What industry do you work in and what exactly are your skills?
Mineral exploration is my field of work, specialising in drilling as a drill supervisor or manager.
What inspired you to get into this sort of industry?
So that I am able to provide the best I can for my family.
What qualifications and experience did you have to gain In order to establish yourself and therefore become a professional within your industry?
Thus far I have conquered 8 years of experience, starting as an off-sider (assistant) and through hard work and dedication gaining an extensive knowledge and know how, working my way up to supervisor/site manager.
What is the most challenging aspect within your field of work?
There are many challenges I face I with working in this industry but the most challenging I’d say is working in remote areas where communication, traveling and comforts are scares. Additionally, I face the challenge of being away from my family for extended periods of time.
How do you manage and overcome these challenges?
I believe not everyone is cut out for this type of work/life. I believe that I fall in that small percentage of people who are fortunate enough to have the personality and determination to handle it. Knowing for what I make the sacrifices and having a supportive family plays a big part in my success.
What has been the highlight of your career?
Highlights are relative and subjective, but I think the trust and confidence my employers put in me on a daily basis counts among the highlights.
If somebody starts as a trainee / beginner within your line of work, what could they earn in salary?
USD $2000
What can this person expect to earn after 10 years of experience?
USD $13000
Who is your role model and why?
In my own industry and on a local and personal level I must say Derek Ehlers. Not a business owner or mining tycoon, just a hardworking man that knows his field better than anybody I’ve ever came across. It’s inspiring to see him work.
What motivates you to work this hard?
My rewards and motivations differ but I think it all boils down to providing the best I can for my family.
What is your outlook within your industry over the next 5 years?
Like most industries, the exploration industry is feeling the worldwide economic crunch. But I believe that it is a healthy natural cycle that will turn around in the next two years and will climb steadily to a stable and growing market within Africa.
As you know, numerous African countries are being invested in due to their rich minerals. Which country within Africa do you think will be the next hot spot and why?
First and foremost I believe it will be the Democratic republic of Congo (DRC) followed by Angola and then Guinea. Although the DRC are weighed down by corruption, beurocracy and its political instability with the M23 rebel movement, I believe its mineral deposits have yet to be explored. With the mining industry continuing to grow I expect more and more investment and therefore more and more employment opportunities.
