Resources Engineering, or engineers, are concerned with resource development involving extracting and processing ores from the earth. Minerals are the basic inputs for the production of metals, pharmaceuticals, and electronic items, as well as a source of fuel, and are used by manufacturing industries and utilities. Mining is therefore essential to our daily lives and also contributes to fulfilling the desires of a modern society.
Mining is at a crossroads. It is no longer acceptable to simply dig up and export minerals without concern for the environment and the surrounding communities. These changes in the industry require a new type of resources engineer.
The Mining Engineering minor at Monash University incorporates automation, environment, and sustainability to produce profitable projects with a minimal environmental footprint. Its theme is to create the mine of the future, and these aspects are integrated throughout the degree.
Demand for this course in Australia or worldwide
Australia, being one of the world’s premier mining destinations, has a consistently high demand for skilled resource professionals. This demand is further amplified by the global push toward achieving climate goals, as many countries set ambitious renewable energy targets.
The transition to clean energy relies on a steady supply of essential raw materials, including copper, steel and concrete, along with critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements, vanadium, and selenium. These materials are vital for manufacturing solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries, which form the backbone of the renewable energy industry.
As nations accelerate their investments in green technologies, the need for highly trained mining and resources professionals will continue to grow in Australia and globally. The sector requires expertise in exploration, extraction, processing, and sustainable resource management to meet increasing demand while adhering to environmental and ethical standards.
With Australia’s strong mining sector and commitment to sustainability, professionals trained in resource disciplines will find abundant opportunities both domestically and internationally. This makes a career in resources engineering, mining, and critical minerals more relevant and promising than ever before.
Countries with high demand for Resources Engineers
Many countries in the world have a growing requirement for highly skilled resource engineers. They include, but are not limited to: Australia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, the African continent, China, and South America.
Educational Pathways and Specialisations
As a resources engineer, students will have a diverse range of potential career paths. These may include:
Evaluating the accessibility and viability of mineral deposit sites for mining in consultation with industry professionals.
Preparing plans for the method of extraction, the safest and most suitable layout and access routes and equipment, and designing tunnels and shafts for the underground. Operations and pits and haulage roads for open-cut operations.
Managing operations of a mining site, including staffing and equipment needs.
Coordinating safety, efficiency, and environmental conditions.
Technically consulting on operating costs and expenditure estimates and reports against budget and production schedules.
Communication, community consultation, and people management are also key elements of the mining profession.
Working in automation. Innovative technology will be a major factor as mines of the future will be increasingly automated for efficiency, economy, and safety.
Challenges and Future Trends in Resources Engineering
The resources sector is undergoing significant transitions, presenting both technical and societal challenges for future resources engineers. Key challenges include:
Declining ore grades. The lower concentrations of valuable minerals mean higher extraction and processing costs.
Complex ore mineralogies. Ores are becoming more chemically and physically complex, requiring advanced separation and processing techniques.
Deeper and more challenging mines. Mining operations are moving to greater depths, increasing safety risks and operational expenses.
Rising extraction and processing costs. Energy-intensive processes make it essential to innovate and optimise extraction and refining methods.
Social license to operate. Gaining acceptance from local communities and stakeholders is crucial, as public scrutiny over mining activities continues to grow.
To address these challenges, future trends in resource engineering will focus on:
Sustainability & ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance. Ethical and responsible mining practices will become standard, ensuring minimal environmental impact and strong community engagement.
Automation and digitalisation. AI, machine learning, and robotics will drive efficiency and safety in mining operations.
Advanced processing technologies. Innovations in mineral processing will improve recovery rates and reduce waste.
Circular economy and resource efficiency. Recycling and reusing materials will play a greater role in resource sustainability.
Community-centric mining. Greater emphasis will be placed on ethical sourcing, fair labour practices, and long-term benefits for local communities.
As the industry evolves, future resources engineers will need to balance technical expertise with social responsibility, innovation, and sustainability to shape the future of mining.
The author is an associate professor at Monash University, Australia.