Women will find careers in mining.
Although traditionally considered a male-dominated industry, mining offers many career opportunities for women. Whether in the labor-intensive extraction sector of the industry, or the more professional engineering side, women interested in mining will find many career options. Mining schools offer one route for women to get into a the industry. In 2010, the Colorado School of Mines reported that women made up 24 percent of the student population.
Assayer
An assayer works in a lab and analyzes ore. Using machines such as analytical spectroscopes and A-ray diffraction machines, as well as chemical processes, assayers analyze whether ore is rich enough to be worth mining. Assayers must have good people skills because they deal with scientists and engineers. They should also have strong writing skills and be be able to compile reports. Assayers generally have a degree from vocational school or a Bachelor of Science from a university.
Blaster
Blasters detonate explosives in mines when it's necessary to break apart large rocks, and may work in an underground mine or quarry. Blasters must also have good judgment and know how much explosive to use and where best to use it. A dangerous job, blasting also requires physical stamina. Blasters must be familiar with safety regulations and should know read blueprints. A blaster will need to get a blasting license, but can work as a "blaster learner" in order to get experience. Blasting licenses are typically issued on a state-by-state basis.
Geologist
Geologists are scientists who study rocks and minerals. Working for mining companies, they look for patterns of rock formation, hoping to find deposits of valuable minerals. Geologists collect specimens, construct survey maps and use machines, such as seismic instruments. Geologists are often required to travel to remote places. Most geologists have master's degrees.
Hydrologist
Hydrologists focus on environmental issues and responsible land management. They check issues such as water contamination or the effect of land erosion on water supply. The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts demand for hydrologists to grow faster than average through 2018. Women interested in hydrology should take courses in soil science, aquatic biology, atmospheric science, oceanography and hydrogeology.
Environmental engineer
Environmental engineers make sure mines meet federal, state and local legal requirements. They may work on getting permits for new projects or reclamation plans for finished projects. An environmental engineer has to study a variety of subjects, among them engineering, chemistry, geology and biology. As well as having scientific knowledge, an environmental engineer must understand public policy. Not surprisingly, environmental engineers go to school for a long time, often getting master's and doctorate degrees.
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