Empowering the Next Generation: Jasmin Bentink’s Epiroc Women in Mining Scholarship Journey
The Epiroc Women in Mining Scholarship continues to empower young women studying STEM fields in Western Australia, offering unique professional development, networking, and practical work experience opportunities within the resources sector.
We recently caught up with Jasmin Bentink, the 2025 scholarship recipient and an environmental science student at the University of Western Australia, to learn more about her experience. Her scholarship journey has been marked by hands-on environmental work, industry engagement, and leadership, all of which have helped shape her understanding of mining’s evolving environmental challenges.
A Year of Growth and Real-World Experience
“The past year has been incredibly rewarding,” Jasmin shares. “Being selected as the Epiroc Women in Mining Scholarship recipient has not only given me a sense of confidence in my academic and career journey but also opened the door to a range of professional and personal development opportunities.”
She began a semester-long internship with Epiroc in 2024. “This role gave me practical, hands-on experience in environmental management, where I worked on projects related to hazardous spill response, carbon emission targets, waste management strategies, and community engagement initiatives.”
“One of the highlights of the internship was visiting Epiroc’s Kalgoorlie service centre, where I conducted an environmental audit and attended the Goldfields Environmental Management Group Conference.”
Jasmin also undertook specialist training. “I also undertook ICAM (Incident Cause Analysis Method) training, giving me a deeper understanding of incident investigations and safety processes in industrial settings with the SHEQ and HR team.”
“These experiences have given me a real-world view of how environmental professionals operate and reaffirmed my passion for working in this space. Epiroc has been incredibly supportive in creating opportunities for me that most undergraduates wouldn’t typically have access to, for which I’m deeply grateful.”
Leadership Beyond the Workplace
“Since receiving the scholarship, I’ve had an incredibly active year filled with new opportunities.”
“I joined the UWA AusIMM Student Chapter Committee contributing to several major events, including our largest-ever Student Meets Industry Night and a visit to the Illawarra Student Chapter in Wollongong to learn more about coal mining and its critical role in the steelmaking process.”
“These experiences have broadened my view of mining and shown me the many ways I can make an impact as an environmental scientist.”
“Additionally, with the continued support from Epiroc, I’ve had the confidence to pursue further leadership opportunities, such as being elected to the WA Mining Club Young Professionals Advisory Committee and was honoured to receive their Environmental Science Scholarship.”
“So far, [the ambassador] role has involved sharing my journey with students and early-career professionals, speaking at industry events, and promoting the importance of diversity and inclusion in mining.”
“Personally, this role means being a visible advocate for women in mining - a role model that I wish I had when I was starting out. It’s about using my voice to encourage others, especially young women, to step into an industry that has shaped me in so many positive ways.”
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
“Programs like this are essential for building a more diverse and inclusive future in mining. They not only provide practical support, such as scholarships and networking, but also send a powerful message that young women and underrepresented groups belong in this industry.”
“Visibility is key - when people see someone like themselves succeeding, it breaks down barriers and challenges outdated stereotypes.”
“By actively championing inclusion and providing real opportunities for growth, these programs help shift the culture of the industry and create a more welcoming environment for everyone.”
Looking Ahead
“With about a year left in my degree, I’m focused on making the most of every learning opportunity, both inside and outside the classroom.”
“I’ll be taking on a site-based environmental role over the summer, which I see as a great chance to apply my knowledge and build real-world skills in sustainability and environmental management.”
“As I move toward graduation, my goal is to step confidently into the workforce with a strong foundation, ready to contribute to an industry that I genuinely believe can make a positive impact.”
Advice to Future Applicants
“I’d tell anyone thinking of applying to just go for it. You don’t need to have everything figured out or be the perfect candidate to take the first step.”
“Often, the hardest part is simply backing yourself and applying. You never know where a single opportunity could lead.”
“If you're even slightly considering it, trust your potential and take the leap.”