What are some of the best practices or standards for mining engineering continuing education and development?

1 Professional associations

One of the most effective ways to stay current and connected in mining engineering is to join and participate in professional associations. These are organizations that represent and support the interests, standards, and ethics of mining engineers and related disciplines. Some of the most prominent and reputable associations are the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration (SME), the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum (CIM), the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM), and the Institute of Materials, Minerals, and Mining (IOM3). By becoming a member of these associations, you can access a range of benefits, such as networking opportunities, publications, events, training, certification, advocacy, and recognition.

2 Online courses

Another convenient and flexible way to enhance your mining engineering skills and knowledge is to enroll in online courses. These are courses that are delivered through digital platforms, such as websites, apps, or videos, and can be accessed anytime and anywhere. Online courses can cover a variety of topics and levels, from introductory to advanced, and from general to specialized. Some examples of online courses for mining engineering are Mining Engineering Certificate Program by Edumine, Mining Engineering MSc by University of Exeter, and Mining Engineering Professional Development Program by Colorado School of Mines. Online courses can help you gain new insights, update your qualifications, and demonstrate your commitment to learning.

3 Webinars and podcasts

A third option for mining engineering continuing education and development is to watch webinars and listen to podcasts. These are online presentations and discussions that feature experts, practitioners, and leaders in the field of mining engineering and related topics. Webinars and podcasts can provide you with valuable information, insights, and perspectives on current and emerging issues, challenges, and opportunities in the industry. They can also help you learn from the best practices and experiences of others, and interact with peers and mentors. Some examples of webinars and podcasts for mining engineering are SME Webinar Series, CIM Academy Webinars, and Mining Technology Partners Podcast.

4 Conferences and workshops

A fourth way to advance your mining engineering career and knowledge is to attend conferences and workshops. These are face-to-face or virtual events that bring together mining engineers and other professionals from different sectors, regions, and backgrounds. Conferences and workshops can offer you a chance to learn from the latest research, innovations, and case studies in the field of mining engineering and related areas. They can also provide you with opportunities to network, collaborate, and exchange ideas with other participants, speakers, and exhibitors. Some examples of conferences and workshops for mining engineering are SME Annual Conference & Expo, CIM Convention, AusIMM Conference Series, and IOM3 Events.

5 Mentoring and coaching

A fifth and final way to improve your mining engineering skills and performance is to seek mentoring and coaching. These are forms of professional development that involve a relationship between a mentor or coach and a mentee or coachee, who are usually in the same or similar field of work. Mentoring and coaching can help you gain feedback, guidance, support, and advice from someone who has more experience, knowledge, or expertise than you. They can also help you develop your confidence, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Some examples of mentoring and coaching programs for mining engineering are SME Mentor Program, CIM Mentorship Program, AusIMM Mentoring Program, and IOM3 Mentoring Scheme.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?