A new generation of mining engineering and technical specialists are working at Oyu Tolgoi in the South Gobi region. One of them is G.Enkhtsetseg, control operator at the concentrator plant.
The concentrator is one of the key components of the mine. Your job comes with a lot of responsibility. How did you become an Oyu Tolgoi employee?
After I graduated from the School of Technology, named after Sh.Otgonbileg, in Erdenet, I started working for the Mongolian Minerals Processors’ Association. After that, I worked for the Erdenet Mining Corporation for almost three years in health and safety. While I was working at the Erdenet mine, I heard that Oyu Tolgoi was calling for applicants to study a one-year training course. I applied and passed the exam. The courses specialised in minerals concentration, metallurgy, mining engineering and management. The courses were held in 2010-2011 at the Polytechnical College of Darkhan, a branch of the Mongolian University of Science and Technology. We also did a practical internship at the Erdenet mine.
What are the specifics of this training programme? Does specialised training mean the course is for university graduates?
The requirements for the training state that the applicants have to hold a bachelor degree or be studying for a master’s degree. I love my profession, so I chose to do this training course to further myself in my professional field. The training provides us with knowledge and skills via a special curriculum that covers the latest advances in technology used at Oyu Tolgoi. Many competent teachers taught us. The training also refreshes the knowledge of people who have not worked in their professional field since graduating from university. I improved my English skill through the intensive language course. Because of this another opportunity emerged.
Were all successful graduates provided with the opportunity? Or were there other selection criteria?
Seven people from Darkhan and one person from Erdenet were selected and given the opportunity to visit the Kennecott Utah Copper mine in the Salt Lake Valley in the US for one month of practical training. We gained practical experience in all areas of operations including the crusher mill, floatation and the control room. The on-the-ground practical training was very effective.
Did the specialists who received the one-year specialised training and one-month practical training go directly to work at Oyu Tolgoi after returning from America?
I came back from America in May, 2012 and started working shortly afterwards. But I didn’t my job immediately. I spent about two months doing on the job training, making myself familiar with the plant and job. Today, everyone who graduated from the one-year training course in Darkhan is working at Oyu Tolgoi.
What does a concentrator plant operator do?
In simple terms, a concentrator plant operator manages the process of receiving ore from the mine, crushing the ore and producing concentrate. There are many stages in the process. The operators have the best knowledge about the equipment, the conveyers and the production technology. For example, the operator of the flotation section is very knowledgable about any small changes in the solids, the reactions, the water and air in the production process.
Why did you select this profession? Did other people influence you? Is mining a difficult profession for a woman?
I was close to the mining industry even before I enrolled in the university. My parents work at a mineral concentrator. My husband and his parents work at the Erdenet copper mine. Compared to other provinces, children of Erdenet are close to the mining industry. Even my son wants to go to the concentrator with his grandparents. I don’t think the mining profession is difficult for women. Maybe, some people think it is difficult because of night shift work. But people adapt quickly, so there are no difficulties.
Do you have the opportunity and time for personal development at the mine site, in your free time?
Of course. There is free time to develop myself. I enjoy all types of sports during my free time. Our colleagues are also learning English. Generally, we spend our free time very effectively.
As a representative of a new generation of Mongolians working in this world-class mine, what are your goals?
My goal is to become a top specialist in the mining sector, just like my parents who have been working in their professional field for 35 years. I imagine the future of Oyu Tolgoi is very bright. Mining means the development of Mongolia. Therefore, I think every person who works here should be the top and best in their professional field. Also they need to learn all the time from the best international and national engineers and experts.
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