David Swisher VP Mining, Minerals and Metals, US Operations WORLEY
What services does Worley offer mining clients, and which are driving demand?
In May-June 2023, we underwent a reorganization focused on enhancing our credibility and branding within the US market. Our service offerings include consulting, digital solutions, front-end and early-phase studies, detailed studies and project execution. What challenges are mining clients facing in the Western US?
Clients face challenges due to complex regulatory systems at both state and federal levels. These regulations extend project timelines from 5 years to 15-20 years. This longer duration strains client capital as they invest heavily to navigate an unfriendly regulatory environment. Additionally, meeting community and environmental requirements is difficult. Worley focuses on helping clients address these challenges to ensure project delivery is on time and within budget. What benefits does Worley's broad expertise bring to mining clients?
With the industry's struggle to find experienced personnel, we provide our own skilled team to support client operations. How are does Worley help mining operations in the Western USA adapt to climate change?
We account for historical climate data in engineering work to minimize risks associated with climate change. Regulations also focus on climate considerations, making it crucial for us to design projects that adapt to changing weather patterns. This ensures that operations are resilient to climate impacts and aligns with responsible environmental stewardship. What is Worley’s approach to technology and innovation in the mining sector?
Worley is committed to integrating new technologies to provide cost-effective, environmentally friendly solutions. Our technology team supports client technologies under strict confidentiality and focuses on proactive innovation to deliver the best solutions for clients. What are Worley’s goals and growth strategies for the next 24 months in the Western USA?
Our goal is to drive success within the US market by adhering to sustainability and ESG objectives, offsetting poorer practices seen globally, and ensuring our clients' projects meet high standards of environmental responsibility.
Dustin Wasley and Rick Frechette DW: PE, Principal / Mining Market Leader RF: PE, Principal Engineer HALEY & ALDRICH
What were key developments for Haley & Aldrich in 2023 and 2024?
DW: Haley & Aldrich saw significant growth in our mining practice, particularly in Nevada, Arizona and Montana. We expanded our presence in the Rocky Mountain region, focusing on legacy projects, mine closure and reclamation services. Our capabilities encompass early-stage permitting for new mines, operational compliance and mine closure, addressing current operations and legacy issues like abandoned mine sites.
RF: We saw substantial growth in our hard rock mining services, especially with operating metal mines in Nevada and Arizona. Our support includes geotechnical analysis, design for leach pads, tailings facilities, and closure planning, particularly focused on reclamation cost estimating and operational support in these topics. How have the demand and nature of services evolved in the mining sector?
RF: The implementation of global tailings management standards has led to a greater need for qualified Engineers of Record. We are increasingly engaged as third-party experts to help facilities meet new standards. How are mining companies adapting to climate change and water management challenges?
RF: A primary concern is gathering reliable data to predict changes in precipitation and extreme weather. Companies are integrating these uncertainties into their plans, adhering to the GISTM. Our hydrology team employs methods like probable maximum precipitation and probable maximum floods to manage water-related risks. We use available data to develop adaptable strategies for immediate and long-term climate impacts. How can legacy mine sites enhance supply chain resiliency?
DW: Legacy mine sites, although inactive, still hold valuable mineral resources. Modern operations can extract resources from old waste, clean up the sites, and restore ecosystems. For instance, Perpetua Resources in Idaho aims to completely reclaim a severely impacted mining district while producing much-needed critical and strategic minerals and precious metals.