Civil / Structural Engineering
Anna
Role: Acting Manager Operations
Company: Rio Tinto Coal Australia
Courtesy of QRC
What did you study to get into the Mineral’s Industry?
I graduated with a double degree (Civil Engineering and Commerce) from Monash University, Melbourne and joined Rio Tinto Coal (RTCA) as a civil engineering graduate on a new construction site (Hail Creek Mine).
What has your entry to the job of a Civil Engineer involved?
For the first 18 months as a graduate I assisted with overseeing design work and construction contracts for major mine infrastructure and was also involved in the recruitment of the first workforce.
After construction was complete I moved into mining operations where I had several very different roles including mine planning, mine equipment operation, and supervising a drill and blast crew. I was also given the opportunity to work in the Brisbane office as a commercial analyst for four months, where I was involved in two significant projects, one of which included overseas travel.
On completion of my graduate program in 2004, I remained at Hail Creek mine in the role of specialist operations interface to assist in the co-ordination of the mine's $340 million expansion project. In 2004 I also attended a three-week course supported by Rio Tinto at the London Business School, which was a fantastic opportunity.
Through the RTCA graduate program, my career has started with a great balance of variety and depth, including both technical and leadership aspects.
What has been the best aspect of your career so far?
I have been involved in a range of working environments, major projects, mine operations and corporate, but in each have worked with leading experts and specialist staff who have passed on their knowledge and work practices and acted as great mentors during my early years.
I enjoyed my time as a graduate with RTCA and recommend their program as one of great opportunities for all disciplines.
