The manufacturing mindset, originating during the Industrial Revolution, has significantly influenced production processes and organisational structures across industries. Key milestones, such as the mechanisation of production and the development of mass production techniques, led to a focus on efficiency, standardisation, and systemisation. This industrial framework has continued to affect sectors like mining, focused on safety, efficiency, and productivity through practices like Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and the Toyota Way.

Despite its historical success, the disconnect between the manufacturing mindset and the evolving mining workforce is becoming evident. As automation, AI, and robotics redefine the industry, achieving streamlined workflows, eliminating defects, and enhancing environmental sustainability remain pivotal.

However, mining must also embrace employee empowerment, diversity, problem-solving, and continuous improvement. This requires behavioural science-driven learning and improved training to address existing gaps between traditional systems and contemporary technological needs in the workforce.

The mining industry over the past decades has seen significant workforce changes, driven by factors such as labour models, increasing automation, and rising industry demands. Yet, challenges remain in adapting education systems to better prepare workers and facilitate career longevity. Modern education theories like andragogy and heutagogy emphasise lifelong learning, self-directed education, and critical thinking, which must be integrated into industry training programs.

The evolution of vocational education and training (VET) in Australia has struggled to keep pace with the need for new skills in mining, particularly in sectors relying on digital transformation.

Traditional training models that focus on standardised, one-size-fits-all approaches have led to the skills gap. To address these challenges, mining companies need to engage in tailored, adaptable training programs, advocate for systemic reforms in education, and incorporate forward-thinking certifications.

Ultimately, leveraging behavioural science-based methodologies will enable better alignment between educational practices and workforce needs. By addressing inherent biases, fostering diverse learning approaches, and adapting training programs to emerging technologies, the mining sector can ensure it builds a capable workforce to meet future demands. for 34 seconds.