Online mentor program to benefit women in mining

THE Australian mining industry’s first dedicated virtual mentoring program is expected to benefit women working across the sector nationwide.
Launched on 20 February by the Australian Women in Resources Alliance (AWRA), the e-mentoring program would connect experienced mining, oil and gas professionals with women in earlier phases of their careers.
The program would be delivered by resource industry employer group AMMA, with support from the Australian Government under the National Resource Sector Workforce Strategy. AMMA director of group services Tara Diamond said the first round of e-mentoring partnerships had started, with both men and women mentors providing guidance to women seeking to further their resource careers. “The AWRA e-mentoring program is a key part of AWRA’s wider strategy to increase the participation of women in resource jobs, from the current 15.2 per cent to 25 per cent by 2020,” she said.
“The remote locations and non-traditional work schedules typical of Australia’s diverse resource industry often makes it difficult for career-driven women to connect with experienced industry mentors.”
The program has been supported by the AWRA leadership committee, comprising industry bodies and academics, as well as resource employers, including OZ Minerals, Newcrest Mining and Caltex Australia. “AWRA aims to support 105 mentees and mentors through the program in the first year,” Ms Diamond said.
“The online platform will guide participants through important steps such as goal setting, developing an action plan and problems solving, while communicating online and by telephone.”