I enjoyed problem-solving and math and science-based subjects at school. Engineering is an opportunity to pursue these subjects.”

Kieren studied petroleum engineering at university but chose to move into mining because he believed in building a greener future instead of remaining dependent on a destructive resource like petroleum.

At KOTH, Kieren has completed an office-based drill & blast stint and is now learning planning, which will help him understand the mining cycle and develop as a site engineer.

I enjoy the design process and the blend of engineering principles and practical methods. Drill & blast also impacts downstream processes, which I find interesting.”

Kieren is a big fan of the variety in his role. “New opportunities and challenges are continuously arising,” Kieren says. “I also get to experience site-based engineering and office-based support.”

As a graduate engineer, learning is fundamental to becoming a fully-fledged engineer, so you want to take on as many opportunities as possible. For example, Kieren is currently involved with the KOTH Emergency Response Team (ERT) to understand mine site emergency methodology better. He’s also finding mentorship and guidance in his team.

In Kieren’s first role at Mt Morgans, Mining Engineer Maryam Abedinpour taught Kieren office-based drill & blast and helped him take what he had learnt into a more formalised process for designing shots. As a qualified mining engineer, Maryam’s role at Macmahon includes not only providing mine plans and drill blast designs but also working closely with graduate mining engineers like Kieren.

Maryam has found it rewarding to watch Kieren grow in knowledge and experience over the past year.

Since starting his grad program, Kieren has come a long way, acquiring several precious skillsets to succeed in the mining engineer role,” says Maryam.

“He now spends most of his day fulfilling and specialising successfully in a wide range of engineering tasks, including mine planning and drill and blast design.”

AT KOTH, Kieren is also impressed with the team’s willingness to help.

“People across multiple departments are happy to help me learn from their different skill sets and apply it to my job”, says Kieren.

“I work with Hadi and Murry a lot, both of which are happy to mentor me and help me make better choices and deliver better results,” says Kieren.

When asked what advice he would give mining students, Kieren said:

Make sure you study an area you are passionate about, one you will enjoy studying. However, engineering is about problem-solving, so you can change pathways if you want to.”

Thanks for chatting with us, Kieren! Great to have you on board.