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Samantha Fowke

from learn to swim teacher to Senior Advisor - Underground Mining Productivity
I apply technical knowledge to solve complex problems and recommend solutions
Industry
Mining and Resources
Company
Rio Tinto
Job Level
Mid

Ask me about

  • What inspired me to pursue a career in mining
  • A challenging project I've worked on and how I overcame obstacles
  • The advancements in technology in the mining industry
  • The balance of economic benefits and environmental impact of mining

About me

  • International Experience

I grew up traveling a lot as my dad was in the aviation industry and I caught the travel bug at a young age. In high school I enjoyed studying Maths and Physics as well as Japanese and German, however had no idea what I would do when I finished. I decided to study engineering as it seemed like it would lead to a career that could not only fund my travel desires but combine my (other) interests in solving problems and working with people. After studying what is referred to as a general first year, it wasn’t until the beginning of second year that I chose Mining Engineering. Mining resonated with me because of the balance in operational and technical roles as well as the variety of job locations and international opportunities.

About my role

  • Analytical
  • Optimistic
  • Personable
  • Resourceful
  • Trusting

An underground mining engineer designs and manages underground mining operations, ensuring efficient mineral extraction. They can oversee the construction and maintenance of mine infrastructure, including ventilation and safety systems where ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards is crucial. They provide technical support and optimise mining processes using specialised software. Effective communication with stakeholders and managing the workforce are also key aspects of their role. As a mining productivity advisor, the role entails providing leadership to improve mining operations in studies, projects, and operations. This includes defining and implementing customised performance measures to track progress, as well as identifying value drivers and full potential for mining assets.

Education

  • High School Certificate
  • Bachelor of Engineering (Mining)/Commerce (Finance)
  • First Class Mine Managers Certificate (Western Australia)
  • Certificate IV Frontline Management

Subjects

  • Chemistry
  • English
  • Languages
  • Mathematical Methods (Maths B)
  • Physics
  • Science

Hobbies

  • Beach adventures
  • Camping
  • Reading
  • Seeing family and friends
  • Travel

Pets

  • 1 Dog

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Studied Engineering at university
  2. Accepted a graduate role site-based in Orange NSW
  3. Transferred to a FIFO role in the Pilbara WA
  4. Commenced Brisbane based corporate role
  5. Working on a project in Mongolia

My typical day

My employer

Rio Tinto operates in 35 countries where its 60,000 employees are working to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs. Rio’s portfolio includes iron ore, copper, aluminium and a range of other minerals and materials needed for people, communities and nations to grow and prosper, and for the world to cut carbon emissions to net zero. Continuously searching for new projects that can support the energy transition, Rio Tinto is currently exploring for 8 commodities in 17 countries. The organisation has more than 150 years of mining and processing experience guiding its work and, today, the business relies on technology such as automation and artificial intelligence to help it run more safely, more efficiently and leave a lighter footprint.