Puru Kumar

Engineer in Training II, Technology and Innovation Department (Base Metal)
Vale

Why a career in mining?

Since I was a kid, I have believed in doing something different. I always had a fascination for technology and when I saw my elder brother find his calling (mechanical engineering), I knew it was time for me to start discovering a field that best represents me, and hopefully is different (from mechanical engineering). I started to read more about the technological advancement happening all around us and it made me realize that everything around us is a form of natural resource that has been harnessed and transformed for our utility, and thus began my fascination for mining – the art of transforming a natural resource into anything useful.

This field was different, unique and provided me with a sense of belonging. So, I chose to pursue Mining Engineering. Through my courses, research opportunities, internships and work experience, I have been introduced to various facades of mining concepts, processes and innovations that have further reinforced my interest in the field. I could relate my life of growing up in India and then moving to Canada to pursue higher education and career in Canada, as a journey of an ore from the mine all the way to its utility.

Why do I love my job?

I am currently working at Vale as an Engineer in Training II in their Technology and Innovation Department.

Benefits to a career in mining:

  • Learn and witness different mining concepts and processes
  • Be introduced and be a part of various technological advancements and innovations in the field of mining to make it safer, more reliable and sustainable
  • Work with mining professionals and teams to learn and develop as a mining engineer
  • Collaborate with other mining corporations to work towards a common goal
  • Contribute to the culture of safety, learning and innovation
  • Travel to different sites and being exposed to various mining operations and processes
  • Create a sense of belonging to the company and the profession
  • Develop both personally and professionally