Professor Odwyn Jones: Mining Education and Industry Leadership
Professor Odwyn Jones is a highly respected mining engineer and educator whose career has made a lasting contribution to mining education, research and the Australian minerals industry.
Beginning his career as an underground coal mining trainee in Britain at the age of 16, Professor Jones went on to complete a first-class Honours degree in mining engineering at Cardiff University and subsequently build an international career in mining education and industry development.
Professor Jones served as Principal of the Western Australian School of Mines (WASM) from 1976 to 1991, where he strengthened the integration of practical industry experience, academic education and technological innovation. He also established the Brodie-Hall Research and Consultancy Centre, promoting collaboration between academia and industry.
His international work included mining education and consultancy engagements in countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Iran and Ethiopia. He also contributed to Western Australian and Australian trade missions and played an important role in advancing minerals research through MERIWA and its predecessor organisations.
A lifelong learner himself, Professor Jones views continuous education as essential for personal and professional growth. His career, spanning decades of publications, consultancies to numerous international Government agencies, and leadership roles, reflects an insatiable curiosity and adaptability. From his early studies at Cardiff University to his PhD and ongoing contributions to journals like WA’s Medical Forum, he has remained engaged with the world’s evolving challenges.
Professor Jones has been a strong advocate for safety, sustainability, industry-relevant education and Indigenous participation in education. His commitment to mentoring and lifelong learning has influenced generations of mining professionals.
In recognition of his contribution to the minerals industry through research, education, international trade and community service, Professor Jones was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO).
In 2019, MRIWA named a PhD scholarship in his honour, recognising his significant contribution to mining education, research and the Western Australian minerals industry.
The Mining Society is pleased to honour Professor Jones by naming its Distinguished Lecture the Odwyn Jones Distinguished Lecture.