Student Journal - the Melbourne Student Chapter at the Underground Operators Conference
The Underground Operators Conference is one of the largest events on the AusIMM calendar.
When AusIMM reached out in collaboration with BHP inviting the student chapters to attend the 2023 conference, the Melbourne Student Chapter was thrilled at the possibility of attending.
As we touched down in sunny Brisbane, we wondered what we were getting ourselves into - what could a couple of students hope to understand about the vast and daunting world of mining operations? However, we quickly understood the benefit of attending such a broad and interdisciplinary event. From Corrie Pitzer’s day 1 keynote on a new safety system, to the highly anticipated electric vehicle panel on day 2, to the fascinating geotechnical session on day 3 to round out the conference, there were sessions and talks that covered a massive range of topics.
Throughout the conference, we were continually reminded how wide the world of technology is, and how much more there is to learn after graduating. It was exciting to see knowledge being brought together from various fields and SMEs and spoken about in a way that we could grasp.
The learning experiences did not stop at technical learning. Throughout the entirety of the conference there were regular opportunities to network and talk with representatives from some of the top companies in our industry. As students, this was one of the greatest opportunities presented to us at the conference. It allowed us to really learn about the intricacies of our industry which are impossible to gain from university lectures.
It also allowed us to meet potential future employers and understand what employers are looking for. Many of these companies and representatives took great interest in our student chapter and expressed interest in helping our chapter and the students who are a part of it. With the support of industry partners it will be possible to host bigger and better events, which will help to open the eyes of many more students in Melbourne to our amazing industry and all that it has to offer.
Connecting with representatives of the other student chapters was an excellent opportunity to discuss and share ideas with our peers and enabled us to gain a more rounded view of the papers presented at the conference. Being around such a tremendous organising team taught us a lot about organising large events. This knowledge will allow us to organise better quality events for students at universities across Melbourne. We’re excited to be able to give students the opportunity to meet and learn from the leaders in resources, in turn brightening the future of the industry.
This conference proved to be an incredible learning experience. It was humbling to be surrounded by some of the brightest minds in the industry talking about their experiences and expertise and so willing to speak to students and share their advice freely. This created a great atmosphere for intensive learning that lasted the whole event and will no doubt follow through into our connections made.
AusIMM was pleased to partner with BHP to enable the attendance of some of the future talent in the resources sector.