Mikayla Ward makes her mark at MACA

Mikayla Ward’s journey to becoming a Mining Supervisor at MACA is a story of persistence, self-discovery, and embracing new challenges. With over five years’ experience in the mining industry, two and a half of these with MACA, she has built a career defined by resilience and a commitment to growth.

Before entering mining, Mikayla explored several career paths, including nursing, midwifery, hairdressing, and international air travel. While each experience taught her valuable lessons, but she was still looking for the mix of challenge and fulfillment that best suited her. That search led to mining, where she began as a dump truck operator trainee.

Now a Mining Supervisor, Mikayla finds the greatest satisfaction in supporting the growth of others. Guiding her team, providing mentorship, and watching them develop new skills brings her as much fulfillment as achieving her own professional milestones. Creating an environment where people feel supported and motivated to give their best is central to her approach.

Throughout her career, Mikayla has honed the key skills that underpin her success. Stepping into a supervisory role challenged her to strengthen her ability to manage change and to build trust with colleagues across the team. Being a young woman in a male-dominated industry hasn’t been without challenges, especially when facing scepticism from more experienced operators. She overcame this by demonstrating competence, communicating clearly, fostering strong relationships, and maintaining professionalism to earn respect and establish a positive team culture.

Mikayla’s advice for women considering a career in mining is rooted in her own experience. “Believe in yourself, embrace continuous learning, and seek mentorship.”

She encourages women to build networks, face challenges with resilience, and advocate for themselves, all the while contributing to a more inclusive industry for future generations.

Through her story, Mikayla exemplifies what it means to make your mark, by leading with confidence, growing through challenges, and paving the way for others to thrive.