What are the key milestones in a typical shotfirer’s career path in the mining industry?

1. Obtain a Dangerous Goods Security Card (DGSC).
2. Start as charge-up crew (underground), blast crew or shotfirers assistant (surface).
3. Develop your skills and experience by working with an experienced shotfirer and/or shotfiring team in an active mine site.
4. After a minimum of 6 months, depending on your experience, complete a surface or underground shotfiring course.
5. Obtain Statement of Attainment SoA and apply for your shotfiring licence.
6. Continue working and developing your experience and skill set at a mine site; keep practicing alongside other experienced shotfirers.
7. Once you’ve gained solid experience you can progress your career into leading hand or blast supervisors roles, trainer and assessors, civil/demolition blasting, consultancy, leadership and management roles and even ongoing into blast design or mining engineering avenues.