The Non-Mining Skills That Make a Difference
When asked to picture a mining operation, you are likely to imagine rugged landscapes, bulky machinery, and sweaty workers with dust-covered yellow hard hats. While this imagery still holds some truth, the modern mining industry is undergoing a dramatic transformation, propelled by a wave of groundbreaking technological and artificial intelligence advancements and a new-found obligation to sustainability. This transformation comes in hand with a search for refreshing new skills.
Modern mine sites are thought to be pools of innovation which require diverse skill-sets that go beyond the traditional big muscles and big brains. Geologists and engineers, while still vital to conduct mining projects, cannot carry the operations solely on their shoulders.
3-D Modelling and Animation
Artists, this one is for you. With the use of 3-D modelling, modern mining operators are revolutionising the methods of quite literally visualising and, thus, better understanding mine projects. By creating detailed, computer-generated models, operators gain unprecedented insights into the mine’s geology, structure, and potential hazards. This information is crucial for optimising operations, enhancing safety, and minimising environmental impact. With that said, a bit of artistic skill and a 3-D animation degree can get you deep into a career path in mining.
Drone Operation
Drone footage has become extremely popular on social platforms, everyone seems to be flying one. Or at least attempting to fly one. The skills needed to fly a drone such as precision, patience, steady hands and coordination could serve useful in a mining operation. Agile and versatile, drones are now indispensable tools for mining projects. The drones soar over vast mine sites, capturing high-resolution imagery and data that is invaluable for surveying, monitoring, and inspecting infrastructure. While not as complicated as flying a helicopter, certification and licensing in flying certain high-quality drones is key in attaining a unique drone operator role in the mining industry.
Automation and Robotics
Autonomy is rapidly transforming mining operations. There is less of a need to fulfill truck driver and drill operator roles as more autonomous machinery is invented. From developing and planning autonomous systems to ensuring their smooth operation, a plethora of job opportunities in the mining industry awaits those with skills in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence.
Precision Mining Techniques
Precision mining advocates for a sustainable approach that aims to extract resources with the slightest environmental footprint. Similar to keyhole surgery, precision mining techniques minimise waste, conserve energy, and reduce land disturbance. This emerging field requires diverse skills in areas such as GPS, digital imaging, logistics, blasting, and processing.
Data Analysis
This one is for our trusted data analysts. Large data analytics has paved the way for predictive maintenance. This is a proactive approach in mining operations that makes use of big pools of data collected from sensors and equipment to predict potential breakdowns and failures. This technology optimises maintenance schedules, minimises downtime, and enhances overall equipment lifespan. Expertise in data analysis, machine learning, and maintenance engineering is highly sought after in this field of the mining industry.
Communication Skills
Lastly but most importantly, communication skills will get one far in the mining industry. One cannot undergo such a huge operation without being able to communicate with their workers or colleagues. It is a job that requires extensive team effort and skills in collaboration in order to be completed in a sustainable and efficient manner.
To find out more about the available jobs in the mining sector and the unique skills required, have a look at our job board.
