What I Do Geological Studies involving resource estimation, reserve verification for base metal, precious metal and industrial mineral projects and mining operations. Some other work that I do is QA/QC of minerals data bases, this involves geostatistics and 3D modeling of ore deposits. IMC works worldwide with about 70% of our clients having projects internationally. Most of my work in done in Tucson, Arizona but sometimes travel is required.
Why Engineering? I chose geological engineering because I wanted a job that would allow me to be outside and be able to travel internationally and domestically. I wanted a career that involved both manual and computer skills.
School Days University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona, Bachelors Degree of Science in Geological Engineering.
My Day At Work My work has varied over the years. Early on I traveled frequently to Indonesia and Mexico to review 3D block models of ore deposits and do assay laboratory audits. Now most of my work is assay data base QA/QC checking. I also do marketing for my company which allows me to attend professional conferences and conventions in the US and Canada.
Best Part I like being able to visit the mine sites to see how the work I do on the computer in my office is actually put into operation.
Proud Moments My biggest accomplishment was being one of the first women to work at the world’s largest copper and gold mine in Indonesia. The work force at the mine at the time was nearly 100% male and Muslim; women are viewed very differently in other cultures. I had to work hard to be respected professionally as a female engineer.
Challenges The biggest challenge was being a female engineer in a male dominated work place. When I was at university there were only 2 women in a graduating class of 20. During some of my first jobs I was not taken seriously and had to prove to the clients that I was technically proficient.
My Family My father is a Civil Engineer (also from the University of Arizona) when he worked in Chile he met my mother who was a school teacher at a remote mine in the Atacama Desert. My sister (also an engineer) and I had the best opportunity of being able to go to school in Chile and in the USA. We would live in Chile for extended periods so that we were able to become truly bi-lingual. When we would return to Arizona we carried our Chilean heritage and Spanish speaking skills with us. I am married and have two children; my daughter is also a graduate of the University of Arizona and my son is studying to be a Geologist at the University of Arizona.
Dreams and Goals My short term goals are to help my company be better recognized on the Internet and on social media. I believe that this is the way future clients and younger engineers will look for mining consultants. Long term goal for me is to train my replacement so I can retire knowing that the young engineers in my company will have the same work ethic as us experienced folks.
Inspiration My parents have been the greatest influence in my life. They told me anything is possible and with education, dedication and hard work. I saw how they were dedicated to each other and how they lived frugally to be able to send their daughters to University.
Want to be an Engineer? I would encourage any young woman to consider not just engineering but any STEM field as a career. The work is hard initially but the rewards are fabulous!
Additional Thoughts My biggest accomplishment was being one of the first women to work at the world’s largest copper and gold mine in Indonesia.
Hobbies I exercise during my lunch hour and was finally able to complete a mini-triathlon with my 2 children. We now do family 5k runs. My favorite book is: 1421, The Year China Discovered America, by Gavin Menzies