Session 3A | Complexity in Mining Operations & Commercialisation
Track 1
Wednesday, September 3, 2025 |
2:20 PM - 3:45 PM |
Argyle Ballroom, Parmelia Hilton Perth |
Speaker
Jake Thornton
Director - Consulting (Operations Advisory)
KPMG Australia
Career Journey - Jake Thornton
2:20 PM - 3:05 PMBiography
Jake has over 15 years’ experience in the resources industry across corporate, operational, maintenance, consulting and project management roles within leading Australian mining producer and supplier companies and professional service .
Whilst at KPMG, Jake has worked with major mining companies across multiple commodities, both locally, nationally and globally. Jake has assisted these companies in realising their goals of mining autonomy, operational excellence, planning best practice and future vision of data and digital.
Prior to KPMG, Jake worked as a Mechatronics Engineer for Rio Tinto in their Remote Operations Centre where he was involved in both operational and optimisation roles, interfacing with their autonomous and manned fleet, fixed plant assets, rail and port facilities. Jake also worked with Monadelphous involved in all aspects of on-site project management and productivity/process improvement and was heavily involved in the shut down / maintenance space in a process and systems improvement capacity.
Mr Tom McAuley
Student
CODES
Ms Dana Gillies
Graduate Engineer
pitt&sherry
Mr Jhonnatan Gonzales
Student of the Master of Professional Engineering (Mining Engineering)
Curtin University
Operational and environmental optimization in surface mining through IoT and artificial intelligence
3:25 PM - 3:35 PMBiography
I am a postgraduate mining engineering student with over five years of FIFO experience in large-scale operations, focused on autonomous drilling, blasting, mine planning, and data-driven optimization. Skilled in applying technology, safety, and continuous improvement principles in diverse mining environments. Currently based in regional Australia and pursuing a master’s degree, I am motivated to contribute my technical skills and collaborative mindset to challenging site-based projects while continuing my professional development.
Mr Nilmer Quispe Chavarri
Student
Curtin University
Next generation of geotechnical risk management: Unlocking the power of virtual and augmented reality in mining operations
3:35 PM - 3:45 PMBiography
Hi, my name is Nilmer Quispe Chavarri. I’m originally from Peru and I’m now based in Kalgoorlie, completing a Master of Mining Engineering at Curtin University. My background is in geotechnical engineering, with more than eight years of experience working in open-pit mines, focusing on slope design, monitoring, and risk management.
What really excites me is the role of technology and innovation in transforming the mining industry, from digital mapping to VR/AR applications for safety and efficiency. I’m eager to connect with professionals who share the vision of making mining safer and more sustainable.
Outside of work, I enjoy swimming and exploring new places, it helps me stay balanced and recharged.
