#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:

• Alexia Carver (University of Nevada Reno) – Metallurgical engineer student and student outreach advocate

• Liz Diaz (Hecla Nevada) – HR leader driving grassroots education and skilled trade pipelines

• Don Dwyer (Orla Mining Ltd.) – GM dedicated to leadership, development, and operational culture

• Nikita Grover (Kinross Nevada) – HR strategist redefining mining’s brand and workforce engagement

• Linda Honey (Protected at Work) – Training and policy expert specializing in workplace safety, compliance, and psychological well-being

• 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: 

Liebherr Mining

JSR Fleet Performance

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