The global mining industry is currently facing a severe worker shortage, creating a remarkable opportunity for Filipino professionals to excel in this field. Countries like Australia and Canada are witnessing a surge in mining investments. In the resource extraction and processing space, Filipino mining engineers, geologists, and metallurgists possess the necessary qualifications to capitalize on these prospects.
On the business side of mining, there is an increasing demand for Filipino accountants, lawyers, business analysts, and human resources. In trades, mechanical fitters and truck and jumbo operators dominate the demand. But how does the Filipino resource professional navigate through and take full advantage of the mining industry worker shortage, enabling them to become globally competent?
The Mining Industry Worker Shortage
The mining industry's worker shortage is primarily attributed to several factors:
- Retirement of the Baby Boomer Generation: The retirement of experienced mining professionals from the baby boomer generation has created a void of expertise that a new generation of skilled workers must fill.
- Lack of New Talent: Attracting and retaining new talent has been a challenge for the mining industry due to misconceptions about the sector. Environmental concerns have discouraged members of Generation Z from pursuing careers in mining according to a report by labor hire agency Techforce Personnel 1.
Additionally, the UK Mining Education Forum (UKMEF) claimed that the British mining sector needs over 60 mining graduates every year, yet not a single student has enrolled in mining engineering and minerals processing courses since 2019 2.
CSG published a mining engineer shortage report in 2020 and adds that even though remuneration levels are high, fewer young people have wanted to study mining engineering, despite the excellent salary that companies are offering 4.
In a recent report by the Australian Tax Office (ATO), it revealed that mining engineers are among the top 10 highest-paid Australian jobs, on par with medical professionals.6 - Global Mining Expansion: The rise in mining activities worldwide has led to an increased demand for skilled workers, intensifying the existing shortage. A report by The Guardian says skills shortage could hamper new mining developments in North Queensland, Australia 3.
BHP, Rio Tinto, and other coal mining companies have since been stressing that skills shortages could potentially affect production and hopes that foreign labor can help 5.
How Can Filipino Resource Professionals Participate?
To become globally competent, Filipino resource professionals could look at the following areas:
- Education: A strong educational background is essential to enter the mining industry. While pursuing a master's degree may not be feasible for everyone, additional certifications can still enhance qualifications. Consider the following programs. Professional Certificate in Foundations of Modern Mining. This program is sponsored by the Minerals Council of Australia, which provides an opportunity to update knowledge and gain recognition in the field. This program is jointly offered by The University of Queensland and Curtin University-Western Australia School of Mines offered through the edX learning platform. Executive Microdiploma in Economic Leadership for Mining. This program is a non-credit program offered by the Bradshaw Research Initiative for Minerals and Mining (BRIMM) at the University of British Columbia. This online program is composed of four different streams: mineral processing, sustainability, finance, and exploration economics.
- Practical Experience: Gaining practical experience is crucial for honing skills specific to the mining industry. Seek graduate positions if you are a fresh graduate and target international mining companies or contractors operating in the Philippines. Additionally, virtual work programs, such as those offered by Forage, can provide valuable experience to showcase your abilities.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network is essential for career advancement. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals, join relevant industry associations, and attend mining events to expand your network. Engaging with recruiters and industry experts increases your chances of being noticed and considered for job opportunities.
- Work Visa: Investing in obtaining a work visa for your desired country of employment is crucial. Rarely do companies sponsor employment, so having a valid work visa gives you a competitive advantage in the hiring process.
- Membership: Consider becoming a member of professional organizations such as the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM). Membership offers networking opportunities, and access to professional development courses, and enhances your professional credibility.
- Software Proficiency: Proficiency in software used in the mining industry is highly valuable. Invest time in learning and mastering relevant software tools, as they play a crucial role in various mining tasks.
- Volunteer Work: Volunteering for organizations related to mining and resource development can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities. Consider joining volunteer initiatives focusing on environmental stewardship or community engagement in the mining sector.
Conclusion
The current worker shortage in the mining industry presents a significant opportunity for Filipino resource professionals to excel on a global scale. With quality education, technical expertise, strong work ethic, and adaptability, Filipinos are well-suited to meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the mining sector.
By continuously developing their skills, networking within the industry, and seizing international job opportunities, Filipino professionals can contribute to the success of the global mining industry while advancing their own careers. Embracing these strategies and taking advantage of the available resources will position Filipino resource professionals for success in the global mining arena.
Edison Domilies Mating is a mining engineer based in Australia. He has worked with major mining companies mostly with Lepanto Consolidated Mining Company in Benguet. He is the owner of Cordillera Gems, a business specializing in high-visibility workwear apparel for the mining industry. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mining Engineering from Saint Louis University (SLU) where he also serves as an industry academic board member. Edison volunteers as a career ambassador for Canada's Mining Industry Human Resources (MiHR) Council.
References:
- Techforce Personnel. October 30, 2022. Australia's Mining Sector Facing Critical Worker Shortage. Retrieved from: https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2022/10/30/2544259/0/en/Australia-s-Mining-Sector-Facing-Critical-Worker-Shortage.html
- UK Mining Education Forum. July 10, 2022. The Mining Sector’s Strategic Need for UK Mining Engineering and Mineral Processing Graduates. Retrieved from: https://irp.cdn-website.com/7bd9b7ac/files/uploaded/220812%20UKMEF%20Report%20on%20Strategic%20Need%20for%20Mining%20Graduates%20corrected%20for%20Deloitte%20%28PDF_4%29.pdf
- The Guardian. ND. Skills shortage could hamper new mining developments in North Queensland, industry says. Retrieved from: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/dec/01/skills-shortage-could-hamper-new-mining-developments-in-north-queensland-industry-
- Taylor, Jon. 12 November 2020. Australian Mining Engineer Skill Shortage 2020. https://www.csgtalent.com/emea/insights/download/australian-mining-engineer-skill-shortage-2020--report--8/
- Ker, Peter. 19 October 2022. Miners hope foreign labour can help as skills shortage hits production. Financial Review. https://www.afr.com/companies/mining/miners-hope-foreign-labour-can-help-as-skills-shortage-hits-production-20221019-p5br1m
- Bavin, Eliza. 08 June 2023. Yahoo Finance.ATO reveals the top 10 highest paid jobs in Australia. https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/ato-reveals-the-top-10-highest-paid-jobs-in-australia-050612973.html
