The 7th Mining 4.0 Summit on April 29-30, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, brought together industry leaders, innovators, & experts. They discussed the future of mining, digitalization, and technology. The exclusive small-scale event focused on how automation, technology, and digitalization reshape exploration, extraction, and processing operations in the Americas, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Under a structured approach, delegates engaged in interactive discussions and explored innovative solutions that would elevate their operations. Over five hours of dedicated networking time, including an extremely interactive drinks reception, created a collaborative environment for professionals to make valuable connections. This article dives into the sessions and sponsors at the forefront of this industry conference.
Sessions at the 7th Mining 4.0 Summit
The 7th Mining 4.0 Summit had an impressive line-up of sessions that covered every aspect of mining technology, digitalization, & sustainable practice. The sessions, panel sessions, and case studies showed new approaches to addressing the industry’s greatest challenges and opportunities. From electrification of the fleet to AI in action, the sessions gave us a peek at what the future of mining operations holds. Let us explore the key takeaways from the sessions:
Mining 4.0 & Change Management
Speaker: Vinay Poojary, Technology Leader, Data and Analytics, Vale
The session presented an end-to-end plan of action for adopting Mining 4.0 technologies in operations today. The speaker emphasized the importance of developing a strategic vision to place digital transformation based on business objectives, illustrating how employee alignment and training programs are key success drivers. The presentation also provided a glimpse into the approach of Vale to streamline business processes. This is in ways that would be effective in incorporating new technologies, illustrating the way change management principles can bring about adoption and ROI optimization.
Scorecards: Mine Operation Data Management for Evaluation of Mine Plan Scenarios
Speaker: Melanie Bolduc, General Manager, Technical Services & Long-Term Planning, ArcelorMittal
The session proposed a new scorecard methodology for the comparison of mine plan scenarios. The speaker showed how ArcelorMittal has developed a customized mine reconciliation solution. It optimizes planning performance by consolidating data. Furthermore, the presentation explained how their solution sums up data from different sources. This is across mining operations, fleet operations, concentrator plants, and ore stocks. It uses machine learning to predict operation indicators like concentrate mass recovery. It also enables more effective scenario feasibility communication to stakeholders.
Enabling Sustainable Mine Operations with Digital Transformation
Speaker: Bershu Nkwawir, Digital Transformation Director, Schneider Electric
The session presented a strong vision of the digital transformation of mining operations by sustainability. The speaker presented an opinion on how digital technology can support operational efficiency and environmental performance simultaneously. Moreover, the presenter took the next step and demonstrated how holistic solutions offered by Schneider Electric enable environmental success with the preservation of productivity. There was also an illustration of actual real-time digital transformation examples to achieve sustainable mine practices along the value chain.
Mining 4.0? – A Radical Change Needed to Meet the Demands of the Future
Speaker: Douglas Morrison, President & CEO, CEMI Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation
The session gave an in-depth analysis of the challenges of mining transformation. The presenter pointed out that the previous substantial transformation started before 1985. This is with the recent two decades witnessing the deterioration of productivity worldwide and growing public resistance to new mines. Additionally, the presentation further stated that electrification of the economy can also be seen in the mining sector, which produces no permanent waste but is more efficient and profitable. So, this demands not incremental but fundamental change in the mining method.
AI and Remote Sensing in Mining: Enhancing Operational Intelligence
Speaker: Dr. Kamran Esmaeili, Professor, Department of Civil & Mineral Engineering – Lassonde Institute of Mining, University of Toronto
Dr. Kamran Esmaeili delivered cutting-edge research on AI solutions in mining remote sensing. Furthermore, the speaker explained how sophisticated algorithms can take inputs from an array of sensors and turn them into actionable intelligence that can drive mining operations. Moreover, the presentation outlined a series of case studies where AI-driven remote sensing technology enhanced safety monitoring, optimized extraction processes, and facilitated improved resource estimation. As a result, it showed high potential for the technologies to aid decision-making in operations in modern-day mining.
Digital Mining Solutions: How Digital Asset Performance Management Helps Miners Drive Reliability
Speaker: Anton Freundt, Sales Director Americas, Baker Hughes; Derek Prinsloo, Senior Technical Account Manager, Baker Hughes
The session at the 7th Mining 4.0 Summit presented Baker Hughes’ digital asset performance management vision in mining. The presenters demonstrated how end-to-end solutions from their company allow the mining sector to achieve optimal equipment reliability and reduced downtime with predictive maintenance strategies. Moreover, the presenters presented case studies on how digital asset monitoring and management software have helped in detecting potential failures before they happened, planning maintenance for optimal operations, and extending equipment life cycles. This results in operational savings.
Mining’s Digital Inflection Point: AI, Vendor Data Centralization & the Future of Technology Adoption
Speaker: Lorelei Ratushniak, Founder & CEO, EOD
The session gave an in-depth analysis of the prevailing issues in the new technology application by mining companies. Furthermore, the presenter underscored that identification with AI is inevitable for mining companies seeking to maintain competitiveness. The speaker also presented fundamental barriers to technology implementation in the industry. Additionally, the presentation covered the barrier of data centralization. This outlined how various vendor data systems create decision-making chokepoints and proposed solutions for mining companies to overcome these barriers.
Electrifying the Mining Fleet: Overcoming Technical Challenges and Operational Integration for Sustainable Mining
Speaker: Chad Vinkle, General Manager, Lalor Mine, Hudbay Minerals
The session discussed Hudbay Minerals’ journey towards the electrification of its fleet. The presenter provided a glimpse into their phased rollout plan, milestones, timeliness, and addressing unforeseen delays. The speaker further described the complex process of on-site charging facility design, adjustment of grid capacity, and providing high energy demand. Moreover, he further introduced some major lessons learned while addressing integration issues, employee changeovers, and maximizing fleet performance after implementation. Additionally, the session went through scaling & future innovations, and economic considerations of machinery electrification.
Mining Vehicle Automation from Collision Avoidance to Full Autonomy
Speaker: Dr. Eric Pohlmann, Chief Executive Officer, Nerospec
Dr. Eric Pohlmann explained Nerospec’s ground-breaking vehicle automation approach in mining. Furthermore, the speaker mapped out the evolutionary path from simple collision avoidance systems to full vehicle autonomy. Technical difficulties, safety considerations, and operating benefits at each level of automation implementation were debated throughout the session. Additionally, he presented case studies that showed how productivity, safety, and cost reduction have been enhanced through automated vehicle technologies. It also gave the attendees a real-world guide to automating their strategy.
Panel Discussion: Comprehensive Strategy for Digital Transformation in Mining
Moderator: Samuel Frimpong, PhD, PEng, Professor of Mining and Explosives Engineering, UNEP Expert on Sustainable Mining and Metals, Director, Mining Industry of the Future Initiative (MIFI) Group, Director, The MERIT Center
Panelists: Melanie Bolduc, General Manager, Technical Services & Long-Term Planning, ArcelorMittal; Douglas Morrison, President & CEO, CEMI Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation; Vinay Poojary, Technology Leader – Digital and Innovation, Vale
This dynamic panel discussion addressed tactics towards the successful digital transformation of mining operations. Specialists discussed factors like seamlessly incorporating the latest technologies into existing systems and developing infrastructure designed to adapt to upcoming innovations. Moreover, they presented insights on navigating the complexity of securing funding when it comes to sustained technological advancements.
Success in Transformation Through Incremental, Purpose-Driven, Return-Focused Deliverables
Speaker: Daniel Alksnis, Mining Systems Engineer, Glencore
This session made Raglan’s achievement a case study in incremental, cumulative, and customer-led change. It addressed ways to sustain wins in an operating mining climate amidst cost-cutting. It also addressed ways of sustaining transformational buy-in through generating a good image through positive, ‘living’ products that become part of everyday business. The session also emphasized the speeding up of product delivery through investment and nurturing of in-house intellectual capital.
Fireside Chat: From Rock to Port: Driving Operational Integration Across the Iron Ore Value Chain
Speaker: Evilmar José Fonseca, Iron Ore Operations Director, Anglo American
This fireside chat discussed how to propel operational integration throughout the iron ore value chain, from rock to port. It discussed controlling complex, multi-step operations with digital supervision, allowing real-time coordination between plant, mine, and logistics. The discussion also touched on reducing bottlenecks and minimizing energy consumption through integrated operations. So, this reflects the advantages of optimized, data-based decision-making throughout the entire iron ore production and transportation process.
Stress Waves Analysis
Speaker: Brad Gabrielli, Solutions Specialist, Lakeside Process Controls
This session at the 7th Mining 4.0 Summit concentrated on stress waves analysis using practical case studies. It presented a seal problem in ball mills, a roll bearing malfunction in conveyor, and a hanger bearing fault in a thickener tank. Additionally, the presentation stressed the role of stress wave information for data-driven decision-making. It also discussed prospective advancements in condition monitoring. This is to improve equipment reliability and operational effectiveness in industrial plants.
Future-proofed Mine Planning
Speaker: Gordana Slepcev, Chief Operating Officer, Lomiko Metals
This future-proofed mine planning session placed strong emphasis on the need to truly comprehend mining operations and analyze existing performance. Furthermore, it centered around the identification of operational challenges and existing solutions, and how strategic partnerships play a part in filling the technology gaps. This session also explored how to identify and choose the appropriate technologies. It helps to optimize performance while supporting long-term sustainability and efficiency in mining activities.
The Mining Industry’s Drive Towards Zero Fatality: Advancing Automation, Robotics and Other Intelligent Systems Research
Speaker: Samuel Frimpong, PhD, PEng, Professor of Mining and Explosives Engineering, UNEP Expert on Sustainable Mining and Metals, Director, Mining Industry of the Future Initiative (MIFI) Group, Director, The MERIT Center
This session discussed the Zero Fatality quest of the mining sector and the industry’s main safety and health issues. It underscored the contribution of automation, robotics, and intelligent systems to minimizing risk. Furthermore, the main topics included ongoing research and development activities, emerging technologies, and useful training solutions. Additionally, the discussion centered on how autonomy and automation approaches are changing. This is to enable a safer, more sustainable mining environment through focused innovation and system integration.
“Pit-2-Port” – Next Step into a High-performance Production Ecosystem
Speaker: Dr. Sunny Schoone, Global Sales Expert and Portfolio Manager, Innomotics
This session centered on developing “Pit-2-Port” strategies to create a high-performance production system. Furthermore, it delved into the creation of an integrated digital ecosystem that facilitates transparency and performance excellence throughout the mining value chain. Moreover, some of the main themes were holistic material flow optimization, remote operation center roles, and order-to-produce process alignment. The discussion emphasized how combined systems can facilitate efficiency, responsiveness, and value from extraction through final delivery.
The Digitalization Journey to Autonomous Operations in Underground Mining: AngloGold Ashanti Cuiabá Mine Case
Speaker: Lucas Rosa, Systems & Automation Engineer, AngloGold Ashanti
This session outlined the digitalization process at the AngloGold Ashanti Cuiabá Underground Mine, highlighting the progression from manual to autonomous operations. It covered the implementation of underground people tracking for real-time observation, enhancing compliance and safety. Furthermore, it bridged automation with autonomous tele-remote systems, decreasing human presence in high-risk zones. It also achieved operational gains through data-enabled optimization and automation, with the session ending on future developments scheduled for the Cuiabá operation.
Exploiting the Benefits of Semi-Autonomous and Fully Autonomous Machinery
Speaker: Dr. Cristián Carrasco, Vice President Operations, HPQ North America, Sibelco Group
Dr. Cristián Carrasco provided an operational analysis of the autonomous deployment of equipment in mining operations. The speaker distinguished between the fully autonomous and semi-autonomous systems, explaining the particular benefits and limitations of each approach. The presentation also emphasized Sibelco’s experience with the application of these technologies. It includes productivity increase, safety enhancement, and return on investment rates. Additionally, the speaker provided recommendations for selecting suitable levels of autonomy. This depends on operating conditions and readiness aspects.
Who Were The Sponsors For The 7th Mining 4.0 Summit?
The 7th Mining 4.0 Summit featured strategic partnerships with leading technology and solution providers in the mining sector. Their participation enriched the learning content of the summit and provided participants with hands-on exposure to implementation methodologies. In this section, we look at these sponsors in detail:
Lakeside – Silver Sponsor
Lakeside is a specialist in mining asset management with cutting-edge technological solutions. Their area of expertise spans critical mining elements such as machinery, conveyors, hoists, and ore measuring assets. Moreover, they concentrate on maximizing asset availability, reducing operation expense, and enhancing security procedures. This is through the extraction of the right information from conventional assets.
Their stress waves analysis session contributed value through the presentation of real-life case studies. It showed practical uses of condition monitoring technologies. This enabled the audience to realize how data-driven decision-making could enhance mining operations and maintenance plans.
Nerospec SK – Bronze Sponsor
Nerospec SK provides end-to-end automation solutions to revolutionize mining productivity and safety. Their goal is to make automation the most valuable asset for future miners. The company offers tailored solutions in vehicle autonomy, collision avoidance, fleet data monitoring, and digital networks. Additionally, with more than 300 experts worldwide, they assist projects from the initial phase to delivery, with automation teams in Germany and product development in Johannesburg.
Their presentation on mining truck automation provided value by demonstrating the evolution and implementation potential of automation technologies. This is ranging from simple collision avoidance to advanced autonomous systems.
Innomotics – Bronze Sponsor
Innomotics introduces more than 150 years of engineering know-how to the world of mining. It offers solutions in excavation, transport, processing, and maintenance. Furthermore, they integrate automation, drive technology, and energy management to optimize operational efficiency throughout the value chain. It comes with a vision to forge a greener, more digital, and reliable future for mining.
Their “Pit-2-Port” session enriched participants by exposing them to high-performing production ecosystem ideas. This also enables them to comprehend how digital integration can drive the whole material value chain to its optimal performance and enhance operational excellence.
Baker Hughes – Bronze Sponsor
Baker Hughes and its Cordant Solutions enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of mining via digital connection and advanced analysis. Its platform ensures optimized operation via minimized downtime as well as maximized asset health. This is through real-time monitoring as well as through preventive maintenance functionalities. It enable enterprises to attain operating perfection through insight-generated data.
Additionally, their presentation on digital mining solutions at the 7th Mining 4.0 Summit provided value by illustrating how Digital Asset Performance Management can propel reliability. It gave participants hands-on knowledge on how to implement effective maintenance practices and optimize operations.
Schneider Electric – Presenting Partner
Schneider Electric is at the forefront of industrial technology with proficiency in electrification, automation, and digitization of smart industries. Furthermore, its end-to-end integrated AI-based Industrial IoT solutions offer digital twins via connected products, automation, software, and services. Moreover, Schneider Electric emphasizes customer proximity, diversity, and sustainability while transforming the industrial world with end-to-end technology solutions.
Their presentation contributed value by demonstrating how digital transformation makes sustainable mine operations possible. So, this session offered practical advice on how to balance profitability with sustainability.
EOD Inc. – Presenting Partner
EOD Inc. is a turnkey corporate and business development company. It focuses on high-value startups and SMEs in the mining industry. Furthermore, they assist in growing market share and proving viability for AI/ML, robotics, and IoT technology startups. Moreover, their method assists leadership teams with limited internal capacity to accelerate sales pipelines and develop compelling value propositions.
Their presentation contributed by talking about mining’s digital turning point. It made it easier for attendees to comprehend the opportunities and challenges in implementing AI and also centralizing data in mining operations.
Rockwell Automation – Exhibiting Partner
Rockwell Automation is a global leader in industrial automation. It offers advanced technologies for digital transformation across manufacturing industries. Furthermore, as the brand leader with Allen-Bradley and FactoryTalk solutions, they assist organizations in improving business operations. This is through integrated information and control systems with emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and customer outcomes.
Additionally, as an exhibition partner, they contributed by exhibiting their industrial automation solutions so attendees could see firsthand how their technologies can make processes smarter, more integrated mining operations.
To Sum Up
The 7th Mining 4.0 Summit offered rich value through rigorous analysis of digitalization of the mining sector, automation, and technological development. Well-run sessions and impactful sponsors facilitated a fertile learning ground where business leaders could share and learn effective solutions to their most pressing operating challenges. By bringing together leading minds in the entire mining value chain, the summit also facilitated collaboration and information exchange needed to drive the industry. Mining experts who wish to stay one step ahead should prioritize attendance at the future sustainability events.
