmental and regulatory compliance. He has 31 years of service with the company and has held a variety of positions in planning, regulatory affairs and contract operations. He also serves as chairman of the West Virginia Coal Association's Environmental Technical Committee.

A number of "Because of You" awards were presented to individuals who made significant contributions to selected sectors of the mining enterprise ecosystem. The engineering professional category honors those who guide mining projects' entire process - from the beginning through design, permitting and development - or an engineering professional who provides services related to permitting and specialized design.

"As a third-generation miner, the health of the industry is vitally important to me," said McDaniel. "I am humbled to be recognized for our contributions to the success of coal mining and the protection of natural habitat in West Virginia. This award would not have been possible without the many career opportunities Arch has given me and the support of the entire engineering group."

McDaniel is a graduate of West Virginia University Institute of Technology in Montgomery, W.Va., and holds a bachelor of science degree in engineering technology with an emphasis in mining engineering.

The Miners' Celebration is a cooperative project of the Center for Environmental, Geotechnical and Applied Sciences at Marshall University; the National Coal Heritage Area; the United Mine Workers of America; the West Virginia Coal Association; Strategic Solutions LLC; and the West Virginia Division of Energy, Office of Coalfield Community Development.

U.S.-based Arch Coal, Inc. is one of the world's top coal producers for the global steel and power generation industries, serving customers on five continents. Its network of mining complexes is the most diversified in the United States, spanning every major coal basin in the nation. The company controls more than 5 billion tons of high-quality metallurgical and thermal coal reserves, with access to all major railroads, inland waterways and a growing number of seaborne trade channels. For more information, visit www.archcoal.com.