Mentoring is an important aspect of both personal and professional development. Generally,
it refers to a dynamic that involves a more experienced individual offering guidance, advice,
or support to an individual new to the industry or with less experience in the area but it can
also refer to a structure set out to help people navigate the industry. The benefits of
mentoring are numerous, and seeking out this dynamic can be crucial to achieving success
in one's personal and professional life. In this blog, we will explore the importance of
mentoring and where to seek it.
Firstly, mentoring provides an opportunity to learn from someone who has more experience
and knowledge. The mentor's expertise can help the mentee to develop new skills, gain
valuable insights, and acquire the knowledge necessary to achieve their goals. Mentors can
also help the mentee to navigate the complexities unique to our sector and the various
career paths within it, providing guidance and advice along the way.
The structure of every mentoring dynamic is different and it’s important to know what you -
and your mentor - are looking for. In more formal situations such as official mentoring
programs through governmental programs or industry associations might have structured
arrangements like brunches, Q and A sessions, and networking events while less formal
arrangements may take the form of meeting for coffee or lunch.
That is also dependent on what you’re looking for, when you first meet and discuss the
parameters of the dynamic - maybe you’re looking for specific advice, to learn from their
experience, or for a networking conduit who can help you navigate a field you’re new to or
just looking to advance within.
The good news is that there are many resources available to help you find a mentor. Here
are some places to start.
Many professional associations offer mentorship programs. These programs can connect
you with a mentor in your field who can provide guidance and support.
Many employers offer mentoring programs for their employees. These programs can be a
great way to connect with a more experienced colleague who can provide guidance and
support.
Attending industry events and conferences can provide you with opportunities to meet
experienced professionals in the mining industry who can offer mentoring and guidance.
There are many online resources available that can help you find a mentor. LinkedIn is a
great place to start, as you can search for individuals who work in your industry and who
have the experience and knowledge you are looking for.
The Queensland government offers various initiatives and programs that support the
professional development of people in the mining industry.
Queensland Resources Council Mentoring Program/Women in Mining and Resources
Queensland (WIMARQ): specifically for women working in the resources sector in
Queensland, including mining and is designed to support women in the industry.
Mentoring Women in Resources and AusIMM Mentoring: can provide access to experienced
professionals who can offer guidance and support.
Mining Skills Program: This is a government-funded program that provides training and skills
development opportunities for people looking to work in the mining industry.
Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy: This is a program that provides training and
education opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in the mining industry.
Mentoring is an important dynamic that can help individuals to achieve success in their
personal and professional lives. Seeking out a mentor can provide valuable insights,
guidance, and support, and can help to build relationships that can be beneficial for years to
come. There are many resources available to help you find a mentor, so be sure to explore
these options and take advantage of this important dynamic.
13 Mar 2025