Partnership aims to strengthen future mining workforce

Co-written by Bravus Mining and Resources and Isis Symes

A new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CQUniversity and Bravus Mining and Resources is set to boost education, skills and job prospects in Queensland’s mining sector.

Bravus Mining and Resources Chief Operating Officer Mick Crowe said the MoU would enable the Townsville-headquartered miner and the leading regional university to unlock opportunities in engineering and mining for local students and early-career professionals.

“Mining offers a range of fulfilling careers in well paid, highly skilled jobs that make a real and positive difference to workers, their families and our communities,” Mr Crowe said.

“There are different education and training pathways you can take to get into the industry and the 1,200 or so people employed at our Carmichael mine near Clermont are a great example of that.

“We have men and women with PhDs, bachelor’s degrees, trades or VET qualifications working at Carmichael in roles as varied as process engineers, operators, diesel fitters, truck drivers, chefs, hydrologists, ecologists, cultural heritage workers, cleaners and more.

“This MoU with CQUniversity opens new doors and makes it easier for regional Queenslanders to pursue those jobs in mining that require a university qualification.

“That’s exciting for us because it creates more opportunities for locals, and it’ll help build the talent we’ll need to keep Carmichael a sustainable and competitive operation over the next 50 years.”

One of the core undertakings of the MoU is for Bravus Mining and Resources and CQUniversity to equip students in civil, mechanical, electrical, construction and mining engineering with industry-ready skills. This will be achieved through a combination of mentoring, vacation placements, internships and graduate programs designed to bridge the gap between study and employment.

The parties will also collaborate on research projects to drive innovation in mining practices, sustainability and resource management.

CQUniversity Dean of Engineering and Technology Professor Rabin Tuladhar said the partnership was a strong example of industry and education working together to benefit regional Queensland.

“This partnership is not just about developing technical skills - it’s about ensuring our students graduate with the confidence, experience and industry networks they need to thrive,” Prof. Tuladhar said.

“With Bravus’ strong regional presence and our focus on applied, real-world learning, we’re creating a powerful pipeline of local talent that’s job-ready and committed to the sustainable future of the mining sector.

“By collaborating on initiatives like internships, mentoring and research, we’re helping students see firsthand how their studies apply in a practical setting - and how they can contribute to North Queensland’s economy from day one,” he said.

“Our students are already passionate about making a difference. This MoU gives them the hands-on opportunities and support they need to turn that passion into meaningful, long-term careers in civil, mechanical, electrical, construction and mining engineering.”

The Bravus Mining and Resources and CQUniversity MoU will be governed by a joint steering committee and will run for a minimum of three years.

As part of this partnership, two CQUniversity engineering students were provided with a unique opportunity to visit Bravus Mining and Resources Carmichael mine.