Chris McDiarmid
Engineering Geologist
What is your role, and how long have you been at MGT?
I am an Engineering Geologist providing Geotechnical Site Support for several mine sites across Australia & have only recently started at MGT 2-3 months ago.
What sparked your interest in this field?
My background is in Civil Geotechnical Engineering. After spending the last 8-10 years working on civil projects across NZ, south pacific and Tasmania, I’ve decided to transition across to the mining industry in WA. I was always passionate about Mining and working underground, however, upon finishing my BSc majoring in Geology in 2014 there was a big downturn in the mining sector, hence ending up working in Civil Geotech.
Share a memorable project story.
Having recently entered the mining sector just two months ago, my exposure is limited, however, I’ll share a few highlights: Seeing the Kalgoorlie Super pit, several picturesque sunrise/ sunsets, learning how to check scale an ore drive, watching charge up crews charge a stope; feeling the shock waves from the blast from the site office & subsequently monitoring the blasting induced seismicity.
What is a quote that has stuck with you?
“The best geologist is he who has seen the most rocks.” (H. H. Read, 1940 – President of the British Geological Society).
What advice would you give to aspiring engineering geologists?
Seek internships & practical projects to gain hands-on experience early on in your career. Practical knowledge is invaluable in the mining industry, and it enhances your problem-solving abilities.
Who in your team would you like to give a shout-out to?
Spent my first ever mining swing at Carosue Dam with Pavel in the Goldfields region. I’d like to give a shout-out to Pav for showing me the ropes and being a good mentor.
Don’t have any pictures of me in the field yet unfortunately. To keep it geology related – here’s a picture of me last year on Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on our planet covering half of the Island of Hawaiʻi. The 2022 eruption was an episode of eruptive volcanic activity producing a 2-3m thick basaltic lava flow wiping out a big section of the mountain road.
Rapid-Fire Questions
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Heliskiing guide in Alaska.
How do you take your coffee? Or are you a tea person?
Double shot small flat white, extra hot.
What is one (or more) of your favourite hobbies?
Powerlifting & Snowboarding.
Do you have a favourite rock/rock formation/mineral/element?
Love volcanic rocks/atolls, especially basaltic and dolerite columnar stacks.
The MGT Way is engineering advice
grounded in rigorous data analysis, enabling robust design.
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