In 1997, Mine Planning Engineer Gerardo first started his mining career in home country Chile as an enthusiastic graduate engineer fresh out of university.

Fast forward to 2022, Gerardo celebrated his 25th anniversary with BHP.  

In 2007, after working with BHP for 10 years in a Chile copper mine, Gerardo and his family were presented with the opportunity to relocate to Australia.

While a very hard decision to make at the time, it’s a decision he is thankful he made and remains grateful of the opportunities that offered to him and his family as a result.

“Moving to a new country wasn’t without its challenges; we were in a new country, surrounded by new people where we had to learn a new language, but we knew the opportunities that lay ahead of us would be worth it.”

Gerardo’s first taste of Australian living was in South Australia where he spent his first assignment at Olympic Dam. Soon after, he moved to Townsville before landing in Brisbane where he has resided for the past 13 years.

Gerardo describes ‘the people’ as the best thing about working at BHP.

“I’ve been so fortunate to have worked with colleagues who have supported me in my career. Colleagues who have respected me as a person and as a practitioner and have aided in my development”.

“Having supportive people in a work environment makes it enjoyable and allows you to thrive”. 

From plotting data by hand using pen and paper to becoming proficient with digital programs, Gerardo has seen the mining industry evolve significantly, signalling the advance in technology and mining tools as the biggest change he has witnessed.

The biggest piece of advice Gerardo has after his 25 years of service is to take opportunities with both hands.

“I feel proud to be here; to be recognised and respected by your peers and to have the chance to celebrate with them is extremely humbling.”

“Have no regrets on the decisions you make. Take all the opportunities you are presented with. It’s worth it and may just change your life.”