Lukas F.

- Leading mining autonomy at Mariana Minerals, focused on automating core mining unit operations to enable a 10x production ramp-up. - Owned and executed $3.5M+ in projects across autonomous haulage, drilling, ground and aerial drones, and mobile equipment telemetry. Deployed systems in under 3 months, helping enable the re-opening of the Copper One mine.

𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: • Led research initiatives on hydrometallurgical recovery methods to extract strategic elements from mine waste streams, enhancing resource utilization • Managed a >$150K project to increase comminution efficiency in copper concentrator mills • Developed a comprehensive data analytics pipeline for geochemical data analysis supporting critical mineral initiatives across operations

𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: • Focused on verifying mine slope performance against as-built design assumptions to optimize the productivity and safety of mining operations. • Work informs back analyses and future design studies, contributing to strategic decision-making processes. 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: • Co-led a task force of senior engineers, securing $14M+ for geology/geotechnical projects • Performed comprehensive geotechnical investigations using software like Rocscience, Pointstudio, and Leapfrog to analyze slope behavior and ensure conformance with design expectations. • Created an ArcGIS-based natural slopes inspection tool, enhancing the ability to monitor and assess slope stability. • Implemented an ArcGIS database system for slope performance and presented findings to the MTRT (Mine Technical Review Team) and TEG (Technical Evaluation Group). • Published and presented the work titled "Semi-Automated Geotechnical Workflow Utilizing UAV Data for Enhanced Hazard Assessment and Safety at Rio Tinto Kennecott" at the 58th U.S. Rock Mechanics/Geomechanics Symposium. • Facilitated regular communication of ongoing investigations and process improvements with internal stakeholders and external review board experts. 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: ✔ Provided critical insights that enhanced the accuracy and reliability of mine slope performance assessments, directly contributing to safer and more productive mining operations. ✔ Improved data management and analysis processes, fostering a more informed and strategic approach to mine planning and risk management. ✔ Contributed to the advancement of geotechnical monitoring practices through the development of innovative tools, successful implementation of ArcGIS systems, and the dissemination of research findings to key technical groups.

𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: • Focused on the innovative exploration of tailings re-use, particularly for the recovery of critical metals. • Engaged in an interdisciplinary role requiring the integration of Geology, Mining Engineering, Mine Life-Cycle Assessment, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors. 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: • Conducted detailed research to investigate the potential of tailings re-use, advancing the recovery of critical metals, reducing environmental impact, and promoting resource efficiency. • Co-Authored papers currently under review, including: • "Lithium production in the United States: Socio-technical review of sites, environmental impacts, and social acceptance" • "Reprocessing Mine Tailings to Recover Metals: State of Practice and Knowledge Gaps" • "Graphite and manganese mining in the US: Proposed projects and federal battery mineral policies" • "Evaluating Nickel and Cobalt Availability from U.S. Mines and Refineries" • Bridged the gap between geological studies, mining engineering tactics, mine life-cycle evaluation, and ESG considerations to ensure sustainable and responsible recovery practices. • Contributed to aligning critical mineral recovery strategies with ESG criteria, enhancing sustainability and minimizing the environmental footprint of mining operations. 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: ✔ Advanced the understanding and application of tailings re-use for critical metal recovery, supporting the sustainability of mining operations. ✔ Played a crucial role in integrating ESG considerations into mineral recovery strategies, driving responsible and eco-friendly mining practices. ✔ Supported interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering a holistic approach to mineral recovery that balances technical, environmental, and social factors.

𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: • Conducted pit-wide slope verification studies and implemented improved reporting systems, gaining approval from an external review board. • Developed a novel rockfall monitoring approach, leading to the acquisition of drone-based LiDAR technology. • Supported mobile LiDAR scanning and data processing, advising on roadmap development for various business units. 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: • Successfully presented the rockfall monitoring approach to internal and external reviewers, influencing technology procurement decisions. • Quickly built proficiency in Power BI and SQL, enabling the delivery of robust data to external consultants for high-priority projects. • Enhanced reporting and monitoring processes, contributing to improved safety and operational efficiency across the mine. 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: ✔ Implemented advanced geotechnical monitoring method, significantly improving the mine’s ability to detect rockfalls and mitigate risks. ✔ Played a key role in the integration of new technologies, driving innovation in the mine’s geotechnical practices. ✔ Contributed to the development of data-driven strategies that supported critical decision-making processes for multiple business units.

𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: • Deployed and tested remote sensing equipment underground at the Henderson Panel-Caving Mine. • Improved data utilization and conducted integration studies for robotic systems. • Involved in geological mapping, data entry, and convergence monitoring using both manual methods and mobile LiDAR scanning. • Designed and 3D-printed models of underground openings for side projects. 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: • Performed geotechnical mapping, convergence and damage monitoring, and risk assessments. • Successfully tested and implemented new mobile LiDAR technology with external vendors, improving mine-wide geotechnical monitoring. • Led field testing of ROVs, including drones, crawler robots, and robotic arms, and managed various 3D printing projects. 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: ✔ Enhanced data accuracy and monitoring processes, contributing to safer and more efficient mining operations. ✔ Improved integration of advanced robotic technologies, paving the way for future innovations in underground mining.

𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: • Project Lead as part of MSc thesis for a comprehensive pre-feasibility study on an innovative mining method in collaboration with Rio Tinto and Bauer Maschinen GmbH • Worked with German, US, and Canadian stakeholders and vendors to advance the project 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: • Conducted an in-depth brownfield site and operation assessment, providing critical insights for project viability • Developed a mining sequence tailored for novel mining equipment, optimizing operational efficiency • Prepared detailed project schedules, aligning timelines with key milestones and stakeholder expectations • Led financial evaluation and sensitivity analysis, ensuring robust economic assessment and risk mitigation • Conducted environmental and social impact assessments, aligning the project with sustainability goals and regulatory standards 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: ✔ Led a pioneering project that integrated advanced mining technologies, contributing to Rio Tinto's innovation pipeline ✔ Enhanced cross-border collaboration, leveraging expertise from German, US, and Canadian teams ✔ Delivered a pre-feasibility study that balanced technical innovation with financial, environmental, and social considerations, paving the way for FalCon bulk sample project and potential large-scale implementation

𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: • Completed an internship in a small-scale underground iron ore mining operation • Engaged in hands-on shift work and assisted with various aspects of mine operations 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀: • Worked on drill and blast crew • Supported mine management: ➔ Assisted in due diligence tasks ➔ Contributed to operational planning efforts • Conducted underground surveying activities 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀: • Underground mining techniques and safety procedures • Jumbo drilling equipment operation • Blasting operations and safety protocols • Underground surveying tools and methods • Operational planning in underground mining 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: ✔ Gained practical experience in various aspects of underground iron ore mining ✔ Contributed to the efficient operation of a small-scale mining operation ✔ Developed a comprehensive understanding of underground mining processes, from drilling to blasting and surveying

𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: • Contributed to Newmont's Full Potential program, a key initiative for operational efficiency and value creation • Completed an internship focusing on various aspects of mining engineering 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀: • Engaged in project work covering: ➔ Strategic mine planning and schedule optimization ➔ Pit and haul road design with due diligence ➔ Reserve and resource reconciliation ➔ Cycle time and haulage cost development • Contributed to the Full Potential program's initiatives: ➔ Identified opportunities for operational efficiencies and value creation ➔ Assisted in developing site-owned, site-led improvement models • Performed evaluation of mine planning and scheduling software 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀: • Mine planning and scheduling software (GEOVIA Whittle, Minesight, Vulcan) • Continuous improvement methodologies • Operational efficiency analysis • MS SharePoint (transition contact person) 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: ✔ Contributed to Newmont's Full Potential program, which has delivered close to $5 billion in value as of Q3 2022 ✔ Supported efforts to improve cost efficiency and productivity across Newmont's global operations ✔ Gained comprehensive exposure to both open pit and underground mining practices within a culture of continuous improvement

Worked with underground crews on construction and maintenance activities, including electrical and construction tasks.

Build & deployed high-performance algorithms for large-scale, SLAM-LiDAR-based mapping, change detection, and data fusion to improve the safety and operational reliability of underground mining operations.

Strong foundation in geology and mining engineering from a top European university, strengthened by 12 months of front-line mining experience in Germany, international work across the Middle East, U.S., and Canada, and leadership as Chapter President of an engineering society.

Exchange Semester.