Personal & Career Background

What first sparked your interest in the mining industry?
My journey into the mining industry began with a Bachelor of Science in Geology and a keen interest in rocks, minerals, and how the earth works. That interest eventually led me to complete an Honours degree focused on structural geology and mineralisation styles. I was fortunate to begin my career in the gold sector with roles that took me from underground to open-pit operations, and eventually to resource geology.

Joining Snowden Optiro gave me the opportunity to specialise further, working with an experienced team and a variety of clients and projects. It’s a place where I can continue learning while helping others develop and apply best practices.

Was there a defining moment that confirmed mining was the right industry for you?
Absolutely—when I completed my first resource model and saw it directly influence mine planning and development decisions, it really struck me how important and impactful our work is. That feeling has stuck with me ever since.

How would you explain your role to someone unfamiliar with the mining tech space?
In simple terms, I help mining companies figure out how much valuable material they have underground and how confident they can be in that estimate. This helps them make informed decisions about investing in and developing their projects.

What has been the most challenging project or client engagement you’ve worked on?
Every project has its complexities, but one that stands out involved tight deadlines, limited data, and a high level of scrutiny. It was a resource model that needed to be completed and signed off for public reporting within a very short timeframe. Navigating the pressure while maintaining quality was challenging but also rewarding.

What’s a professional milestone or achievement you’re especially proud of?
Being part of the team that built and implemented a QAQC system from the ground up for a major gold producer stands out. It significantly improved data quality and consistency across operations and had a measurable impact on their confidence in resource models.

What’s been your biggest learning curve while working in the mining industry?
Transitioning from operational geology to consultancy was a learning curve in itself. You go from being very site-focused to working across multiple projects, commodities, and clients. It requires adaptability, strong communication skills, and a broader technical understanding.

How has the mining industry evolved since you started—and how have you adapted?
The increasing emphasis on data integrity, transparency, and ESG has been a big shift. There’s also more integration of advanced software and statistical techniques. I’ve adapted by continually updating my skills, staying involved in professional networks, and embracing ongoing learning.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in this field?
Get as much hands-on experience as you can—go to site, log core, visit drill rigs. Ask lots of questions and find mentors. And don’t be afraid of the numbers! Understanding data is key to being a great geologist.

What keeps you motivated and passionate about your work?
The variety of projects and the opportunity to make a real impact. I also love working with people—whether it’s clients, colleagues, or mentees—and seeing them succeed.

If you weren’t in mining, what career could you see yourself in?
Probably something in environmental science or education. I enjoy teaching and working with data, so a role that combines those would be a good fit.

What’s one myth about mining you’d love to bust?
That it’s all about digging holes and damaging the environment. Modern mining is highly technical, tightly regulated, and focused on sustainability. There’s a lot of science and care that goes into how we explore and extract resources.

What excites you most about the future of mining and technology?
The advancements in automation, machine learning, and real-time data analysis are incredibly exciting. These tools are changing how we model resources and make decisions—leading to safer, more efficient, and more sustainable operations.

Quote Highlight

“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” — Albert Einstein

Fun Facts

• I’ve only worked for three companies in my career.
• I have three kids who I love dearly—but they do test my patience!
• My go-to coffee order is a flat white, always.