Inspiration for Hunter Valley Students
Thiess recently hosted its inaugural Mining HER Future Forum in Singleton, New South Wales. The event was supported by New South Wales Mining, the Careerlinks Empower HER Program, and the New South Wales Department of Education’s Educational Pathways Program.
Approximately 120 female students from schools across the Hunter Valley attended the forum. They had the opportunity to hear from women in mining and explore various career pathways at Thiess and throughout the broader industry.
Rae O’Brien, Thiess Group Executive – Australia East, remarked, “At Thiess, we’re committed to increasing female participation across our industry by breaking barriers and building long-term successful careers that will shape the future of mining.”
Students connected directly with professionals working in mining today. They listened to real stories from women in the industry, which sparked curiosity and ambition. This experience provided them with the confidence and practical guidance they need to pursue careers in the industry.
Diverse Career Opportunities
After an insightful panel discussion where Thiess employees shared their career stories, students participated in interactive sessions. They rotated among stalls showcasing roles in engineering, geology, finance, marketing, safety, and more.
Thiess Senior Social Performance Advisor Kerrie Howells noted, “Mining has traditionally been male-dominated, and Thiess is committed to empowering more women to be part of the industry, encouraging the next generation to challenge stereotypes and explore diverse career pathways.”
Howells added, “Hopefully, what students once thought mining was – big trucks, dust, and hard hats – has expanded to include opportunities that align with their individual ambitions.”
The Mining HER Future Forum is part of Thiess’s broader commitment to investing in the Hunter Valley region and shaping a more diverse and inclusive future for the mining industry. This initiative also aims to challenge traditional stereotypes and highlight the range of opportunities available.
Thiess plans to make this forum an annual event. This commitment underscores their dedication to supporting young women interested in mining careers and further investing in the community.
Through community initiatives like the forum, Thiess continues to invest in the Hunter Valley, aiming to inspire and empower the next generation of women in mining. The event reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to create an inclusive work environment and promote diversity in the industry.
Last updated: 9 April 2026, 5:49 pm
