MCA: building mining’s next generation

The Minerals Council of Australia has concluded its inaugural Minerals Industry Experience (MiEX) Program, designed to provide hands-on exposure to the minerals industry through a two-week immersive experience. 

This innovative program has set a new benchmark in addressing the critical STEM talent shortage in Australia’s minerals industry by offering immersive, paid experiences to first-year university students.  

In the first week of the program, students engaged in interactive sessions on mining fundamentals, sustainability, innovation, processing and water and tailings closure management, followed by three days of on-site experiences at leading mining operations. The final two days featured reflection activities and networking events to support future career development.  

Participants had the chance to meet industry professionals, hear career stories and explore pathways in high-demand fields like Geoscience, Mining Engineering and Environmental Sciences.  

Addressing a critical need for skilled talent in the minerals sector, the program engaged “mining-curious” STEM students early in their academic journey, showcasing the dynamic opportunities available in these fields. 

Over 500 students applied for the program, reflecting significant unmet demand and interest in mining careers. With a cohort of 70 participants across hubs in WA, Queensland and South Australia, the program achieved an impressive female participation rate of over 60%.  

Delivered through strategic partnerships with major mining companies — BHP (ASX: BHP), Peabody Energy and Rio Tinto (ASX: RIO) — as well as education and technology partners AusIMM and Cahoot, MiEX combined classroom learning with real-world application. Recruitment targeted universities including Curtin University, the University of Western Australia, the University of Queensland, Central Queensland University, and the University of Adelaide, resulting in the establishment of three hubs in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide.  

The MiEX Program exemplifies the industry’s commitment to building a resilient and diverse workforce for the minerals industry. By combining practical experience with cutting-edge education, MiEX hopes to bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that Australia’s minerals sector remains at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.