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"Global Mining Descisions in Your Palms"
“At the core of my being is a love for learning- it is what fuels me.”
Nicole Brook,
President and Chair,
Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM).
Navigating a career in the rugged world of mining when you are a woman demands more than just skill, it demands resilience and unwavering determination. Nicole Brook’s journey from a curious university student to the esteemed President and Chair of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) is a testament to overcoming adversity in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Nicole did not set out dreaming of mines and minerals. After finishing high school without a clear path, she ventured into general engineering at the University of Tasmania, driven by her insatiable thirst for knowledge.
In an interview with an Australian Mining Magazine, she reflects, “At the core of my being is a love for learning- it is what fuels me.” Mining engineering was not just about rocks and rigs for her but it was a gateway to understanding the intricate tapestry of geology, surveying, and environmental science—all woven together in the vast canvas of mining.
Her first taste of real-world mining came at Renison tin mine in Tasmania’s West Coast, where the theoretical became tangible. Graduating opened doors to underground mines in New South Wales and Queensland, where Nicole encountered pivotal moments that shaped her career. The tragic loss of a colleague underscored her commitment to safety and technical excellence, propelling her into roles where she could influence mining’s future.
Furthermore, from the depths of the earth to the heights of corporate boardrooms, Nicole’s career trajectory defies convention. Her roles spanned remote mining outposts to bustling urban hubs, blending technical prowess with strategic acumen. As a Non-Executive Director at Whitehaven Coal and head of AusIMM, she navigates complex landscapes with the same grit and grace. Contrary to popular belief, Nicole said, “mining is not just about machinery in remote places. It is about the passionate individuals driving meaningful change.”
Reflecting on her journey, Nicole cherishes her time at Glencore, where she led transformative initiatives amidst challenges, fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration that remains her proudest achievement.
Yet, the road was not without its obstacles. Nicole candidly shares moments of self-doubt, battling the imposter syndrome that plagues many women in male-dominated fields. “It is not just about overcoming external challenges but also internal ones—believing in oneself when others may not,” she said.
Additionally, from being one of the few women underground to advocating for diversity in boardrooms, Nicole acknowledges progress but emphasizes the journey ahead. Recognized as an exceptional woman in New South Wales Mining and a global inspiration in her field, Nicole remains humble, crediting her success to a supportive network and personal resilience.
Looking ahead, Nicole sees a future where women in mining are not anomalies but leaders, supported by robust infrastructures and exemplary role models. “We need diverse stories to inspire and empower the next wave of innovators”, she urges.
In her quest to amplify women’s voices in mining, Nicole champions inclusive practices and celebrates milestones like job-sharing and promotions during maternity leave. As the mining industry evolves, Nicole Brook stands as a beacon, guiding women towards new horizons and redefining success one groundbreaking story at a time.