Â鶹ֱ²¥ and The University of Queensland (UQ) have developed a new Professional Certificate Program that will increase understanding of the modern mining industry in Australia and open pathways to postgraduate study for people currently working within the industry.<\/p>\n
The Foundations of Modern Mining Program is sponsored by the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) and consists of six courses available globally via the edX platform.<\/p>\n
Associate Professor Chris Rawson, Dean of Learning and Teaching for Curtin\u2019s Faculty of Science and Engineering, said the new Program will help learners up-skill within their current industry role and improve their understanding of the minerals and mining sector.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe mining industry within Australia is constantly evolving and it is important to keep track of emerging technologies and modern techniques that are being used by mining companies and affiliated professions,\u201d Associate Professor Rawson said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis new program will give participants a better understanding of key aspects of modern mining including the business of mining, mining operations, the digital transformation of mining, sustainability, leadership and diversity, and health, safety and wellness\u201d<\/p>\n
SMI\u2019s Director Professor Neville Plint said he was delighted SMI was partnering with Â鶹ֱ²¥ on this important initiative, taking advantage of the complementary expertise across the two institutions.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe education landscape is changing rapidly, and this new Professional Certificate is an excellent example of a more flexible approach,\u201d Professor Plint said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt provides pathways to allow people to upskill to meet new demands for the mining workforce in a rapidly changing context.\u201d<\/p>\n
MCA\u2019s Chief Executive Officer, Tania Constable, said providing flexible, high quality education and training is crucial to building the minerals workforce of the future.<\/p>\n
\u201cSupport for this certificate course is part of a long-term substantial investment by MCA member companies to ensure the quality supply of Australian graduates for the mining industry,\u201d Ms Constable said.<\/p>\n
\u201cEffective, collaborative partnerships across industry, universities, government and the community are essential to reinvigorate learning pathways, student experiences and outcomes to attract and engage diverse talent.\u201d<\/p>\n
Senior staff from Â鶹ֱ²¥\u2019s Western Australian School of Mines (WASM) and UQ\u2019s Sustainable Minerals Institute and the School of Business will teach the six courses within the program.<\/p>\n
Completion of the Professional Certificate will provide an entry pathway into Postgraduate Certificate courses at both universities.<\/p>\n