MineWarp

Mining companies have never had more operational data — yet many mines still struggle with fragmented systems, reactive decision-making, and limited real-time visibility.In this episode of MineWarp, I speak with Jason van der Watt, CEO and Co-Founder of AVA Solutions about the evolution of Fleet Management Systems (FMS), operational intelligence, and what modern mining operations actually need from digital technology.We explore:Why many FMS deployments fail to deliver operational valueThe difference between enterprise-scale and mid-tier / contract mining requirementsHow smaller mines can now access advanced operational intelligenceThe shift from siloed data toward integrated operational visibilityWhy operational adoption matters more than software featuresThe future of real-time mine optimisationThis conversation goes beyond software and dashboards — into the operational realities of modern mining and what it truly means to become data-driven.

Digital mining transformation starts with connectivity—and few understand this better than Dr. Jeannette McGill.From LTE networks in mines to summiting Mount Everest, this is a story of technology, leadership, and resilience.Jeannette’s career spans underground gold mines in South Africa, digital transformation roles in global mining companies, and the deployment of LTE networks enabling autonomous mining operations.In this conversation we explore:Why connectivity is the hidden backbone of digital miningWhat it was like to be among the first women working underground in South African minesHow boards should think about technology risk and valueAnd some bonus material about the leadership lessons learned from climbing Mount Everest! Don't miss this fascinating discussion about technology, resilience, and long-term ambition in the mining industry.#MineWarp #mininginnovation #LTE in Mining

In this episode of MineWarp, we explore one of the most extraordinary mining regions on Earth — the Talnakh ore cluster near Norilsk in the Russian Arctic.Our guest Andrei Gritesenko explains why these deposits are among the richest nickel-copper-platinum group metal resources ever discovered — and why that richness creates its own operational challenge.We discuss:The geology of the Siberian Traps that formed these massive sulfide depositsThe Talnakh, Oktyabrsky, Taymyrsky and Skalisty mines, extending more than 2 km undergroundWhy grade control becomes extremely difficult in high-grade, highly variable ore bodiesHow small mistakes in ore/waste boundaries can destroy valueThe unique challenge of mining complex orebodies deep inside the Arctic CircleThis episode highlights how geology, data, and operational discipline intersect in one of the most strategically important mining districts in the world.

Mechanical engineer turned global mining technology leader, David Dickson traces the journey from aerospace engineering to industrial automation and quantum research.We unpack:- OT/IT convergence- The future of autonomous decision layers- The physics behind quantum computing- Why metallurgy may be one of quantum’s first industrial use cases

In this episode of MineWarp, Empie Strydom speaks with Edward Murray, CEO of iGlobe, about how spatial data has evolved from maps and CAD into a core decision-making platform for modern mining.Edward shares his entrepreneurial journey, from early GIS and surveying work through building, selling, and rebuilding technology businesses, and explains why bespoke mining solutions eventually fail at scale. The conversation dives into platform thinking, drones and sensors, real-time data, AI, and why spatial context is essential for turning disconnected datasets into trusted, living assets.Challenging the idea that mining is slow to adopt technology, Edward argues that the industry is now one of the most advanced digital adopters—and offers a forward-looking view on AI, connectivity in Africa, and what the next decade of mining technology could look like.

In this episode of MineWarp, Gary Lane (President of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, SAIMM) unpacks what it takes to build and attract the skills and talent needed for a strong and resilient Southern African Mining industry.Drawing on decades of entrepreneurship and systems-thinking experience, he discusses the need for stewardship, governance and "making mining sexy" again to professionals both young and old.Also under the spotlight is the up and coming role of AI, and what kinds of changes mining should prepare for to remain a valuable contributor to the economy.Don't miss this insightful episode with a highly respected voice in South African mining.

In this episode of MineWarp, host Empie Strydom is joined by Corné Yzelle, Advisory Lead for Business Transformation & Operational Excellence at AMC Consultants, for a deep, practical discussion on what real mining transformation actually means.Moving beyond the usual narratives of digitalisation and technology adoption, the conversation explores delivering sustained, transformational value supported by technology —and what leading organisations do differently. Corné explains why transformation is not about deploying more tools, but about redesigning operating models, decision-making structures, and performance governance so that value is intentionally created and protected over time.The discussion unpacks the critical role of experienced advisors in shaping transformation journeys—providing structure, contextual benchmarking, and continuity that internal teams often struggle to maintain amid operational pressures. Together, Empie and Corné explore concepts such as value flow, value driver alignment, leadership accountability, and why benchmarking must be grounded in the realities of each asset rather than generic “best practice.”This episode is essential viewing for mining executives, transformation leaders, and METS professionals seeking to move from fragmented initiatives to sustained operational excellence—and to understand why consulting-led transformation remains a cornerstone of meaningful, measurable change.

In Part One of this conversation, Emilie Ditton unpacks why the journey toward a low-carbon mine is far more complex than simply electrifying equipment or adopting new technologies. Drawing on her experience working across mining, energy, and industrial environments at Schneider Electric, she explains how decarbonisation efforts are layered on top of already-strained business and operating models, where consistency, profitability, and reliability remain constant pressures.The discussion explores why many sustainability initiatives struggle to scale, highlighting the gap between ambition and execution. Emilie reframes the energy transition as a business transformation challenge—one that demands organisational readiness, cross-functional alignment, and a clear understanding of how energy, operations, and digital capability intersect. This first part sets the foundation for understanding why progress is hard, even when intent is strong.

“Before You Buy More Tech, Use What You Have”A disciplined operations-led view on mining digitalisation with Felipe de Brito Pereira, VP Operations at AngloGold Ashanti.Felipe discusses this and other interesting topics, including letting mining strategy lead technology selection, and his personal fitness regimen!

In this episode of MineWarp, Empie Strydom talks with Dr. Josh Goveia, Acting Manager for Tailing Storage and Water Dams at First Quantum Minerals, about what it really means to lead through learning.From his early days as an academic to taking on real-world engineering challenges in Zambia, Josh shares how the best leaders blend technical excellence with empathy, curiosity, and courage. He reflects on the moments that tested his resilience, how he approaches problem-solving as both a scientist and a human being, and why leadership in mining isn’t about control — it’s about connection.If you’ve ever wondered how culture and mindset shape engineering outcomes, this episode will resonate deeply.#minewarp #miningtechnology #mininginnovation #digitaltransformation

Few voices in South African mining carry more weight — or more candour — than Bernard Swanepoel, Outspoken Industry Leader from THINKspiration, #joburgindaba Chair, and ex CEO of Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited.This week on MineWarp, Bernard shares hard truths about mining’s relevance, leadership courage, and the trust deficit between industry, government and mining communities. What comes through loud and clear is that he’s proud of what South Africa’s mining industry is, and frustrated at what it is not yet becoming.#minewarp #mininginnovation #joburgindaba

In this episode of MineWarp, we sit down with Ahmed Kader, Operations Director at CrystalForge, to unpack how industrial AI is turning operational data into real-world decisions for mines and process plants.Most sites are drowning in sensor data — yet still struggle to connect the dots between systems, teams, and performance. Ahmed explains how CrystalForge’s platform bridges legacy systems with intelligent analytics, creating visibility across assets, processes, and energy use.We discuss the realities of digital transformation in complex industrial environments — from gaining trust in machine recommendations to quantifying ROI. For plant and automation managers, this is a practical look at how to move from dashboards to decisions.#MineWarp #LetsTalkDigital #MiningInnovation

What does it take to optimize billion-dollar mining assets for the future? In this episode, Devin Askham, Global Business Director at Collaborit, shares his journey, Collaborit’s role in SAP-driven asset management, and why trust and visibility are at the heart of digital transformation in mining.#MineWarp #LetsTalkDigital #EAM

Paul Ehlers, CEO of DMS Mining Simulator reveals how gamification and the #Mineralverse are reshaping mining education and collaboration. Discover how simulation makes mining easier to learn - and harder to forget.#MineWarp #MiningInnovation #LetsTalkDigital #MiningGames

In this episode of the MineWarp Podcast, we dive into fleet management, adoption challenges, and Groundhog’s vision of becoming the brain behind the fully automated mine.Satish Penmetsa, CEO and co-founder of Groundhog, explains why mining’s digital race is shifting from hardware tracking to mining orchestration.

In this conversation, Johan Rademan, CEO of Harvinno Digital, Advanced Process Monitoring and Control experts, and GE Vernova Africa distributor, discusses the evolution of his company and the importance of focusing on value in the mining industry. He shares insights on the significance of monitoring and data management, the challenges of control loop performance management, advanced process control and optimization, and the role of predictive and prescriptive analytics in optimizing operations. Johan also offers advice for entrepreneurs on balancing innovation and growth while emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement and support.#Minewarp #letstalkdigital #mininginnovation #AdvancedProcessControl

In this episode of the MineWarp Podcast, Empie engages with Louis Strydom, Director of Growth and Development at Wärtsilä Energy, to discuss the evolving landscape of energy transition, digital transformation, and the challenges faced by developing markets. We explore the importance of flexibility and stability in energy systems, the need for a portfolio approach to innovation, and the environmental considerations surrounding energy technologies. Louis shares insights on financing energy innovations and the necessity of collaboration in energy projects, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to decarbonization. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the MineWarp Podcast05:17 Guest Introduction: Louis Strydom10:59 The Importance of Digital Transformation16:55 Understanding Energy Transition22:55 Challenges in Developing Markets28:41 Financing Energy Innovations34:30 Environmental Considerations in Energy Transition40:21 Lessons Learned in Energy Innovation44:23 Personal Insights and Conclusion#LetsTalkDigital #MineWarp #MiningInnovation

In this episode of the MineWarp Podcast, we delve into the challenges and strategies of building trust in AI recommendations within the mining industry. Join us as we explore insights from Shaun Mitchell, CEO of MaxMine, on how gamification, explainable AI, and a focus on human collaboration are transforming scepticism into acceptance among miners. Discover how these innovative approaches are not only enhancing productivity and safety but also paving the way for a more data-driven future in mining. Tune in to learn how AI is reshaping the landscape and fostering a culture of trust and transparency.

Dive into profitable innovation with Tim Vorage, Operating Partner at 10-Ops. Tim shares how 10-Ops transforms opportunities into actionable operations using AI, Evil Digital Twins, and Inconvenient Truths.Key insights:Leveraging AI to identify and validate new business opportunities.Strategies for scaling innovationTim’s practical advice is a must-hear for CEOs, marketers, and business development managers in the natural resources sector.

Season 2 is here! In this episode of the MineWarp podcast, host Empie Strydom welcomes guests Eric Palmer and Alan Bye to discuss the critical role of Mining Equipment Technology and Services (METS) in the mining industry. They explore the challenges of innovation, investment, and the importance of understanding market fit for new technologies. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI in mining and the personal interests of the guests outside of their professional lives.Episode TakeawaysMETS companies are essential for the future of mining.Innovation in mining occurs in pockets and requires collaboration.Investors face challenges in identifying successful tech companies.The mining sector is ripe for innovation and change.Funding for mining technology often comes from venture capital.Understanding product market fit is crucial for tech start-ups.AI is making an impact but requires careful implementation.Mining companies need to focus on the value they provide to customers.The relationship between innovators and mining companies is symbiotic.

Adriaan Davidse, Director at Deloitte Canada, joins Empie and Jéan to discuss how mining business processes can be optimized for tomorrow’s challenges. They explore how better use of information drives smarter decisions, whether mining is falling behind other industries in digital transformation, and what steps can be taken to close the gap.

Cameron Stevens, a former physical therapist turned passionate health and safety advocate, explores how businesses can keep up with rapid digital trends without losing sight of the people they serve. In this episode, he unpacks how to align digital strategy with real-world safety outcomes and user needs—bridging the gap between tech innovation and human experience.

From high-speed trains to clean water supply, modern infrastructure depends on tunnels that are built faster, safer, and smarter. In this episode, we explore how digital decision support systems are transforming tunnelling by connecting people, machines, and workflows to boost productivity and safety on site.Our guests, Frederik Oberg and Hakan Bolsoy from Epiroc’s Mobilaris Tunneling Intelligence, reveal how next-generation technology is reshaping underground construction—and what it means for the future of infrastructure.

Dive deeper into Proximity Detection, Collision Warning, Collision Avoidance and Collision Prevention Systems with Anton Lourens, CEO of Booyco Electronics. Operational constraints, legal requirements, ergonomics and many other factors must be considered to design the optimal solution to protect people and equipment reliably.

Accurate, real-time inventory data can unlock massive efficiency gains in mining operations. In this episode, Adriaan Goosen of Indurad unpacks how advanced radar solutions are transforming stockpile volumetrics, belt volume monitoring, and material flow visualization—even in the toughest industrial environments. Learn how mining operations are gaining visibility where it matters most.

In mining, every second counts. Maintaining seamless connectivity and real-time awareness of people, equipment, and activity is essential to running a safe, efficient shift. In this episode, we explore how next-generation tracking and communication systems are changing the game underground and on surface.

“Trustworthy AI doesn’t happen by accident—it requires deliberate design and transparency,” says Stefan van der Stockt, Lead Data Scientist and Master Inventor at IBM Data & AI. In this episode, we dive into the hidden cognitive biases of AI agents, the ethical frameworks shaping responsible AI, and some surprising real-world applications already making an impact. If you care about the future of AI in industry, this conversation is a must-listen.

The era of static notice boards is over. In this episode, Chris Potgieter explores how two-way digital communication is transforming the way mining operations connect with their workforce—whether in the boardroom, on site, or even at the bus stop. Discover how smart, targeted messaging is improving engagement, safety, and transparency across the value chain.

This week, join Troy Williams as he dives into the critical impact of drilling and fragmentation on mine feasibility. Hear about cutting-edge techniques in underground drilling and blasting, and how machine learning is revolutionizing the blasting industry. A must-listen for anyone interested in the future of mining technology.

Nobody wins unless everyone gets home safe. In this episode, real-world technologist Alex Bertram shares how cutting-edge sensor technology is replacing risk to people, driving mining operations closer to zero harm. Tune in to discover practical steps toward safer workplaces.

Increasing speed to value and overcoming adoption angst are critical to thriving in digital transformation. Join Debra Johnson, Senior Strategist for Net Zero and Sustainable Mining at Stantec, as she shares expert insights on innovation, sustainability, and how to make digital change stick in the mining industry.

Should geologists still rely on the naked eye, or can sensors and machine learning outperform traditional methods? Mining futurist Gavin Yeates explores this and other fascinating aspects of true digital transformation in mining. Don’t miss this week’s episode of MineWarp!

Value at a mine isn’t just about breaking rock or hoisting tons—it’s about looking at the entire business and uncovering multiple opportunities for improvement. Join value engineer and mining executive Gary Ralph (MineRP) as he highlights four key areas where clients can discover and deliver true value.

By leveraging enterprise models as a foundation for standardization and viewing mining as an integrated process, we can simplify and unify siloed information across the industry. Join Mike Woodhall of MineRP as he discusses these models and essential factors to consider when driving standardization in mining.

How does the natural resources sector stack up against manufacturing when it comes to innovation and digitization? There’s often a disconnect between what tech companies develop and what the market actually adopts. In this episode, TILLIT CEO James Balzary explores how to close that gap, deliver the right solutions, and who’s truly driving value-focused innovation roadmaps in the industry.Tune in for an insightful conversation on aligning technology with real-world needs.Want a shorter social-friendly version?

Interested in real risk management? Jacques Wessels, CEO of Sperosens brings awareness to the importance of an integrated fire management philosophy in modern mines. From verifiable safety actions and records to the latest in fire detection, suppression and management, Jacques addresses multiple burning questions in this week’s podcast.

Automation isn’t just about autonomous vehicles—it’s about boosting efficiency, consistency, and performance across every part of your operation. Join Vladimir Sysoev, Global Manager for 6th Sense and Automation at Epiroc, as he shares expert perspectives on the real benefits automation brings when implemented effectively.

What exactly is a true digital twin, and how can it function as a digital supervisor in asset-intensive industries? How can you ensure that both people and equipment are in the right place at the right time? Join Tony Milton and Leon Cosgrove as they share their insights on these questions and explore the emerging concept of the digital triplet.

Is your daily production output erratic, unpredictable, or unreliable? Feeling the pressure to do more with less? Join Arrie van Niekerk and Callie Roos from Lead4Flow as they explore how the Theory of Constraints can address these challenges—and whether this decades-old approach still holds true in today’s tech-driven industries.

Looking to enhance your value chain with automation and system integration while creating a safer, more efficient operation? Join Hans Schill from Epiroc’s 6th Sense as he discusses the powerful impact of advanced analytics on human behavior, mining operations, and profitability.Discover how Hans helps customers connect machines, systems, and people to drive smarter, streamlined processes.

From building the world’s most sustainable mine to exploring ESG and artificial intelligence, the MineWarp podcast has covered it all. Join hosts Empie Strydom and Jéan Roux as they reflect on how the show has evolved, shared favorite topics and top contributors, and celebrated the global community of listeners.Tune in as they look back on a year of thought-provoking conversations—and gear up for another exciting year ahead with both longtime fans and new listeners alike!

Artificial Intelligence in mining isn’t new—but skepticism and misunderstandings still persist. Is AI just another passing trend, or are we simply too focused on challenges to see the real breakthroughs?Join AI expert Dr. Ali Soofastaei from Vale as he shares practical examples of AI and machine learning transforming mining and natural resources. He clarifies the distinctions between these technologies and highlights their true value in the industry.Have questions for Dr. Ali? Drop them in the comments below!Or explore his work here: soofastaei-publications.com/publications/

Need your mind warped? Andy Sherring from NextGenOpx breaks down how fully integrated operating models are key to aligning people, processes, and technology on the mine with the overall business strategy. Don’t miss this deep dive into driving cohesive, strategic mining operations.

This week, join industry experts Tertius van Niekerk and Val Coetzee from DRA Global as they share valuable insights into the latest trends shaping their sectors. Discover how technology and digitization are driving the balance between environmental responsibility, economic performance, and operational efficiency. Plus, learn how to deliver the data investors need to meet sustainability goals and beyond.

In our milestone 50th episode, we’re joined by Indrasen Naidoo, Managing Partner at Integral Supply Networks, to explore the power of Human-Centric Design in modern supply chains. Discover why digital is an enabler—not the driver—of true resilience and sustainability in supply chain management. A must-listen for anyone rethinking the role of people and tech in SCM.

In this episode, we sit down with Ricus Grimbeek, President and CEO of Trevali, to explore why safety is far more than a compliance exercise—it’s a core driver of operational performance. Gain insight into the mindset of a leader who believes that creating safer, smarter mining operations starts with purpose-driven leadership.

In this episode, we welcome Tom Raftery—SAP Innovation Evangelist, futurist, international keynote speaker, and host of The Climate 21 and Digital Supply Chain podcasts. Tom shares his insights on building sustainable supply chains, addressing climate change, and why digitization is key to creating resilient operations in an era of constant change.

In this episode, Jamie van Schoor of Dwyka Mining Services shares why better data leads to better decisions—and how collaboration is the key to unlocking real success in today’s mining landscape. Tune in for practical insights on the intersection of technology, teamwork, and smarter mining.

Empie sits down with Mikhail Terletsky, CEO of Match Point, and Alexei Chechin, Project Manager at MineRP, to explore the unique trends, approaches, and challenges shaping digital transformation projects in the Russian mining industry.

Focusing on ESG objectives is no longer optional—board members and mining executives understand that savvy investors demand responsible, sustainable performance. Join ESG expert Jacques Erasmus with co-hosts Empie Strydom and Jéan Roux as they explore the critical role of ESG in modern mining.