The future looks bright for Masters graduate Nirmala Divya after she completes Austmine’s Accelerating Women in METS Internship Program.
Key facts
- Nirmala Divya has successfully completed an internship at Molycop Waratah through Austmine's Accelerating Women in METS Internship Program.
- The program providing her with valuable hands-on experience in metallurgical testing and quality control, while also expanding her professional network.
- Divya says she hopes to promote diversity and inclusion in the METS sector, and aims to inspire other women to pursue careers in mining.
Divya says the experience of working at Molycop has been an incredibly enriching one. “I have been working as a Metallurgical Laboratory Engineer, gaining hands-on experience with different testing methodologies such as AI (Abrasion Index) and BWI (Bond Work Index) tests, which are critical in evaluating grinding media performance,” she says.
“I also had the opportunity to be part of the BMAT project, which was an exciting learning experience.”
Hands-on experience and growth
Divya holds a Master of Mining Engineering from the University of Wollongong and a Bachelor of Technology in Mining Engineering from India. Divya was introduced to Molycop through Austmine’s initiative, which aims to promote and support women in the Mining Equipment, Technology, and Services (METS) sector. “I came to know about Molycop through Austmine’s Accelerating Women in METS Internship Program, which supports and promotes women in the METS sector,” Divya explains. “Through this program, I was able to secure an interview with Molycop, and after successfully completing it, I was offered the internship.”
She explains that she has high hopes for a successful career in the mining sector now the program has come to an end.
“I’m looking forward to starting my career in the mining industry and growing into a responsible and skilled professional. I aim to gain hands-on experience in various aspects of mining, including drill and blast operations, mine planning, and safety management. Over time, I aspire to take on leadership roles where I can contribute to efficiency, innovation, and sustainable practices in mining.”
In addition, she says she is strongly motivated to set a positive example for young girls and women who are interested in mining and to encourage them to explore careers in the sector.
Championing diversity and inclusion
Divya is quick to acknowledge the impact the program has had on her skills and experience. “The Austmine Accelerating Women in METS Internship Program has been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory,” she explains.
“The experience has provided me with invaluable insights into how high-quality grinding media and innovative solutions enhance operational efficiency in the mining industry. One of the most valuable takeaways from this experience has been improving my ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with a team."
As for creating opportunities for other women to follow in her footsteps, Divya is committed to seeing women’s representation in mining improve. “I believe that having a diverse workforce, where people from different backgrounds bring in unique perspectives, leads to better problem-solving and industry growth,” she says. “I hope to inspire and support more women to join the mining sector.”
