The mining industry has been an important driver of global economic growth and development for many years. As mining companies seek to optimize their operations and improve profitability, they are faced with a range of workforce trends that are shaping the industry. In this white paper, we will explore five key trends impacting the future of work in the mining industry.
Mining companies are increasingly adopting advanced technologies to improve their operations and increase efficiency. From autonomous vehicles to drones and machine learning, the use of technology is revolutionizing the industry. While these advancements have the potential to improve safety, productivity, and efficiency, they also require a workforce with the skills to operate and maintain the technology. Mining companies must focus on upskilling their workforce to ensure they are equipped to work with advanced technology. For further reading, check out How AI is Enhancing the Mining Industry.
As the industry becomes more technology-driven, the skills required of mining workers are changing. Traditional mining skills, such as operating heavy machinery and drilling, are still essential. However, workers are also required to have skills in areas such as data analysis, machine learning, and programming. This means that mining companies must invest in training and development programs to ensure their workers have the skills they need to succeed in the industry.
What kinds of new jobs can we expect to see in mining? Data Analysts, AI Engineers, Robotics Engineers, and Machine Learning Specialists to name a few.
Mining companies are beginning to recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. A diverse workforce brings different perspectives and ideas, which can lead to innovation and increased profitability. Companies are now taking steps to improve diversity and inclusion, including recruiting from underrepresented groups, implementing inclusive policies and practices, and providing training on unconscious bias. Notable mining companies like Agnico Eagle, Barrick Gold and Newmont Goldcorp have made recent commitments to narrowing the wage gender gap (University of Toronto). Learn more by reading ICMM CEO’s call to action: We Need More Honest Conversations About Improving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Mining
Check out the FREE guide we created on How to Promote Diverse Hiring Practices in the Mining Industry, to help mining companies like yours quickly attract and retain entry-level general laborers and support operations roles through essential diversity and inclusion practices.
Automation is becoming increasingly prevalent in the mining industry, with companies investing in technologies such as autonomous vehicles, robotics, and artificial intelligence. While automation has the potential to improve safety and productivity, it also has implications for the workforce. Some jobs may become automated, leading to a shift in the types of skills required in the industry. Mining companies must be prepared to manage this shift and ensure their workers are equipped with the skills needed for the jobs of the future.
A recent Deloitte article reports that “many mine workers are at least 46, and nearly 50% of skilled engineers are reaching retirement age in the next decade”. Mining companies are in danger of critical knowledge and skills being lost if no succession and knowledge transfer plans are put in place. This trend, coupled with reports of fewer new students enrolling in mining programs, resulting in fewer graduates means that mining companies will need to explore alternate talent pathways, double down on employer brand and employee value proposition and treat talent as a strategic pillar, alongside safety, production, and cost control.
“86 percent of mining executives tell us it is harder to recruit and retain the talent they need versus two years ago”
Source: McKinsey: Has Mining Lost Its Luster
Conclusion:
The mining industry is facing a range of workforce trends that are shaping the future of the industry. Mining companies must focus on upskilling their workforce to ensure they have the skills needed to work with advanced technology. Companies must also recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and take steps to improve in these areas. Additionally, mining organizations need to prioritize talent acquisition as a strategic pillar to get ahead of the talent squeeze. Finally, companies must be prepared to manage the impact of automation on the industry's workforce and ensure their workers are equipped with the skills needed for the jobs of the future. By addressing these trends, mining companies can create a workforce that is prepared to meet the challenges of the future and drive continued growth and development in the industry.
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