With many other industries already embracing the digital revolution, now is the time for the mineral extractives sector to realize the full potential of digital and automation technologies. Whether it’s using drones, pioneering 5G machine-control technology or cloud-based remote monitoring systems, digitalization is changing the way people work in the quarrying industry. There is no doubt that new technological innovations such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) can help aggregate producers deliver greater levels of business and operational efficiency, safer working practices and enhanced collaborative working. Clearly, digitalization is no longer a choice, but an imperative.

Hillhead Digital will bring high-profile industry speakers and online delegates together remotely to learn about new technologies, share innovative ideas and begin to understand how digitalization and automation will transform the sector for decades to come.

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As the construction sector works towards becoming a net-zero carbon industry, the demand for more environmentally friendly processes and building products that enhance the sustainability of new buildings and infrastructure is increasing. The mineral products industry will play a pivotal role in helping to combat climate change and decarbonizing construction to ensure the UK meets its net-zero target by 2050. Renewable energy, electrification, hybrid technology, hydrogen power, and CCUS (carbon capture, utilization, and storage) will all have a part to play.

Through a programme of seminars and presentations, Hillhead Digital will provide an opportunity for delegates to gain a better understanding of the climate-related issues and challenges facing the industry, and to learn about the newest technological advances and product innovations, energy-saving solutions and carbon-reduction programmes to achieve a sustainable future.

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The delivery of major infrastructure and construction projects will be crucial to the UK’s social and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The current crisis is shining a spotlight on the essential role that mineral products and heavy building materials will play in repairing Britain’s economy and employment prospects. From HS2 and major highway schemes, to repairing local roads and building new homes, schools, hospitals and flood defences, innovation and collaboration will be key to meeting both current and future infrastructure challenges as the UK looks to ‘build back better’.

Exploring the key issues and opportunities for aggregate, asphalt and concrete suppliers in responding to the UK’s infrastructure needs, Hillhead Digital will examine the need for collaborative working within the supply chain to ensure successful project delivery, as well as the use of emerging technologies to improve processes and drive up productivity.

Creating Future Leaders: Building Skills for the Future

The minerals industry sector is facing a wide range of challenges in both the short, medium, and long term. The impacts of the Covid 19 pandemic, Brexit plus the wider issues of sustainability and the digital revolution mean the industry is facing changes at a pace previously unseen. The challenges also provide opportunities for the sector as it is critical in supporting the wider economy on delivering a sustainable future for society.

It is the people within the sector that will drive and deliver this change, from our senior leaders to the people working on the ground. It is critical they have the knowledge, skills, and competence to help deliver that future in a healthy and sustainable way.

The Institute of Quarrying has supported the industry and its members for over 100 years in adapting to change and is continuing to support future generations.