Mike Rowe Sits Down with AOM Chairman Tom Albanese to Discuss Critical Minerals and Supply Chains

American Ocean Minerals (AOM) Chairman Tom Albanese recently joined Mike Rowe on The Way I Heard It for a wide-ranging conversation about critical minerals, polymetallic nodules, and the need to rebuild secure mineral supply chains under U.S. control.

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During the interview, Albanese introduced AOM’s mission to help address America’s dependence on foreign-controlled sources of the metals required for energy, defense, advanced manufacturing, and next-generation technologies. The conversation focused on the strategic importance of polymetallic nodules, which contain a diversified basket of critical minerals, including nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese, rare earth elements, iron, and titanium.

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Albanese also discussed why a secure and responsible supply of these materials is essential to American industrial strength. As demand for critical minerals continues to grow, AOM is working to advance a U.S.-controlled platform designed to support long-term supply chain security and reduce reliance on adversarial or unstable sources of supply.

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The conversation also touched on the broader importance of workforce development, responsible resource development, and the need for American leadership in rebuilding the industrial base needed to support the country’s economic and national security priorities.