Women in Mining: Driving change across a shifting industry

While progress has been made, barriers remain. Women continue to be underrepresented across many mining functions, especially in technical and leadership roles. However, across regions and disciplines, momentum is building.

In this article, Cummins highlights three women working in different areas of the global mining industry, all bringing their own unique perspectives through their roles at the company – which prioritises diversity and inclusion as a core value.

These experiences reflect both the progress seen and the work still to be done to build a more inclusive and innovative industry.

“Technology has opened doors. We need to keep them open” – Chernise Naicker, Strategic Mining Account Manager, South Africa

After eight years in the industry, Chernise Naicker saw a shift. “With the introduction of more digital tools in mining equipment, new opportunities have opened for people with diverse skill sets, including more women,” she says.

Naicker is also a mentor through Cummins’ PrePair programme, which pairs early-career employees with senior leaders to share knowledge and expand access to career development.

“Different perspectives lead to better solutions,” she says. “Mentorship and flexible working models are key to helping more women enter and stay in mining, which in turn will lead to more diverse perspectives to addressing problems.”

“We need to rewrite the story people tell about mining” – Josette Calleja, Vice President, Industrial Sales Canada

For Josette Calleja, who oversees aftermarket sales and account management for mining customers in Canada, the mining sector is modern, essential, and ripe for redefinition.

“More women are in the room now. You’re starting to see that change across global sites,” she says. “But we still have work to do to shift the perception of mining as an outdated or inaccessible field.”

Calleja’s role involves advocating for customers while helping Cummins better understand and meet sector needs. She believes inclusive hiring practices and sustained support for women are key to building a stronger workforce.

“Mining is a critical part of the Canadian economy. It should reflect the diversity of the communities it supports.”

“Innovation and inclusion must go hand in hand” – Shanila Bhatty, Global Mining Aftermarket Leader

With more than 20 years at Cummins, Shanila Bhatty leads global aftermarket strategy for the mining segment. She has worked on projects to improve alignment between first-fit and aftermarket services, which are critical to supporting mine sites worldwide.

Over time, she’s seen both the business, and its workforce evolve. “There’s been more focus on sustainability, digital integration, and importantly, more women stepping into technical and leadership roles.”

She sees flexible work arrangements and inclusive culture as essential tools for advancing equity in mining. “When companies build environments where women can succeed, everyone benefits. Teams are stronger, and ideas go further.”

A broader commitment to inclusion

Cummins supports equity in mining through a combination of global programs and local action. The Cummins Powers Women initiative partners with non-profits and NGOs to accelerate gender equality, reaching over 1.5 million women and girls to date. The company has also joined International Women in Mining (IWIM) as a supporting partner, deepening its commitment to industry-wide progress.

Today, women make up 27.5% of Cummins’ workforce, with 40% representation at the Vice President level and above. While there is still work to do, the direction is clear.

Women are not just finding space in mining. They are helping to shape where the industry goes next.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/special-reports/25062025/women-in-mining-driving-change-across-a-shifting-industry/