At PDAC, one message stood out clearly: women are playing an increasingly influential role in the global mining industry.

From technology and artificial intelligence to sustainability and exploration policy, the perspectives shared by women at PDAC highlighted how the industry is evolving toward a more innovative, inclusive, and forward-looking future.

Technology Is Driving the Next Phase of Mining

According to Emma Migneault, the mining industry is entering a new era of connectivity. New wireless technologies, such as G7 devices, are designed to take operational data connectivity to the next level.

These systems incorporate years of feedback from users and customers, allowing companies to deploy monitoring technology across a wide range of mining applications more easily than before. As mining operations become more data-driven, strong wireless connectivity and reliable data processing will be essential for ensuring that companies can manage their operations efficiently.

Artificial Intelligence Is Improving Safety in Mining

For Lisa Thiess, the combination of mining and artificial intelligence is already producing measurable improvements in safety.

Automation technologies, particularly automated trucks and fleet systems, are helping reduce fatal accidents across mining operations. These innovations increase safety awareness and reduce risks in environments that were historically more dangerous.

As AI technologies continue to evolve, they are expected to further support women working in mining by creating safer working conditions and expanding opportunities for participation across the industry.

Increasing Representation of Women in Mining

Kate Milberg emphasized that, although the number of women in mining has grown significantly over the decades, their representation remains relatively low.

In the United States, women currently make up roughly 8 percent to 17 percent of the workforce in mining, with global numbers often slightly lower.

Organizations such as Women in Mining are working to change that reality through several initiatives:

• Educational programs and mentorship
• Professional networking opportunities
• Access to properly designed personal protective equipment
• Training programs that support women entering the industry

Another important message is that mining careers extend far beyond engineering. The industry also requires professionals in business, marketing, law, policy, communications, and many other fields.

Saudi Arabia’s Rising Role in Global Mining

Rumyana Davidson highlighted Saudi Arabia’s rapid transformation into an emerging global mining destination.

One of the most important developments has been the digitization of geological data, which represents a crucial step toward improving transparency and attracting investors.

However, she also noted that lowering entry barriers for junior mining companies could significantly boost exploration activity. In many mining jurisdictions, such as Canada and Australia, junior companies play a vital role in early-stage discoveries before larger companies move in to develop projects.

Sustainability and ESG Leadership

From a sustainability perspective, Kirsten Kettlesen explained that women are increasingly taking leadership roles across many areas of mining operations.

Over the past decade, environmental responsibility has become a central part of mining strategy, particularly in areas such as:

• Low-carbon operations
• Water recycling and reuse
• Freshwater stewardship

Mining companies are also adopting technologies such as drones and automated systems to collect data, improve monitoring, and support operational efficiency. At the same time, organizations remain careful to protect intellectual property and sensitive data when using artificial intelligence tools.

Conclusion

The conversations at PDAC demonstrate that the future of mining is being shaped by a combination of technological innovation, sustainability priorities, and increased diversity within the workforce.

Women are becoming key contributors across exploration, technology, policy, and sustainability, helping drive a more resilient and forward-looking mining sector.