Why is coal mining important in the movie October sky?

In "October Sky," coal mining serves as a crucial backdrop that shapes the characters' lives and aspirations. The protagonist, Homer Hickam, grows up in a coal mining town, where the industry represents both familial legacy and economic stability. However, it also symbolizes the limitations and dangers of that lifestyle, motivating Homer to pursue his dreams of rocketry and education. The contrast between the mining community's expectations and his aspirations highlights themes of ambition, perseverance, and the quest for a better future.