Mining students swap their graduation caps to hard hats
CQUniversity’s first cohort of Bachelor of Engineering (Resource Systems) Honours students celebrated the completion of their studies at the Rockhampton graduation ceremony this week.
Rockhampton residents William Sloan and Ronnie Gamier are two new graduates of the pioneering program which specialises in mining engineering.
The comprehensive course addresses the evolving demands of the modern mining landscape and the skill sets that the mining industry now requires from graduate mining engineers, integrating aspects of automation, big data, mechatronics, social responsibility through community and indigenous perspectives, and sustainability,
William praised CQU's innovative approach to mining education which he said has equipped him with a unique skill set to help him succeed in the mining industry.
"I am honoured to be one of the first Resource Systems Engineers to graduate from CQU,” William said.
“Completing this degree has been a huge personal and professional milestone, as I started in the mining industry as an underground operator. Now, I coordinate teams to complete large-scale projects in the underground environment.
“Upskilling with my degree has prepared me for the modern mining environment where automation, big data, and machine learning are revolutionising the industry.”
Having the opportunity to complete his studies whilst living in Central Queensland, William recognised the value in being able to combine his studies with on-the-job training.
“The university's strategic location in the heart of mining operations, such as the Bowen Basin, has provided us with unparalleled opportunities for practical experiences and mine site visits.
“Employers recognise the value of CQU graduates, leading to the unique opportunity to work as an undergraduate mining engineer while completing their final year of studies,” he said.
“Now that I have completed my degree, my career aspiration is to start working toward statutory tickets in the underground coal mining industry.
“My overall goal is to have a role where my decisions have a real and measurable impact on mining operations.”
Fellow graduand Ronnie said he was excited to start his career as a mining engineer and make an impact in the industry.
“For me, this is the first of many milestones that I will accomplish as a mine engineer,” Ronnie said.
“I aspire to gain even more knowledge and progress my skills further throughout my career.
“This means being proficient in addressing problems that may occur in a mine operation, technical areas such as coding and data analysis, and to improve basic engineering skills such as leadership, time management, and performing tasks ethically.”
Ronnie highlighted the diverse learning experiences provided by CQU, allowing interaction with professionals from various fields within the mining industry.
“By studying mining engineering with CQU, it allowed me to work with, and be taught by people that have many years of experience in the mining industry – even if their profession is not specifically as a mine engineer such as being able to work with, and be taught by geologists, geotechnical engineers, and of course, mine engineers.
“This allowed me to gain different perspectives and knowledge about the mining industry, that are important to know as graduates.”
CQUniversity Acting Discipline Leader (mining engineering and geology) Dr Andrew Hammond, congratulated both William and Ronnie, marking their graduation as a significant step forward for the university and the future of mining education.
“As the first CQU Resource Systems Engineers take on their roles in the mining industry, they carry not just degrees but a legacy of innovation and adaptability, setting the stage for a new era in mining education,” Dr Hammond said.
“We are excited to see where their careers take them next.”
