About us

mine mentor

Our aim is to help underground geotechnical engineers achieve success in technical excellence through accessible learning, practical advice, and assistance. 

Courses

Testimonials

What our learners say

As a mine geotechnical engineer who recently transitioned from open pit to underground, I’ve found the topics offered by Mine Mentor extremely useful. Not only do they provide a general overview of key concepts, but they also include detailed information that I can refer back to when relevant issues arise at work. The handout notes are informative and include references to papers and books, which is especially valuable as I can read those sources for a deeper understanding. Ruth is also very approachable and friendly, which makes me feel comfortable asking questions and reaching out in the future.
Meiqi Shi, Geotechnical Engineer
As a geotechnical engineer in Australia, finding relevant training options can be a real challenge, so having access to a resource like Mine Mentor has been fantastic. Even as an experienced geotech, the platform has been an invaluable refresher, helping to sharpen my skills. I especially appreciate that the training is delivered in short stints, which is perfect for my busy schedule and allows me to learn and grow without disrupting my work.
Having access to an experienced professional/s who can provide guidance and a second opinion on complex problems has been invaluable. It’s not just about getting answers; it’s about learning how to think critically and approach challenges with confidence. I can’t recommend Mine Mentor enough to any geotechnical engineer looking to excel in their career.
Izak Morkel, Geotechnical Director and Mining Consultant
Our goals

learn together

Let us help you realize your learning goals to become a successful underground geotechnical engineer
  • If you are just finishing up your studies or coming from another discipline, there are topics aimed at getting started with the basics
  • If you have the basics covered but want to learn more, hone your skills, or branch out, there are intermediate to advanced topics to choose from – all with a practical focus
About me

Ruth Stephenson

With over 20 years of experience in the mining industry, a BSc in geology and MSc in mining geomechanics, my strengths include mentoring others to help them achieve success.
Ruth's experience includes nine years at underground mine site operations in Western Australia and over 12 years of consulting to mines and projects globally including studies, reviews, operational assistance, and auditing.
She is passionate about sharing her knowledge through training and helping others to solve challenges.
She is based in Margaret River, Western Australia. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, hiking, gardening, and kitesurfing.
About me

Mike Sandy

With over 40 years of experience in the mining industry, a BSc in mining geology and MSc in engineering rock mechanics, Mike has 17 years of experience at underground operations in Zambia and Australia followed by 30 years in consulting. He has significant experience in deep, high stress mines and in the management of seismicity and squeezing ground conditions. Mike lectured on practical topics to the UNSW 8140 (hard rock) master of geomechanics programme between 2005 and 2015. He has contributed to over 20 publications and continues to make significant contributions to the global geotechnical community.
Work process

The best learning tools you can get

Webinar videos

Watch and learn from the experts!

Text material

Comprehensive written handouts explaining the webinar content in detail.

Competency Assessments

In development - coming soon!

Q&A or 1:1 sessions

The complete course includes weekly Q&A sessions. Individual modules include Q&A or 1:1 sessions.
Need more help?

Online mentoring

A great way to learn is to do the work yourself whilst being given the guidance to do it well. The mentoring packages offered by mine mentor are tailored to do just that – you choose how to use the mentoring time on offer.

Or perhaps you have things pretty well covered and simply need someone to bounce ideas off

Learn to be an expert!

1. Underground geotechnical engineering fundamentals
2. Geotechnical data collection
3. Geotechnical domains
4. Underground mining methods
5. Underground geotechnical empirical excavation design
6. Raise bore and shaft analysis
7. Portal analysis and design
8. Ground support designs
9. Geotechnical studies
10. Introduction to numerical modelling
11. Mine seismicity in practice
12. Squeezing ground
13. Underground geotechnical monitoring
14. Effective ground control management in practice
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