ENGINEERS moving up and through the ranks of the mining and resources sector often find themselves developing niche skills on the job as they master key aspects of their profession.
Ensuring further promotion and opportunity though can require the development of a broader set of skills, according to Institute of International Research (IIR).
Financial management proficiency, for example, is a bedrock skill - vital to the success of any ambitious executive. Risk management is another. Busy lives often preclude the opportunity to leave the office and develop these skills.
The new IIR Executive Development distance learning programs provide professionals in the mining and resources sector with opportunities to develop financial and risk management skills, without leaving home or the office.
IIR’s programs consist of two courses, one in financial management (including communication and negotiation management) and one in risk management.
Each course consists of a series of 10 modules sent by post and/or online to participants over a period of 2-4 months.
Modules are written by leading academics and industry experts. The modules focus on theoretical and practical information that can be readily used in the workplace.
The modules also contain references to literature and relevant websites, providing participants with additional opportunities to unlock a wealth of material in a pragmatic and manageable way.
The successful execution of two optional assessments will lead to a certificate of completion.
Participants can expect to spend between 5-10 hours learning from each module (on average).
Tutorial support is available throughout the program. Partipants may also have the opportunity to attend a face-to-face seminar to discuss elements of the program in more depth.
In addition, and concurrently, the course will be offered via IIR’s e-learning program, providing participants with an opportunity for further online interaction with the course writers and fellow participants.