The next decade brings with it the greatest workforce challenge we’ve ever faced. Machines and automation are replacing and augmenting human tasks. As we strategise for autonomous workers and the decarbonisation and electrification of everything, we need to think very carefully about how we build the foundation for this future workforce.

To match the ever-increasing speed of technology development it is more important than ever that we increase the rate at which we innovate too. As Asset Management leaders we must create a culture that enables rapid innovation through co-creation and collaboration.

• the role technology could play in helping maintenance and reliability functions evolve
• the importance of people and partnerships
• the importance of a culture willing to embrace change
• creating of solid ecosystems
• soft skills are as important as technical skills

Maintenance Superintendent at Rio Tinto, then GM of Strategy at MMG, Michelle went on to be Chief Innovation Officer for Barrick Gold. In 2019, Michelle won the Technology Innovator of the Year Award by Mines and Technology. She serves as Chair of the Global Mining Guidelines Group (GMG), is also on the board or advisory board of several start-ups.