EP.71 Gerard Wood on Preventing Breakdowns Through Building Culture, Good Foundations, and Transforming Work Fronts – Part One

Good foundations are the most important part of any mining operation – that’s a statement that’s hard to argue against. In this episode, we chat to expert Gerard Wood about how his simple, human-first process keeps machines running for mines all over the world. 

Each Wednesday, join me, Peter Finn, managing director of FACE Contracting, as I navigate the ups and downs of the mining industry with forward-thinking professionals from all walks of life. If you’re involved in the mining industry in any way – whether you’re a lifer or a high-school student looking to make the leap – Full Production is the podcast for you. 

Gerard Wood is Managing Director of Bluefield Asset Management and the author of Simplifying Mining Maintenance. He has plenty of value to add to any mining operation with more than 30 years in the industry.  

His book outlines two simple models for reliable maintenance management, as well as practical solutions to operational stressors, such as downtime events, increased scheduled downtime, cost concerns, people problems, and when transitioning plans from paper to reality doesn’t go as expected. 

We also discussed: 

  • Gerard’s journey, from growing up in Moranbah to a global career 
  • Why Gerard decided to write a book 
  • The importance of maintenance to the overall mining operation 
  • The perception of mining for new entrants to the industry 
  • Taking care in your job and finding fulfilment 
  • What makes good leadership in mining operations 
  • Having a career in mining and making family life work 
  • Transforming work fronts through company culture 
  • The importance of following through – and being honest when you can’t 
  • Working reactively vs. proactively 

Links: 

Simplifying Mining Maintenance – Amazon 

Simplifying Mining Maintenance – LinkedIn 

Bluefield Asset Management – Website 

Bluefield Asset Management – Facebook 

Bluefield Asset Management – LinkedIn 

LinkedIn Profile 

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