Anglo American today marked the growth of skills and competencies across its business with five team members achieving their Deputy certificates this week - including Sarah Coughlan from Grosvenor Mine, who has become the first woman in Queensland to hold a Deputy’s Certificate of Competency.
Congratulations to Sarah Coughlan: The first woman in Queensland to hold a Deputy's Certificate of Competency
In underground coal mining, mine Deputies control activities in one or more explosion risk zones.*
Chief Executive Officer of Anglo American’s Metallurgical Coal business, Tyler Mitchelson, said the company was committed to supporting the next generation of mining industry leaders.
“We’re very proud to have five newly qualified Deputies in our ranks, including Queensland’s first female Deputy, Sarah Coughlan,” Mr Mitchelson said.
“Sarah’s qualification is a significant milestone on the path to improving inclusion and diversity in underground mining, and I extend my sincere congratulations to her. We’re looking forward to seeing more women and men join the Deputy ranks very soon.
“Deputies perform a critical role in our underground mines, and this is part of our program to support the development of coal mining competencies within the business,” he said.
Sarah was first introduced to the mining industry through the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) during her high school years at Nanango State High. From there, she studied Mining Engineering at university and then began work as a Graduate Mining Engineer with Anglo American.
“After starting my career in the mining industry, I knew I wanted to work underground and this program was a natural next step for me,” she said.
“There has been a group of us working towards our Certificate of Competency over the last four years and we’ve all supported each other through the process.
“I’m glad to have had this development opportunity and am really looking forward to taking on additional responsibilities as I build my career in underground mining.
“We are fortunate to work in an amazing industry that can be both rewarding and challenging. Over the last couple of years, I’ve proudly shared my journey with students through QMEA and QRC and will be continuing to support those who are interested in joining the mining industry; having a good network of people around you always helps.”
*A Mine Deputy is a statutory position under the Coal Mining Safety and Health Act 1999 and competencies are issued by the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy’s Board of Examiners.
Anglo American is a leading global mining company, with significant investments within Australia and particularly in Queensland. The company operates five metallurgical coal mines in Queensland’s Bowen Basin, along with additional joint venture interests.
--- Ends ---