Your career path is not always this long or winding road. It will look different for each and every one of us. Some talk about the career ladder that one needs to climb to get to the top. Both of these scenario's imply that there is only one way to get where you want to be. My mentor once told me that I should imagine my career as a jungle gym, where there are always options. She was so so right! Sometimes, you need to step sideways before you step up. Or you you can stay where you are for a little while before you take a diagonal step.
What does this mean in the mining industry though? It means that a geologist doesn't have to be a geologist forever. It means that a mining engineer doesn't have to be a miner, then shiftboss, then a mine overseer, then underground manager. It's okay to want to break free from a mould but it's up to you to research what your options are and to find someone to guide you too. If you look hard enough, you will find someone that has followed an unconventional career path and you should find out why and how.
It's okay to be scared, but it's not okay to stagnate. You are meant to learn new things and to live your life to it's fullest potential. Don't get stuck in the position you are for too long.
Until next time, stay safe!
