Meet Shayera, a dedicated student currently pursuing a Bachelor of Mining Engineering with honours at the West Australian School of Mines (Curtin Kalgoorlie).
Having arrived in Kalgoorlie in 2023, she is now in her second year on campus, completing her study in the heart of Western Australia’s mining industry.
Shayera’s path to mining engineering wasn’t straightforward. Initially, due to her love for chemistry in high school, she planned to pursue chemical engineering. However, an internship with BHP during her first year at university shifted her focus toward mining, sparking a deep interest in the field and leading her to switch her major. Since then, she has embraced mining engineering wholeheartedly and has never looked back.
Studying mining engineering in Kalgoorlie has been an enriching experience for Shayera. She describes the degree as enjoyable, with courses covering geology, economics, and mining methods. The opportunity to study in Kalgoorlie, where mining is central to the region’s identity, has provided her with invaluable industry exposure. She says that her degree is “really enjoyable to study because you’re out in the mining heart of WA” and finds her thesis work particularly rewarding, where she can engage in research that challenges her intellectually.
Shayera had the unique opportunity to travel to the United States as part of the WASM Wombats mining games team, an unforgettable experience. The International Collegiate Mining Competition consists of seven events involving traditional mining techniques where mining universities from all over the world represent their country/state and compete. The competition encourages learning, networking and global scale teamwork within the industry. Shayera represented the WASM Wombats as part of the first women’s team in several years and reiterates how it is an “invaluable opportunity to be able to go to America, supported by our amazing industry sponsors, getting to meet some awesome people in the mining industry and adding to my connections and growing my portfolio”.
For those considering a move to Kalgoorlie for their studies, Shayera offers clear and sure advice: seize the opportunity. She is straightforward with her experience, when speaking on the transition saying, “It was very daunting, I won’t lie”, most especially for those leaving behind family and friends. However, she emphasises the endless opportunities available in Kalgoorlie, from job prospects to industry connections.
“Take the chance. It’s the best opportunity. If you’re studying engineering, geology, surveying, and you have to come to Kal, do it. Don’t regret it. The opportunities are endless”
She also advises students to immerse themselves in campus life and join clubs, as this has helped her build a strong network and feel more at home in Kalgoorlie. Beyond her academic pursuits, Shayera has taken on a leadership role as the president of the WASM Social Club. In this position, she has found joy in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for her peers. The Social Club serves as a hub for students to unwind and connect after a long week, and Shayera loves organising industry nights and social events that brings everyone together. Motivated by her experiences of the past club president creating a welcoming environment, where all students wanted to be a part of the club, she wanted to be that person for new students as well.
“I’ve been able to connect students to industry and be that bridge between the gap, I’ve loved it.”
Her passion for fostering community and bridging the gap between students and industry professionals has made her tenure as president both rewarding and impactful. Looking ahead, Shayera aspires to work in underground mining and eventually achieve a first-class mine manager’s certification. Though she initially thought she would leave academia behind after her degree, she is now considering the possibility of further studies, perhaps even a PhD, inspired by her love of learning and research.
Shayera’s journey at Curtin Kalgoorlie reflects her adaptability, passion, and leadership. From shifting study focus, moving afar, and growing as a person, she has fully immersed herself in both her studies and the community. As she looks forward to a future in underground mining, her experiences and connections at WASM have not only shaped her career aspirations but also ignited a potential interest in further academic pursuits!
