Mining has long been seen as a male-dominated industry, but change is well underway. Across the sector, forward-thinking leaders, active networks, and inclusive organizations are driving progress—empowering women, breaking down barriers, and shaping a more diverse and equitable future.
One leader, Jo Graff, can really speak to these changes. As the Unit Manager-Geotechnical at Gold Fields, she’s committed to building a strong team culture and inclusive connections throughout the business.
“I take great pride in being a positive role model, developing innovative solutions to overcome challenges, and ensuring safe mining practices. Going from someone who wasn’t sure which path to take to growing a career working around the world and finally landing here in Perth, it’s been an incredible journey.”
Jo reflects on her work experiences and advocacy for breaking down barriers, paving the way for a more inclusive future, and empowering incredible women to shape the mining industry’s future.
A career that can take you around the world
Jo’s bright personality is underpinned by her interesting background. A New Zealander who grew up in New Caledonia, she is fluent in French and English.
“When I reached university, I wasn’t sure where my interests lay, so I undertook a general degree. My mother, who works at Auckland University, suggested I take geology. I ended up completing my master’s, working part-time in seismic processing, and accepting my first graduate job as a rock mechanics engineer in Perth.”
It was a fortuitous decision that led to her building experience in consulting and operational roles in open pit and underground mines and working on interesting, rewarding projects in remote locations worldwide.
“I’ve logged core in the UXO-riddled (unexploded ordinance) jungles of Laos, done core and water well drilling in the sandy Sahara desert of Mauritania, and been to mine sites in high altitudes of Tibet. I’ve also spent a lot of time in FIFO roles in WA, working alongside some amazing people and making lifelong friends.”
Jo joined Gold Fields in 2015 and continued progressing in her career, including a brief secondment in South Deep, South Africa. She has now transitioned to working in the company’s Perth office.
“Overall, my career has been full of exciting opportunities. Every time a new prospect has arisen, I’ve jumped at it without thinking twice. If you’re ever in two minds about taking an opportunity – go for it! You’ll likely surprise yourself and gain an incredible new learning experience or connection.”
The refinement process
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by setbacks or feedback – you’re not alone. Jo attests that finding your feet can involve trial and error.
“Once, my career counselor told me engineering wasn’t for girls and that civil engineering was all about sewerage design! But – nonsense aside – even throughout my career, I’ve worked with some challenging personalities, struggled with imposter syndrome.”
Jo also shares how she has adjusted to becoming a new parent, taking parental leave, and returning to work. For her, it’s been a remarkable journey that’s pushed her to become more adaptable and develop her time management skills – which, she admits, hasn’t always been her forte!
“Like many working parents, you grapple with feeling like you’re not doing enough at work and not doing enough as a parent. It’s a work in progress, but I feel like I am achieving more balance now. Witnessing my child grow and develop, alongside fulfillment from my career goals, is a source of immense pride and joy for me.”
Gold Fields fosters an inclusive, anti-discriminatory culture with company training, policies, and values that ensure people feel comfortable bringing their whole selves to work.
Her best solutions? She changed her approach to work and prioritization, gained support from an understanding, caring manager to establish flexible arrangements, and leaned on others in her various networks, including the Women in Gold Fields Operations (WIGO) program.
“Achieving the right balance isn’t easy. For me, it’s about setting clear boundaries, prioritizing what needs to be done, and being able to let go of the nice-to-haves if required. For others, I recommend ensuring you dedicate time for both work and personal activities because – let’s be honest – you’re not your best self when you’re cranky.”
Recently, Jo has committed to half-hour walks and listening to a podcast five times a week for her physical and mental health.
“Since making this a habit, I’ve discovered more energy, clarity, and creativity. It’s made me feel better about everything in general, really. I encourage others to make time for activities that matter to you; they make such a difference.”
A gold mine of leadership, mentoring, and networking
Jo reflects on the essential pillars that support women in succeeding in mining: good leadership, support, and networking.
“I’m grateful for all my mentors, particularly the VP of Geotechnical, who encouraged me to join Gold Fields in the first place. As soon as I landed in Granny Smith, it felt like family. Gold Fields has an incredible and impressive list of leaders I admire and feel privileged to work with.”
It’s something that goes both ways. Jo shares how proud she is to support and see other team members grow and develop in their careers.
“I take immense joy in my role in developing people and witnessing them achieve their career goals, whether supporting a new starter or someone growing into a leadership role they were destined for. Seeing individuals grow, learn, and prosper, knowing that I helped in some small way, gives me a sense of accomplishment.”
Jo also had the opportunity to join a global network of women, establishing the Women in Open Pit Mining group.
“It’s a truly inspiring group that connects, advocates for, and empowers women who work in technical disciplines in open pit mining. Fostering this group and building these connections has given me a renewed sense of purpose – I hope it provides this for others, too.”
Continuing the build
For Jo, success means continuing to learn, evolve, and progress in her career, maintaining meaningful relationships, and being her best parent.
She’s proud to show others it’s possible to achieve career success as a working parent, build your networks, and have fun along the way:
“Dare to embrace uncertainty and the unknown, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. That’s how we learn. You can do absolutely anything you want. If you’re laying the groundwork to succeed in your life and career, say ‘yes!’ to exciting experiences, even if they seem scary – because you never know where they’ll lead.”
