#189- Workforce Development Panel Discussion
The mining industry stands at a crossroads. With a rapidly aging workforce, persistent misconceptions, and the growing demand for innovation, the need to reshape how we attract, develop, and retain talent has never been more urgent.
In this powerful panel edition of the Mining Minds Podcast, we bring together six influential leaders from across the industry to engage in an honest, forward-thinking discussion on the future of workforce development in mining.
Featuring:
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Alexia Carver (University of Nevada Reno) – Metallurgical engineer student and student outreach advocate
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Liz Diaz (Hecla Nevada) – HR leader driving grassroots education and skilled trade pipelines
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Don Dwyer (Orla Mining Ltd.) – GM dedicated to leadership, development, and operational culture
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Nikita Grover (Kinross Nevada) – HR strategist redefining mining’s brand and workforce engagement
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Linda Honey (Protected at Work) – Training and policy expert specializing in workplace safety, compliance, and psychological well-being
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Victor Ortiz (i80 Gold Corp) – Safety director with firsthand knowledge of ground-up growth
Together, the panel explores how to redefine mining careers for the next generation, what meaningful development truly look like on site, why the industry must embrace storytelling and digital presence, and how to build workplace cultures that grow people—not just fill roles.
Episode Sponsors:
Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals
Episode Chapters:
0:00 Introduction & Panel Overview
9:06 Challenges from the HR Lens
11:48 Younger Perspectives
18:53 Messaging and Industry Branding
22:51 Measuring Success
27:43 Tech Adoption & Employee Buy-In
31:53 From Haul Trucks to Leadership
40:17 Sparking Youth Interest
43:36 Outbound Community Engagement
49:18 Reaching All Ages with the Right Message
53:03 Innovation & Speaking Up
55:31 Prioritizing Mental Wellness
1:02:49 Upskilling Through Experience
1:10:59 Open Questions – Barriers & Bold Moves
