That is exactly what NSW Mining is encouraging students to do. Through activations within schools, careers evenings, trade and uni pathway days and their brand new Careers website, students can choose an adventure in mining that suits their interests and skills.
The Adventure Finder Quiz is the first stop to make on the website. All you need to do is answer four questions and it generates a list of careers that could be a great match for you.
When we filled it out, we matched for careers like a Geotechnical Engineer, a Mining Engineer, a Geologist and a People Specialist is apparently worth us considering.
Sharon Bushby, the Policy Manager: Industry Skills and Careers with the NSW Minerals Council is responsible for introducing the mining industry to students and educators, breaking down the misconceptions about the industry and helping students find their way.
“It can be confusing when you’re at a careers expo for instance trying to attract thousands of students’ attention so to get that more direct engagement is what my role is all about; and giving them an idea of what it’s actually like to work in mining.
“It’s not just about digging holes and driving trucks!”
The Career Info Nights are another way the NSW Minerals Council is engaging students and it’s one of their most successful initiatives bringing local mining companies, training schools and universities together for an event.
“They provide a whole package for the students and their parents. It’s not often you get all the professionals in one room at one time and get to ask anything you like.
“You watch the lightbulbs go off when the students are hearing from different graduates and students. That’s when it becomes meaningful and the students get a much better idea of what a mine site looks like,” Sharon said.
Ngaire Baker is a regular at the events as the Manager of External Affairs at Develop’s Woodlawn site and agrees the evenings are incredibly valuable.
“Students get a much clearer understanding that mining isn’t just about operating machinery, it encompasses environmental management, science, engineering, community engagement, trades, technology, and more. Importantly, they also see real people doing these jobs, which helps make those pathways feel achievable.
“Students can ask honest questions in a relaxed environment and start thinking more concretely about subjects, training, and career pathways. For many, it’s the first time they realise there’s a place for their interests within our industry,” she said.
Ngaire said there is one student she remembers fondly who is about to undertake vacation work with Develop in late 2026.
“They were prepared, thoughtful, asked detailed questions about rehabilitation, water management, and sustainability, and were genuinely passionate about how mining can coexist with the environment.
“What stood out wasn’t just their curiosity, but their confidence in engaging with multiple companies throughout the evening. They followed up with questions about university pathways and potential work experience opportunities, which showed real initiative.
“It’s encouraging to see students like that, because it reinforces just how impactful these events can be, they’re not just informative, they can genuinely shape someone’s direction and ambition.”
Sharon said even if the students come to the events or go through the Adventure Finder and discover mining isn’t for them, at least they’ve investigated the option and know it’s not their path.
“If students aren’t interested that’s fine, but they have all the information to make that informed decision.”
