8 NOVEMBER 2023IN MYOPINIONThe mining industry, ever-evolving, and dynamic, has seen remarkable changes over the years, driven by technological advancements and the pursuit of more sustainable and efficient operations.My initial steps into the mining industry were grounded in a fascination for mechanical engineering and the use of large-scale equipment on the surface and the complexities underground. As a young engineer, my journey into the industry came through a remote fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) operation in Northern Canada. This experience provided an opportunity to work with and support all areas of the mining operations and logistical activities required to keep the remote camp going. This revealed how each aspect of the mine was intertwined and the technical complexities that each area had. An environment packed with heavy machinery, power generation, water treatment facilities, and logistics unveiled itself, providing an endless opportunity to gain knowledge and grow technically.Underground mining comes with several challenges contributing to the demanding task of achieving production and timelines. A few notable ones for me have been environmental uncertainties, equipment, parts availability, and personnel logistics. However, a notable achievement in my career was leading the introduction of autonomous and semi-autonomous equipment into the underground production process. Collaborating closely with the suppliers and teams on-site, we recognized the potential to improve safety, reduce maintenance costs, and increase production by minimizing delays and human factors. Incorporating this additional technology also enabled continuous operations over crew NAVIGATING THE DEPTHS: PIONEERING TECHNOLOGIES THAT DRIVE EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITYBy Ryan Ewing, Operations and Maintenance Manager, Resolution Copper, Rio TintoRyan Ewing
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