WiMSA webinar: The role of innovation and automation – impact on the mining workforce and the role of women

The mining industry has historically been recognised as labour intensive, with conventional mining methods characterised by physically demanding manual drilling processes etc.

The shift in thinking towards a “modernised” mine is due to a combination of factors including extending the life of mining operations, increased mining depths and health and safety dynamics. The introduction of technology is not a replacement of people with machines but rather a transition and transformation to the mine of tomorrow.

The mine of tomorrow is technologically advanced with more modernization, digitization and opportunity- especially in light of the intention to increase the number of women in the mining sector. Currently, women make up to 12% of the mining workforce- a significant improvement from 10 years ago but still a long way from a balanced workforce. The focus and introduction of technology will facilitate the improved representation of women, as the drive towards modernisation through technological innovations will not only make mining more attractive but also more accessible to women.

The continued promotion of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines among girls and women, and the opportunities in the mining industry will allow for increased numbers over time.

Join the Webinar Here!

Register now and join us in a conversation with our panellists:

Petro du Pisani, Head of Business Improvement, Anglo American

Sietse van der Woude, Senior Executive: Modernisation and Safety, Minerals Council of South Africa

Tebogo Marope, Director, Those Devs

Bongi Ntsoelengoe, Cluster Executive Manager – Mining, CSIR

Vanessa Naicker, Head of Early Talent, Anglo American