What name are you known by and why (nickname)?

A fun nickname that I have is Casserole. When people ask me if Cassie is short for anything (it's not), I like to joke that it's short for Casserole.

Tell us about your role and how you became interested in engineering.

I am part of a two-year rotational program that includes four different rotations. I've completed two rotations with New Product Development at ESCO, one rotation with Tooling & Gaging at ESCO, and I am on my final rotation with Weir Additive Manufacturing Solutions. I hope return to ESCO as a nuanced design engineer, equipped with all the knowledge and technical skills gained from my past project experiences.

I knew engineering was a great fit for me because as a child I was endlessly curious about how things were made or how they worked. I was quite fond of shows like MythBusters and How It's Made and infinitely attracted to the varied opportunities that a mechanical engineering degree could bring. The variety of experiences that the rotational program promised is what attracted me to joining Weir.

What’s the most exciting/innovative project you’ve worked on?

The project I’m working on at the moment is the most interest so far. It involves wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) which gives more design freedom than traditional manufacturing processes like machining or casting. However, what sets WAAM apart is its capability to 3D print large structures at a high deposition rate. It's been extremely exciting to learn how to program and operate a welding robot capable of automatic weld deposition.

How will innovation contribute to more sustainable mining?

Innovating products that have a lower impact on the environment will be key to more sustainable mining. From a Weir perspective, new ground engaging tools (GET) systems one of those products that are being designed to last longer, hold more capacity, and be more streamlined to increase efficiency and reduce emissions.

What would you say to other young people who may be considering a career in engineering?

Don’t let yourself be intimidated from pursuing engineering! Although it can be discouraging to see an unbalanced gender ratio, it is getting better and better each year because of the women who are adamant in chasing their ambitions.

What is your greatest achievement/most exciting thing you’ve done outside of work?

I've seen a few wonders of the world including the Colosseum, the Great Wall of China, and the Great Pyramid of Giza.