Connecting with mining skills and training needs
AUSMASA’s recent mining engagement has explored apprenticeship pathways, practical training and the skills needed as technology changes.
Workplace visits, industry forums and webinars have provided opportunities to hear from employers, training providers and other stakeholders.
Apprentice selection at Westgold Resources
David Hynes and Andrew Ketchell from AUSMASA’s industry engagement team recently joined Westgold Resources for its apprentice assessment day.
The program included language, literacy and numeracy testing, group activities and ethical decision-making scenarios. Observing these assessments provided a practical look at how Westgold selects prospective apprentices and supports entry into the mining workforce.
Understanding these approaches helps inform discussions about how industry and training providers can strengthen apprenticeship pathways.
Building proficiency at DRILL26
David also represented AUSMASA at the Australian Drilling Industry Association (ADIA) DRILL26 conference in Adelaide. He joined Stuart Baird, Peter Milne and Ili Cava for the ‘Training for Skill, Not Compliance: Developing the Next Generation of Drillers’ panel discussion.
The discussion highlighted the importance of developing practical skills, sound judgement and confidence to work safely and effectively. Nationally recognised training provides the foundation, while workplace experience, meaningful assessment and mentoring help turn competence into proficiency.
AUSMASA is reviewing drilling operations qualifications to ensure training reflects current industry practices and workforce needs.
Workforce priorities for critical minerals
AUSMASA partnered with AusIMM on the Critical Minerals Workforce Development Forum, held following the Critical Minerals Conference 2026.
Dr Imogen Garcia Reid and Matthew Beachcroft represented AUSMASA alongside around 40 senior leaders from industry, government, unions, training and academia.
The forum focused on workforce challenges and opportunities for Australia’s critical minerals sector, including priorities for building a diverse and sustainable workforce.
Preparing workers for changing mining technology
AUSMASA’s third Mining Matters webinar, held on Thursday 8 October, explored how changing technology is reshaping trades, training and career pathways.
Hosted by David Hynes and Andrew Ketchell, the session featured Jarryd Townson from Glencore. Aaron Sharp-Jones from Emeco Group provided written responses, which were read on his behalf.
Contributors highlighted the growing need for skills in high-voltage systems, diagnostics, software and controls within established trades. A key message was to develop workforce capability before new equipment arrives, allowing time for training, practical exposure and mentoring.
Jarryd described Glencore’s use of dual qualifications to broaden apprentices’ skills and prepare them for future technology. He also highlighted emerging operational technology roles and gaps in suitable training pathways.
Earlier exposure to modern technologies, stronger school-to-trade pathways and closer collaboration between employers and training providers were also raised.
The discussion provides industry feedback to inform future training package reviews and workforce planning.