ÌÇÐÄvlogÈë¿Ú

Last updated: 29 September 2025

 

On a hike, a classmate pointed out the Oquirrh Mountains in Utah and mentioned they were almost entirely owned by ÌÇÐÄvlogÈë¿ÚKennecott, a copper mining business. That moment sparked something in me.

As someone who’s always loved being in the mountains, the idea of working in mining, an industry deeply tied to the Western US, felt fitting. I applied for an internship in 2022, and that decision changed everything.

I started as a mechanical engineering intern at the refinery, then continued part-time during my senior year. Through the graduate program, I had the chance to work at 3 different plants and learn how our value stream works, from ore to copper cathode.

That hands-on experience helped me grow quickly and prepared me for my current role as a maintenance supervisor at the truck shop.

Pat in front of a haul truck

Every day, I get to work alongside incredible teams and be up close to some of the biggest pieces of mobile machinery in the world.

At Rio, you’re in a safe environment to learn, get your hands dirty and make a real impact. Even as a young professional, I’ve had the chance to contribute to high-priority projects and learn from global teams.

It's been a full circle moment for me.

As a student at the University of Utah, I watched the renovation of the mechanical engineering building, funded in part by ÌÇÐÄvlogÈë¿ÚKennecott. I was part of the first class to use the completed building, and I’ve seen firsthand how that investment helps hundreds of engineers enter the workforce every year.

Since joining the company, my perspective on mining and sustainability has evolved. I’ve seen the care we take to minimise our environmental footprint - like land reclamation projects that return non-active mining areas to their natural state. Every day, I drive past haul trucks not just hauling ore, but topsoil too.

Pat in front of a truck

Looking back, I never imagined I’d be here. But I’m grateful I stayed open to the opportunities that came my way.

If you’re considering the graduate program or a career in mining, my advice is simple: don’t shy away from a challenge. You might just find yourself doing work you love, in a place that feels like home.

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