I have had the pleasure of running into National Union of Mines while taking a scenic shortcut between government space. They are currently a small faction but have been coming along well in several systems. Nick their leader can be found working with his bulk hauler and he has brought NUM into the Allied Trade Factions. They have not been victimized by piracy or drawn into conflicts.
Anyone independant OE players looking for a good mining and trade faction should look into National Union of Mines.