Mining Competence Community (MCC)
A trusted network of mining experts
The Mining Competence Community (MCC) is Brownlee Cale Mining’s initiative to share best practices, knowledge and competence development methodologies. It brings together highly experienced mining leaders with the next generation of engineers, ensuring that more than a century of lessons from modern mechanised underground mining continues to shape the future.
The MCC provides consultancy support to UK and international clients, while also offering free mentoring to young engineers who want to develop their skills and progress their careers. Contact us for more information on becoming a mentor or accessing mentorship, please contact us.
How the MCC works
The MCC team have held executive, senior management and statutory roles across mines extracting a wide range of minerals. Members maintain their professional competence through:
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Active roles in the Midlands Institute of Mining Engineers (MIMinE)
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Ongoing CPD and international project work
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Close involvement with ABMEC, the UK’s mining supply chain association
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Participation in Mining Industry Leadership Group (MILG) initiatives, including:
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UK Mining Central Engineering Forum
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UK Mining Education Forum
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Mining Qualifications Committee
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Safe Man Riding in Mines Committee
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Through these forums, we share best practice, current engineering trends, new technologies, incident learnings and industry experience, contributing to the MILG strategic goals of:
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Leadership
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Involving the workforce
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Avoiding catastrophe
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Building competence
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Creating healthier, safer workplaces
One recent example is an MCC working group on the safe use of lithium-ion battery technology in mining applications.
What the MCC Provides
Mentoring
Young engineers are aligned with MCC experts in their discipline, who provide guidance, share hands-on experience and support career planning. Each mentoring pathway is tailored to the individual, helping them build competence and one day become MCC members themselves — continuing the cycle of learning.
Networking
The MCC opens access to a wide multi-disciplinary network, supporting professional registration, introducing members to industry bodies such as MIMinE, and connecting people to opportunities and funding.
Coaching
Beyond technical expertise, the MCC develops the “softer skills” vital to career success — communication, delegation, teamwork and leadership — supported by leadership development and team culture coaches.
Assessment & Verification
The MCC supports competence verification against National Occupational Standards, breaking down the skills and knowledge required to meet performance benchmarks. Programmes are underpinned by accredited learning, CPD and integration with industry-leading Competence Management Systems (CMS) as part of a robust Safety Management System.
MCC Members
The Mining Competence Community is built on the knowledge and experience of its people. Our members are mining engineers, geologists, health and safety leaders and operational managers who have held senior roles across the global industry. Together, they share their expertise through consultancy, mentoring and coaching, ensuring the next generation of professionals benefit from decades of practical experience.
Our Partners
The MCC also brings together partner organisations who share our commitment to competence, safety and value in mining. These include mine operators, contractors, equipment suppliers, training providers and research bodies. By working alongside our individual specialists, our partners extend the capability and reach of the community, creating a trusted network that supports mining projects worldwide.
