According to the court/judge/patriot coal, if they were not "key" personnel , they aren't worth retaining, therefore replaceable.
"Key" personnel likely have some degree or skill worth retaining, however, like I said, pawns and grunt worker are easily replaceable and likely uneducated/no degree.
Coal industry is in a slump, lowered demand and in heavy competition with natural gas.
Mines are closing and miners are getting laid off. They are a dime a dozen.
Imo