With recent statistics revealing that 70 per cent of young Australians would never consider a career in mining, and with enrolments in engineering courses dropping by 63 per cent in the past 10 years, the sector is confronting a critical need to reshape its appeal to future professionals.

Beacon Events’ NextGen program aims to tackle industry challenges head-on by reshaping perceptions and developing attractive career pathways within mining and resources.

In partnership with CoRE Learning Foundation, Australian Earth Science Education, NSW Minerals Council, and the Australian Resources & Energy Employer Association (AREEA) — and supported by sponsors Agnico Eagle, Fortescue, Hatch, Thiess, and WA Mining Club — NextGen offers students as young as 11 the opportunity to attend conferences, explore transformative technology and innovation, and understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in shaping a vibrant, sustainable workforce.

Anita Richards, Chief Operating Officer at Beacon Events, said the NextGen program is allowing the next generation to discover how mining can offer fulfilling career opportunities that make a real difference to society.

“The mining industry is truly one of the most dynamic and impactful sectors out there,” Richards said.

“It combines cutting-edge technology, environmental stewardship, and global influence. There’s nothing quite like seeing young people realise that they can be part of an industry that not only powers the world but also innovates to create a more sustainable future.”

Indeed, one young student was heard to enthuse, “I want to be in mining now!”

Liam Brunton, a representative of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) Student Chapter, said the expectations of the next generation are changing when it comes to the purpose of an organisation and industry.

In a roundtable discussion on the floor of the event, Mr Brunton said today’s students are drawn to dynamic roles that provide skill diversity and a strong sense of purpose, and IMARC provides an opportunity for young people to see the impact they can make firsthand.

“Young people like working in a range of different jobs where they can gain a variety of skills. They want to feel like they’re making a difference and contributing not just to the business but to the broader industry, without being pigeon-holed,” he said.

As part of this shift, the industry is increasingly focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities. Jack Nalty, representing the University of Western Australia’s AusIMM Student Chapter, emphasised the value young people place on companies’ ESG initiatives.

“Seeing mines invest in social and environmental initiatives is really what young people want to see,” he said.

This aligns with findings from Christina Coleman of Indigenous Women in Mining and Resources Australia (IWIMRA), who advocated for First Nations people to take on decision-making roles, particularly in policies around Indigenous participation. Coleman noted, “Companies need to be genuine—not just paying lip service.”

While Beacon Events’ NextGen program and other company initiatives are playing a role in addressing this, Callan Markwick from the Department of State Development at the South Australian Government says this needs to be a shared responsibility across the whole industry.

“Universities are ready to deliver programs that allow students to be paid while they learn. The demand is there for hands-on experience,” he said.

“Pathways like these, coupled with strategic, proactive messaging, are key to changing outdated narratives about mining careers.”

Work-life balance, diversity, and inclusion remain key areas for improvement. Caitlin Gardner-O’Reilly from the University of Sydney noted that the industry’s reputation for prioritising physical and psychological safety is still a barrier.

“Are we creating sites and workplaces that are safe? Do all workers know who their HR adviser is? These elements are critical for both attraction and retention,” she said, calling for an industry-wide push towards the prioritisation of employee well-being.

NextGen’s multi-faceted approach is built not only to showcase the sector’s stability but to transform it into a modern, forward-thinking industry.

Charlie Seymour of Newmont pointed out that diverse workforces improve professional development, productivity, and long-term retention.

“Diversity broadens your knowledge and encourages more people to join,” Seymour said.

On day three of the conference, Years 5 and 6 students explored IMARC, participating in hands-on STEM activities and learning about the technologies and innovations driving modern mining.

These young attendees engaged with industry professionals and discovered how fields like engineering, environmental science, and digital technology can lead to exciting and meaningful careers.

By immersing students in real-world applications of STEM, the program aims to spark early interest and help the next generation see mining as a forward-thinking, impactful career option.

And by reshaping its value propositions and modernising pathways for young professionals, IMARC’s NextGen program is committed to forging a sustainable and attractive future for mining.

For more information, please visit the IMARC Website.

About IMARC: Collaborating on trends in mining, investment and innovation towards a sustainable future

IMARC is the premier gathering for the most influential minds in the mining industry, a dynamic hub where ideas ignite, and inspiration flows – it is the ultimate meeting ground for global industry leaders. As Australia’s largest and most significant mining event, IMARC attracts over 9,000 decision-makers, industry leaders, policymakers, investors, commodity buyers, technical experts, innovators, and educators from more than 120 countries. For three action-packed days, attendees will engage in cutting-edge learning, forge valuable deals, and experience unparalleled networking opportunities.