Dirt Talk by BuildWitt – Episode DT 288: Thiess Live at MINExpo with Michael Wright
Release Date: November 14, 2024
In Episode DT 288 of Dirt Talk by BuildWitt, host Aaron engages in an in-depth conversation with Michael Wright from Thiess, a stalwart in the mining and construction industry. The episode, recorded live at MINExpo, delves into Thiess's rich history, global expansion, technological advancements, corporate culture, and the future of mining.
1. History and Growth of Thiess
Michael Wright opens the discussion by tracing Thiess’s origins, highlighting its humble beginnings and evolution over the decades.
Michael Wright (B): "We started 90 years ago in the Darling Downs sort of west of Brisbane in Queensland with five brothers, the Thiess brothers, coming out of a farming community off the Depression and trying to make a dollar." [01:21]
Thiess initially focused on transitioning farming equipment to construction, tackling basic road projects. Over time, the company expanded its reach through innovation, increasing project sizes, and diversifying its client base. The foray into mining began in 1944, responding to the energy crisis in New South Wales, particularly in coal mining.
2. Global Expansion and Market Presence
Michael details Thiess’s strategic expansion beyond Australia, emphasizing key milestones and partnerships that facilitated their international footprint.
B: "We've been in nine countries around the world and it's truly exciting business." [02:39]
Thiess first ventured into Indonesia in the 1980s through a joint venture with Petriýsi, now a competitor. This move laid the groundwork for long-term partnerships, allowing Thiess to re-enter Indonesia over three decades later. In 2007, they expanded into Mongolia, securing significant contracts like the UHG Mining project at the Tavern Torgoy Metallurgical coal deposit.
Further expansions include:
- Chile (since 2000): Working predominantly with Anifagaster Minerals.
- Cambodia: Acquired Maca a year and a half prior to the episode, enhancing operations in gold mining.
- North America: Established an office in Salt Lake City three years ago, with ongoing projects in Colorado and a recent initiation of operations in Sudbury, Canada, in partnership with local First Nations companies and Vale.
3. Service Offerings and Differentiation
Thiess stands out in the mining industry by offering comprehensive services that span the entire lifecycle of a mining operation.
B: "We can help plan the mine, operate the mine, and then help close the mine." [08:03]
Their services include mine planning, resource development, asset management, and reclamation. By handling everything from opening a mine to its eventual closure, Thiess provides a seamless and integrated experience for clients, allowing them to focus on exploration, development, and marketing of commodities.
4. Asset Management and Technological Innovations
A significant portion of the discussion centers on Thiess’s robust asset management capabilities and their embrace of cutting-edge technology.
B: "We've got more than 2000 bits of big mining gear, more than 1200 mining trucks... we've got component centers in Balikpapan in Indonesia, in Perth, in Brisbane." [10:45]
Thiess has invested heavily in maintaining and upgrading their vast array of equipment. They have established rebuild facilities in Indonesia and Chile, with plans to expand to the Americas. This infrastructure not only supports their operations but also offers potential services to clients.
On technology, Michael emphasizes the transformative impact of data and automation in mining:
B: "The amount of data that we get off our equipment these days is phenomenal... autonomy is a big leap forward." [22:26]
Thiess operates a remote operating center in Indonesia, processing millions of data points to optimize real-time decision-making. They have also pioneered autonomous operations, including autonomous drills and dozers, enhancing productivity and safety.
5. Corporate Culture and Workforce Management
Thiess places a strong emphasis on safety, mental health, and fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace. Michael shares insights into their workforce strategies and cultural initiatives.
B: "Every employee survey we get, the number one thing that people come back to us and say we're doing exceptionally well is safety." [28:27]
Key initiatives include:
- Respectful Workplace Programs: Addressing issues like sexual harassment and bullying with zero-tolerance policies and comprehensive training.
- Diverse Workforce: Actively working to include more women, Indigenous peoples, and veterans in their workforce.
- Family-Friendly Rosters: Designing work schedules that accommodate family responsibilities, such as 9am to 1pm shifts to allow parents to balance work and home life.
Thiess also invests in training and development through the Thiess Institute, aiming to upskill their employees and foster leadership from within.
6. Future of Mining and Industry Insights
Looking ahead, Michael articulates Thiess’s vision for the mining industry, emphasizing sustainability, the energy transition, and the critical role of mining in global development.
B: "World needs mining and we need to get society back on track to understand how important mining is to the future energy transition." [17:29]
Key points include:
- Sustainability: Commitment to reducing the environmental impact of mining operations and promoting the decarbonization of the industry.
- Critical Minerals: Focusing on essential minerals and metals vital for technologies driving the energy transition, such as copper and gold.
- Community Engagement: Enhancing relationships with local communities and Indigenous groups to ensure respectful and beneficial partnerships.
7. Conclusion
The episode concludes with reflections on the personal balance between career and family, underscoring the human element behind Thiess’s global operations.
B: "Trying to spend time, when you do get home with them, quality time, which is difficult." [44:27]
Michael acknowledges the challenges of managing a demanding career while maintaining family relationships but emphasizes the rewards and pride in contributing to a globally impactful industry.
Notable Quotes:
- Michael Wright: "We can help plan the mine, operate the mine, and then help close the mine." [08:03]
- B: "The amount of data that we get off our equipment these days is phenomenal." [22:26]
- B: "We are a client business. Ultimately if we lose our clients, we lose our business." [31:32]
- B: "We're focused on safety foremost and really do take that seriously." [28:32]
- B: "World needs mining and we need to get society back on track to understand how important mining is to the future energy transition." [17:29]
Key Takeaways:
- Thiess’s Legacy: From its agrarian roots, Thiess has grown into a global leader in mining and construction, prioritizing innovation and adaptability.
- Comprehensive Services: Offering end-to-end solutions in mining operations, Thiess distinguishes itself by managing projects from inception to closure.
- Technological Prowess: Embracing data analytics and autonomous technologies, Thiess enhances operational efficiency and safety.
- Commitment to Culture: A strong focus on safety, diversity, and respectful workplaces fosters a positive and productive environment for employees.
- Sustainable Future: Thiess is dedicated to playing a pivotal role in the energy transition, ensuring mining practices are sustainable and socially responsible.
This episode of Dirt Talk provides valuable insights into Thiess’s operations and the broader mining industry's trajectory, making it a must-listen for professionals and enthusiasts alike.