Smarter
How is the WA mining and resources sector working smarter?
Why are we working smarter?
To some extent, it’s in our DNA. The WA mining and resources sector became the significant contributor that it is to economies and communities around Australia by finding a way to get the job done and solve problems in often challenging circumstance.
But there are very real and compelling reasons to innovate and implement new technology. The biggest is that it makes workplaces safer, by taking people out of potentially harmful situations. Technology is also helping the sector reduce emissions, operate with greater efficiency (which in turn unlocks more resources) and create new types of jobs for West Australians.
Preparing generation next
WA’s mining and resources is committed to developing a workforce of the future, with the skills to not only contribute to our sector but work in a variety of industries.
In 2020, the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA launched a pilot Digital Technologies Program in the Pilbara, introducing school children to the foundations of skills such as coding and robotics, which are likely to be in demand for years to come. The program presents real-world examples of opportunities and challenges faced at operations around WA.
As a result of the success of that trial, the program – supported by the Department of Education and a range of CME member companies – is now being rolled out across the State for both primary and high school students.
You can learn more about the Digital Technologies Program here.
The rewards of seeing technology you helped develop used at the refinery
Christina Fahl is a Research & Development Programme Manager and CME’s 2023 Smarter Ambassador.
Christina explains what she enjoys most about her role, how Alcoa uses virtual reality & drones to improve safety on site, and why teaching her daughters that “gender is not a barrier to … achieving [your] goals” is so important to her.
‘There’s never been a more exciting time’
Woodside Energy Robotics Engineer Kyle Saltmarsh discusses how he developed his interest in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) and transformed that into a career in the mining and resources sector.
He also talks about the importance of having mentors in industry, and the increasing and future importance of automation and data analysis to mining and resources operations.
Innovations in the WA mining and resources sector
How augmented reality is helping mining and resources operations
The data expert shaping a new generation of miners
The technological solution keeping miners safe at work…and beyond
A novel solution to remote sight lighting
Types of technology shaping WA mining and resources
Robotics
Leading the way
WA mining and resources companies are at the forefront of cutting edge robotics technology, working with organisations like NASA on advancements that improve on-site safety.
Automation
Making work safer and cleaner
Automation of mining equipment like haul trucks and even freight trains is not only increasing safety but reducing fuel consumption and unlocking new mineral deposits.
Virtual Reality
Almost the real thing
Using virtual and augmented reality solutions, mining and resources operations can train people hands-on in tasks and situations they will find in the field, before they even deploy to site.
Developing a future workforce
Mining and resources sector companies in WA are strongly focussed on education and training opportunities that equip people with skills and knowledge for jobs of the future. CME’s Digital Technologies Program is providing WA school children with an introduction to robotics and coding.
Energy
Finding cleaner solutions
The WA mining and resources sector is investing significantly in cleaner energy technology to power operations, particularly solar and wind. Many companies are also advancing hydrogen technology as a potential emissions-free fuel of the future.
Smarter rehab
Rolling progress
Many WA mining and resources operations are undertaking progressive rehabilitation – starting restoration activities soon as they have finished work at a location, while mining activity moves to another place on site.
Read more about technology in WA's resources sector
Where mining innovation is going
SAFER
SAFER
Find out how WA’s mining & resources sector is prioritising safety in its operations.
SMARTER
SMARTER
Find out how the WA’s mining & resources sector is using technology to become smarter.
CLEANER
CLEANER
Find out how the WA’s mining & resources sector is using renewables to become cleaner.
SITE REHAB
SITE REHAB
Find out how the WA’s mining & resources sector is refining techniques to rehabilitate old sites.