Unearth an exciting career in Minerals and Energy

As an industry to launch your career, Minerals and Energy ticks plenty of boxes. The sector is crucial for the state’s economy. It generates billions of dollars in export earnings. It also creates tens of thousands of jobs – and it’s predicted to grow in the coming decades. In this article, we’ll explore the Minerals and Energy sector. We’ll look at its economic significance, job prospects, educational pathways and specialist training. Plus, we’ll look at the role of the Tasmanian Minerals and Energy Council to support the workforce now and into the future.

What is the Minerals and Energy sector?

Tasmania’s Minerals and Energy sector is the envy of the world. From a mining perspective, there’s the extraction and production of natural resources. This includes metals such as nickel, tungsten, copper, gold, lead, iron, silver, tin and zinc. Then there are the traditional energy sources like coal and gas that remain in high demand. At the same time, Tasmania has a proud history in renewable energy. For example, around 80% of the state’s electricity comes from hydroelectric power. (ie, flowing water). Then there are emerging wind and solar projects – it’s all happening in Tasmania.

Thousands of jobs, billions of export dollars

The sector is a significant driver of economic growth in Tasmania. It contributes substantially to the state’s GDP. (GDP by the way stands for Gross Domestic Product. It’s a measure of the total value of goods and services produced in the state). The sector generates billions of export dollars every year. Better still, it also employs tens of thousands of Tasmanians. Make no mistake, there are heaps of jobs out there, which we’ll come to in a moment.

Here are some key aspects of how the sector stimulates the economy:

Job Creation

Thousands of Tasmanians work in the sector, with numbers expected to grow. It offers a range of jobs from entry-level to highly skilled roles. This employment supports individuals and families across the state, boosting local economies and contributing to Tasmania’s overall prosperity.

Export Revenue

Tasmania’s mineral and energy exports generate significant revenue, funding essential public services like hospitals, schools, and social housing. This income also supports infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, etc, ensuring the state’s growth and well-being.

Investment Opportunities

Tasmania’s impressive mineral deposits and renewable energy credentials attract both local and international investors. This interest fosters the development of new projects and technologies, benefiting the state by driving innovation and economic growth.

Community Development

Many mining companies in Tasmania engage in community development projects, supporting local schools, health services, and sports clubs. These initiatives enhance the quality of life in Tasmania, fostering stronger communities and contributing to the state’s overall well-being.

Tasmania is by far Australia’s leading renewable energy state

Tasmania is at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution. Through endurance and innovation, our state has built a renewable energy scheme that’s the envy of the world. But there’s even more to come. With a commitment to sustainability, the state is investing in wind, solar and hydroelectric projects. This shift helps to combat climate change. It also creates all sorts of new job opportunities in the renewable sector.

A snapshot of career opportunities in renewable energy

Pursuing a career in renewable energy is more than a job. It can be a rewarding career path that allows you to contribute to a sustainable future. As Tasmania expands its renewable energy capabilities, new roles are emerging.

A snapshot of career opportunities in minerals

The minerals sector offers a wide range of job opportunities. Many jobs are outdoors in some of the most spectacular regions of the state. We’ve only scratched the surface of the jobs you’ll find in this sector. But just remember, you’ll need to gain skills and qualifications.

Education and Training Pathways

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

VET programs in Tasmania offer practical training. This training prepares students for immediate employment in the Minerals and Energy sector.

TasTAFE, one of the primary VET providers in the state, offers courses such as the Certificate II in Resources and Infrastructure Work Preparation, which is ideal for those looking to enter the mining industry. Another option is the Diploma of Engineering. The course prepares students for technical roles in the industry. It covers engineering design, project management, and problem-solving skills. The Diploma provides a solid foundation for anyone looking to advance their career.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships

In Tasmania, apprenticeships and traineeships are vital for building a skilled construction workforce. Apprenticeships last three to four years and cover trades like carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. Traineeships are shorter, typically one to two years, and focus on roles that may not require a full apprenticeship, such as project management.

Australian School-based Apprenticeship

An Australian School based Apprenticeship (ASbA) is an apprenticeship or traineeship that you do while still at school. So, if you’re in Year 10, 11 or 12 you could combine school, employment and training in an industry of your choice.

University Degrees

For certain jobs in the minerals and energy sector, you’ll need to go to University. The good news is the University of Tasmania offers several relevant degree programs. These are available full-time or part-time.

The Bachelor of Engineering (Specialisation) with Honours offers specialisations like Electrical Power and Civil Engineering. Electrical Power focuses on power systems and renewable energy. Civil Engineering covers sustainable infrastructure and environmental engineering. These programs prepare students to address challenges in energy and infrastructure, leading to impactful careers.

The Bachelor of Engineering Technology teaches students about renewable energy through courses on solar, wind, and hydro power. It includes hands-on projects, industry internships, and research opportunities. The program emphasises sustainable engineering, preparing students to design eco-friendly energy solutions and contribute to a sustainable future..

Another option is the Bachelor of Science which provides a variety of majors to focus on. For further specialisation, the university offers postgraduate degrees. This includes the Master of Professional Engineering (Specialisation) the Master of Economic Geology and the Master of Environmental Studies for those who prefer a research focussed degree.

Specialist Training

Specialist training is essential for many roles in the minerals and energy industry. Lots of training programs include hands-on experience. This allows you to gain valuable skills that employers seek. This can include

So many jobs, so many opportunities (and it’s only going to grow)

The Minerals and Energy industry offers exciting opportunities for school leavers. And guess what? It’s only going to grow. The TMEC has forecast that the sector will need an additional 20,000 workers by 2040. So let’s recap the strengths of the sector; strong economic impact. Diverse job roles. A focus on sustainability. It ticks so many boxes, which is why it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a rewarding career.

Do some digging today for success in this dynamic field tomorrow.

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