Meet Elissa Quinn-Williams, recipient of the 2027 Epiroc Women in Mining Scholarship

University student Elissa Quinn-Williams has been named the recipient of the 2027 Epiroc Women in Mining Scholarship, recognising her passion for the mining industry, commitment to professional development and dedication to supporting the next generation of women entering the resources sector.

Currently completing a Bachelor of Mining Engineering (Honours), Elissa has spent the past two years studying at the WA School of Mines in Kalgoorlie, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the heart of one of Australia's most significant mining regions.

When she learned she had been selected as the 2027 scholarship recipient, Elissa said she felt honored and excited about the opportunities ahead.

"I guess I was just very honored and grateful to be selected for it and excited about the opportunities that it brings, especially to learn from other people and expand my professional network and also contribute as the ambassador for Women and mining. It's an exciting opportunity."

For Elissa, a career in mining was inspired by an early exposure to the industry through her father, who works in mining.

"My dad works in mining, so I've sort of always been exposed to it from a young age."

A defining moment came during high school, when she participated in a Curtin University and Rio Tinto STEM experience that took a group of female students to mining operations in the Pilbara.

"I just loved it. And I thought, yeah, this is what I want to do. This is where I want to be."
From there, pursuing mining engineering became an obvious next step.
"Engineering was a natural choice, just because I like problem solving, math's and physics. It was sort of set in stone from there."

One of the highlights of Elissa's university experience has been studying at the WA School of Mines and benefiting from Curtin University's strong focus on work-integrated learning.

"It's been really unique spending the last two years at the WA School of Mines in Kalgoorlie, because you're right in the heart of WA mining operations," she said.

"The highlight has been the work integrated learning that Curtin does. We've got constant opportunities for site visits, and they do software workshops and industry presentations."

She believes these experiences have helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world mining operations.

"It's a very hands-on learning environment, which I don't think you get in many other disciplines."Alongside her studies, Elissa has served as Treasurer of the AusIMM Kalgoorlie Student Chapter, helping organise events, strengthen industry connections and support fellow students living away from home.

Reflecting on the role, she said it has reinforced the importance of leadership, collaboration and giving back to the student community.

"It's good to see the value that it brings to the students, having those industry events and networks. It really provides opportunities for the students."

As the 2027 Women in Mining Ambassador, Elissa hopes to use the platform to showcase the opportunities available within the resources sector and encourage more women to consider careers in mining.

"I would like to be able to share my own experience as a student in mining engineering to help build confidence in the industry and just help support the next generation of women entering mining."

She also hopes to demonstrate that there is a place for women in the industry and encourage others to explore the many pathways available.

Looking to the future, Elissa hopes to develop into a well-rounded mining engineer with exposure to a variety of roles across the industry.She is particularly interested in mine planning and the development of new technologies that improve safety and productivity.

Longer term, Elissa hopes to step into leadership roles and help create inclusive workplaces for future generations.

"I'd like to take on leadership responsibilities and help contribute to creating good workplaces for future generations, especially supporting women in those workplaces.

Congratulations to Elissa on being named the recipient of the 2027 Epiroc Women in Mining Scholarship. AusIMM and Epiroc look forward to supporting her journey and seeing the impact she makes as an emerging leader in the resources sector.