Sandvik Report Highlights Opportunity in Mining Talent Shortage

The mining industry is facing a shortage of engineering talent. A new report by Sandvik suggests this challenge could transform into an opportunity. The report, "The future of mining talent: What STEM graduates really think, and what the industry can do about it," indicates low awareness of mining among young engineers. Still, many are open to joining the sector when aware of its modern role in global energy transition.

The survey involving 824 STEM students globally shows that nearly 40% are unfamiliar with mining. However, over 90% are likely to consider a mining career if it addresses climate change significantly. Sandvik's CEO, Stefan Widing, sees this as an untapped opportunity as the industry today involves digitalization and electrification.

While high salaries and advanced technologies attract graduates, safety and environmental perceptions deter them. As the US mining workforce nears retirement and engineering enrollments fall, the report advocates for collaboration among companies, academia, and policymakers to rejuvenate the talent pipeline.