In an effort to better serve the global minerals industry and their members, the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME) has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy; the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum; and the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy to establish the Global Mineral Professionals Alliance (GMPA).

“By entering into this MoU, the participating societies have guaranteed access to education, public information, business networking and technical exchange opportunities for mining and minerals industry professionals worldwide,” said SME Executive Director David Kanagy. “The mutually beneficial relationship of the GMPA partners will promote the minerals industry and advance the professional development of members across a wide range of disciplines and areas of expertise.”

‘Visiting Member’ status for one year will be offered to individuals who are members of one of the participating organisations and are living and working in a host society’s region. Services and benefits will include technical workshops and meetings, access to print and online libraries, print and online publications and host member registration rates for conferences. Over time, the GMPA intends to invite all professional and technical mining organizations from around the world to consider membership in the alliance.