The Business of Underground Coal Mining course is targeting open cut mine planners, financiers, line management and other mining paraprofessionals who interact with underground coal mines at a business, technical or operational level.

Runge said the course was written as a result of industry demand.

“As open cut operations reach their economic limits, many will plan to transition to underground operations in the future,” Runge underground coal manager Mike Rowlands said.

“Staff at these open cut operations who do not have an underground background will find the course particularly useful as it will help them to understand the different key drivers behind underground versus open cut coal businesses.”

He added the course would help lay a solid foundation of technical and business skills for emerging and junior engineers along with planning staff.

The course will be delivered regularly at a variety of international venues.

Runge also said the course met the needs of graduates and technical staff who might be considering a career in the underground sector.