What we learned at Mining into the Future

Digital transformation. Sustainability. Community enrichment. Profitability. Operational efficiencies.

These might sound like buzzwords, but they’re just a few top-of-mind subjects for mining pros on any given day.

The mining industry is undergoing seismic changes. Between growing public pressure for mines to address ESG factors to technology advancements making waves across the industry, the trends that once seemed abstract are quickly coming to life. But it’s not without its own set of challenges, like supply chain concerns and developing a strong workforce. The future of mining is here — so how can mines transform their practices to thrive as the industry evolves?

We united experts in Winnemucca, Nevada to break down the industry’s most pressing issues, so together, we can shape the future of mining.

In case you missed it, here are 3 key takeaways from the event:

1) Innovation is key to meeting sustainability initiatives.

It’s no surprise that the mining industry is facing increased environmental scrutiny. The pressure is on for mining operations to rise to the challenge and meet stakeholder expectations — and we’ve already seen progress across the industry.

In order to achieve long-term sustainability, mining operations need a game plan to future-proof their business models. And according to Ryan Bellows, President of Government and External Relations at NV Energy, the journey toward sustainability starts with innovation.

Mines need to rethink everything from daily operations to the products in their portfolios. Smaller-lift operational transformations like switching to renewable energy can offer benefits such as lower electricity costs and reduced volatility. Mines and other industrial operations can benefit from federal and provincial programs that provide incentives for efficiency, electrification, and renewable energy adoption, helping to reduce emissions while improving operational economics.

Imperial Oil continues to invest in lower-emission fuels such as renewable diesel, supporting customers’ sustainability and performance goals.

What we learned at Mining into the Future is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to sustainability. But when we come together, we have the power to make meaningful changes and shape the future of mining.

2) Mining operations need to invest in cultivating cutting-edge skills.

Between new technology and disruptions in the job market that have been accelerated by COVID-19, the workforce is changing across industries. Instead of fighting change, mining operations need to invest in reskilling and upskilling employees in the coming years to thrive in a new environment.

From robotics to connected devices to data analytics, technology is changing the way mines operate — and can ultimately boost productivity, reduce energy use and increase employee safety. But technology is only as useful as the humans who operate it.

Research shows that 73% of mining companies have identified skills gaps in the local labor market as the biggest barrier to adopting new technology, indicating an overarching need to invest in developing the workforce. By investing in workforce development, mines can position themselves to thrive today and in the future as technology continues to evolve.

3) Together, we can take on the future.

Whether it’s tips to launch your sustainability journey or strategies to cut costs and reduce risk, mining pros have a wealth of knowledge to share. As former Top Gun Vincent “Bluto” Saporito shared during our networking reception, strong leadership and collaboration can empower organizations to transform internal and external perspectives.

When people from all disciplines in the mining industry come together, our unique perspectives become more powerful. Networking isn’t just about connecting with like-minding peers – its impact can be instrumental in helping mines share ideas and prepare for the future as we reimagine the industry.