What were the key milestones for Maptek in early 2023 and 2024?

CF: In early 2023 and 2024, Maptek reached several key milestones, marked by the successful expansion of our solutions portfolio beyond Vulcan. While Vulcan continues to be essential for geological modeling and mine planning, we are proud to have broadened our capabilities to address evolving industry needs. A standout achievement was deploying our advanced slope monitoring system, Sentry, for several clients, with a particularly notable installation for a major client in Nevada. This solution addressed unexpected ground movement, significantly improving both safety and operational efficiency. Additionally, the implementation of Maptek BlastLogic at a major copper mine in Utah revolutionized their blast design and execution processes with real-time performance tracking.

RH: A significant milestone for Maptek has been the extensive deployment of over 100 Lidar scanners across North America and globally. The widespread adoption of Lidar technology highlights its value in optimizing operations, improving safety, and delivering precise data. Can you discuss Maptek’s footprint and specific projects in the Western USA?

RH: Maptek has proudly served the Western US since 1995, establishing a strong foundation with our first office in Denver. Our strategic growth continued with the opening of our Elko, Nevada office five years ago. Today, most mines in the Western US rely on some form of our innovative solutions, often starting with smaller integrations and scaling up as their operations and needs evolve. What are the challenges of technology adoption in mining, particularly in the Western USA?

CF: We are witnessing significant AI adoption with Maptek DomainMCF, where machine learning analyzes drill hole or other sample data to create unbiased resource models. By considering structural elements and assessing data comprehensively, our cloud-based technology saves geologists from labor-intensive and time-consuming data manipulation. This innovation allows clients to generate preliminary models in hours instead of months, streamlining processes and decision-making. The response to DomainMCF has been particularly positive among geologists in the Western USA, who appreciate its ability to simplify complex workflows and deliver actionable results quickly. How is Maptek addressing the challenges in the mining industry?

RH: The mining industry is currently contending with significant macro trends that hinder effective data utilization, most notably the shortage of skilled talent such as mining engineers and geologists. To address the talent gap, Maptek collaborates with universities by helping to fund mining programs and providing free software and training, helping to foster the next generation of industry professionals. Recognizing the industry’s challenge in finding skilled personnel, we support our clients by offering solutions that ease workloads and improve efficiency. Can you discuss the increasing trend of automation in the industry?

RH: Automation is playing an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the mining industry, addressing challenges such as evolving workforce conditions while unlocking tremendous opportunities. At Maptek, we see automation as a valuable strategy to enhance efficiency, safety, and overall productivity in mining operations. By integrating automation into our products, we are enabling our clients to streamline processes, reduce manual tasks, and focus on higher-impact activities.

CF: In the current landscape, there is a notable shift towards cross-disciplinary automation that integrates diverse products. Our solutions, powered by advanced cloud technology, are designed to not only streamline these workflows but also address the specific business requirements of mining companies. What importance does Maptek place on the Western USA?

CF: The Western USA stands out for its collaborative opportunities, where companies often manage multiple properties, allowing us to share best practices and align operations across sites. What are your goals and objectives for the next 24 months, and how will you maintain your leadership in mine design software space?

CF: One key trend we're prioritizing with Maptek technology is the breaking down of silos between traditional roles, like geologists and engineers, and operational functions such as blasting and equipment tracking. In the Western US, we're witnessing a noticeable shift towards continuous data sharing among departments, moving away from the previous handover approach. This real-time flow of information, such as tracking stockpile conditions and personnel, is crucial for making informed decisions in the field.