Melis Nur Erdem

Mining engineering was not initially part of my career plans. However, with the recommendation of a friend, I decided to add it to my list of preferences, and when the results were announced, I was placed in the mining engineering department. During my university years, I developed a strong interest in project management, which became the area that shaped my career path and where I focused on self-improvement. After graduating, I started looking for work in this field. As a business development and project engineer at Tümad Madencilik, I had the opportunity to play an active role in every stage of a mining project, from the feasibility phase to commissioning and optimization. These experiences contributed significantly to my professional development and knowledge base. Being part of months of dedicated teamwork and witnessing the first gold pour at two major gold mines was the most unforgettable moment for me.

The mining sector is a male-dominated industry, and working as a woman in this field is not always easy. Approaches to challenges, ways of working, sense of humor, and communication styles can differ from men’s, and women are often expected to adapt to them. It has not always been simple, but when you build relationships on the basis of respect and stand firm on your boundaries, these challenges can be overcome.

In Turkey, women have long had a limited presence in the mining sector, but the growing interest of young female engineers is encouraging. In our company too, the number of women in similar positions is increasing. I believe that more women in key roles will improve both diversity and the quality of processes.

Supporting young engineers and interns has always been important to me. I enjoy sharing my experience, helping them develop, and guiding them along their journey. I have supported students during their internships as well as young engineers at the beginning of their professional careers. In addition, I publish a series of posts on LinkedIn to promote professional development and raise awareness.

My advice to those pursuing a career in mining or engineering is to be patient, strong, and determined. Challenges are part of this journey, but with determination, the rewards will follow. What I wish I had known before starting my professional life is that success is not only about hard work. Your communication skills, ability to persuade, stress management, and strategic relationships are just as critical as technical knowledge.

In the coming period, my priority will be to ensure the integration of new technologies and international standards into the mining industry through business development. At the same time, I aim to take on leadership roles in global projects where I can create a broader impact. What motivates me most is learning from the best in the field and working with determination to reach, and even exceed, their standards.

I would like to see an increase in the number of qualified women in the mining sector. I believe their contributions are highly valuable across all areas from management and operations to design, environment, and safety. In addition, I find it essential that women professionals support each other in every way to create lasting change in this industry.

If I had to choose one word, it would be resilience, because working in mining has never been only about technical knowledge or skills. It means staying strong in the face of challenges, adapting to change, and continuing to move forward even when conditions are tough. This journey has taught me tenacity, determination, and courage to push beyond limits. For me, resilience reflects the strength to overcome any challenge and the power to discover one’s true potential.

I enjoy traveling, discovering new places, and learning about different cultures. Being in nature gives me both peace and inspiration. Meditation and yoga help me maintain both mental and physical balance, which allows me to recharge and balance the intensity of professional life.