Innovating a world-first iron ore technology

"I’ve always wanted to be challenged in what I do – I can’t stand still.

However recently, life got a little hectic. All at once I was planning my wedding, studying for my MBA, leading Labrador City’s Processing Growth and Innovation team, and testing my skills to become a Rio Expert. But navigating through layers of complexity is what I do best, and it’s what helps me excel in my work.

More than a decade of experience in mineral processing, particularly in iron ore beneficiation, led to my successful qualification as a Rio Expert. My expertise spans process optimisation, operational leadership, innovative technology development, and driving strategic growth initiatives. I’m committed to setting the standard in my field and leading by example.

I’ve consistently been supported to be curious and courageous in my work. Just because we’ve always done something a certain way doesn’t mean there isn’t a better way. And I put that into practice at IOC, where the operations began 70 years ago.

With the benefit of advances in technology, I wanted to find a way to enhance efficiency and boost production. We thoroughly researched existing processes to solve a decades-old issue in iron ore beneficiation.

I led the adaptation of a new technology that significantly improves beneficiation by recovering more fine iron ore particles than the traditional gravity separation process. We developed and optimised the flowsheet and operational conditions to maximise fine iron ore recovery.

The success of the technology’s integration into our iron ore extraction process was unprecedented. Initial results showed a significant increase in production, yielding substantial environmental and economic benefits. Moving forward, we have a patent pending for the technology in 6 global regions, and we’ll explore further potential applications across the industry.

We have so many opportunities to drive positive change – to push our boundaries and see just what we’re capable of achieving. Both my professional and personal growth have benefited from that mindset. Working at IOC provides me with so much more than just a job.

Everyone has it in them, and is capable of so much more than they think. And you don’t need a formal role in innovation, change or transformation to make an impact.

When I started my career, I never imagined I would have the opportunity to advance the industry toward greater efficiency and sustainability. However, by fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and proactive problem solving, we can achieve remarkable advancements and build a more sustainable and successful future.

I’ll continue to challenge the status quo and help leverage our collective expertise across Rio Tinto’s global operations – our best opportunity to tackle the complex challenges that exist within the mining sector.

In any role, real change begins with asking, ‘is there a better way?’, whether it’s in ordering supplies, connecting with colleagues, or any other task. I encourage everyone I work with to adopt this same mindset. How can we find better ways?”